Ampt announced the deployment of its string optimizers to power a 65-MW solar project located within the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) region. The PV power plant includes a DC-coupled 25-MW / 100-MWh (4-hour) battery storage system and uses Ampt string optimizers to deliver lower-cost power at a stable voltage to support critical facilities, including large AI data center operations.
The hybrid solar + storage system enables energy firming and shifting, ensuring renewable power availability despite the intermittency of solar generation. The system itself leverages machine learning to assess optimal timing and strategies for grid interaction. Through a PPA with multiple off-takers, the power plant is projected to generate tens of millions of dollars for the local economy. In doing so, it will also help advance California’s goal of achieving 100% carbon-free energy by 2045.
Ampt String Optimizers, which are advanced DC/DC converters that enable the full available PV power to be delivered at a fixed voltage, help meet the stringent power requirements of AI data centers, where even millisecond fluctuations during AI training can impact performance. By stabilizing voltage at the point of generation, Ampt ensures a steady supply to both the inverter and battery system, which in turn provides firm, reliable power to offtakers. Additionally, Ampt optimizers maximize solar output by mitigating losses from the inherent variability of large-scale PV systems caused by factors like cloud cover, soiling and changes in temperature.
“By operating on the DC side, Ampt’s technology enhances overall efficiency while lowering total system costs to make renewable energy a viable and resilient option for high-performance computing environments,” said Mary Adam, VP of Global Sales at Ampt. “We look forward to continuing to work side-by-side with our customers and partners to optimize their renewable power plants and infrastructure supporting these data centers.”
News item from Ampt
