Themost attended solar exhibition in the U.S., InterSolar North America, touch down last week in the Bay Area. With solar still being one of Fremont’s most prominent sectors, several local companies were showing off the latest advancements in this space. Less dominant was the presence of solar panel or module makers. Instead, there was an increased emphasis on high-value optimization technology in the balance of systems. For those wondering what this means, it’s everything from system inverters to tracking mechanics.

Here is just a sampling of the Fremont-based innovation that was on display.

NEXTracker offers a significant breakthrough in horizontal tracking, with lower costs, better performance, and more flexibility for solar power plants of all sizes.

SolarEdge system consists of power optimizers, inverters, and a cloud-based monitoring platform that addresses a broad range of solar market segments, from residential solar installations to commercial and small utility-scale solar installations.

 

Delta Products provides best-in-class, high efficiency solar and wind energy systems and products, including PV inverters and converters for wind turbines. Its PV inverter delivers the world’s highest power efficiency of up to 98.7 percent.

What else is percolating in the solar industry? Other themes included advocating for the extension of the solar investment tax credit, promoting streamlined permitting, and protecting the concept of true net metering. All of these themes signal a rapidly maturing industry and reassurance that solar is here to stay.