Sungrow, a global leader in inverter and energy storage technology, introduced its latest innovation—the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter—at the Global Renewable Energy Summit 2025. Tailored for utility-scale applications, this new inverter brings a host of advanced features including scalable modular design (800kW to 9.6MW), uncompromised performance up to 52°C, AI-powered diagnostics, and breakthrough grid-forming functionality, meeting the increasing demand for high-performance, reliable energy solutions.

Small Module, Mega Impact

Building on the success of its predecessor, the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter offers enhanced scalability and flexibility. Each module delivers 800kW, and up to 12 units can be connected in parallel—scaling up to 9.6MW. This modular setup allows developers to tailor solutions for a wide range of utility-scale project needs.

The design also includes a split-module architecture that isolates vital components like IGBTs and capacitors in the upper section of the inverter. This setup allows for rapid onsite replacement, reducing O&M times to just one hour per module—streamlining maintenance and minimizing downtime. With AI-based fault detection, the system delivers real-time issue identification, minimizing manual inspections and repair delays, which helps optimize system uptime and reduce reliance on human labor.

Enhanced Durability in Harsh Conditions

Engineered for extreme conditions such as the intense heat of the Middle East, the 1+X 2.0 incorporates high-power-density semiconductors, a high-efficiency heat exchanger, and a dual-cycle cooling system to effectively manage thermal loads and maintain top performance without derating—up to 52°C. Its IP66-rated sealed enclosure and self-cleaning air ducts ensure internal components are protected from dust, water, and temperature extremes, further enhancing system reliability and longevity.

Holistic AI-Driven DC-Side Safety Management System: Eliminating Fire Risks

Recognizing that the majority of PV faults occur on the DC side, Sungrow’s latest inverter introduces a robust, AI-powered DC-side safety management system:

• Dual DC Arc Protection System
  When an arc fault is detected, the combiner box reliably disconnects the faulty circuit within 40 milliseconds, blocking fire risks at the source. Simultaneously, via inverter cluster control technology, other combiner boxes in the same block are synchronously shut down in tandem to prevent any fault contribution.
• Terminal Overheating Protection System
  A high-precision temperature sensor network is deployed to monitor inverter terminal temperatures in real-time. Upon detecting abnormal temperatures, the corresponding circuit is immediately disconnected, eliminating fire risks caused by poor electrical contact.

Pioneering Grid-Forming Technology

Incorporating Sungrow’s solar grid-forming technology, the new inverter provides robust support for grid stability even in fluctuating conditions. It offers inertia support in just 5 milliseconds, handles transient overvoltages up to 1.8 times the rated value, and adapts automatically to both weak and strong grids.

This grid-forming feature enables the inverter to support microgrid formation during construction or commissioning, reducing reliance on diesel generators, accelerating grid integration, and maximizing early-stage energy generation. Real-world applications, such as a 1GW project in the Middle East, showcased a 30-day early grid connection, generating $2.9 million in additional revenue and lowering the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).

The system is also compatible with both DC- and AC-coupled solar-plus-storage configurations, with the DC-coupled solution proving more cost-efficient—offering up to 10% reduction in capital investment and 5% higher system efficiency over traditional setups. With 100% grid-forming capability on the AC side, the solution acts as a fully integrated solar-plus-storage generator.

Furthermore, the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter enables a significant CAPEX and OPEX slash by allowing compliance with more PV modules per string design, MPLC advanced communication technology, larger block designs, intelligent Medium Voltage disconnection, and more flexible O&M. Due to these functions, a 1GW solar plant can have cost savings of approximately 7.41 million USD.

Lee Zhang, Vice President at Sungrow, emphasized that the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter marks a significant turning point for the utility-scale solar sector. He noted that the solution enables customers to overcome geographical challenges—from deserts to mountainous regions—while achieving exceptional returns on investment. Zhang highlighted Sungrow’s commitment to advancing the global energy transition through solutions that seamlessly blend innovation with sustainability.