The path to 2000V systems in utility-scale renewable energy projects
The path to 2000V systems in utility-scale renewable energy projects
Driving innovation together: The path to 2000V systems in utility-scale renewable energy projects
The renewable energy landscape is evolving faster than ever, driven by the industry’s relentless pursuit of more efficient, cost-effective solutions. In particular, developers, EPCs, and OEMs continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in utility-scale projects. This innovative spirit is advancing the industry toward higher voltage systems, and we're proud to support this transformation.
In the past few years, the industry has progressed rapidly from 600V to 1000V DC systems in utility-scale solar installations. By 2021, over 70% of utility-scale solar PV plants were operating above 1000V DC, and by 2031, adoption is expected to reach 95% of utility-scale projects. Now, as the industry sets its sights on 1500V systems, this next evolution promises to unlock even greater efficiencies and cost reductions.
This proven track record has encouraged developers and EPCs to look toward 2000V as the next frontier for optimizing performance and reducing costs. With established success in past voltage transitions and an industry-wide push for greater efficiency, the path to 2000V systems promises to deliver the next wave of cost and performance improvements in utility-scale solar.
Benefits of 2000V systems: unlocking efficiency and cost savings
The shift to higher voltage systems has consistently demonstrated compelling benefits, including infrastructure savings, reduced installation costs, and end-to-end efficiency gains. For example, a 1500V system can support up to 33 modules per string compared to just 22 modules in a 1000V system. This simplified architecture delivers remarkable cost reductions: 1500V projects with central inverters typically achieve up to 35% savings on arrays in parallel compared to similar 1000V systems.
The physics of higher voltage systems creates additional opportunities for reduced components. By reducing current while maintaining power output, systems use smaller gauge cables throughout the installation. These efficiency gains extend across the entire electrical balance of system (EBOS), reducing the number of combiner boxes, wiring runs, trenching requirements, and string connections throughout the installation. For example, a 10MW plant at 1500V could eliminate hundreds of strings and dozens of combiners, resulting in substantial cost savings.
The shift to 2000V systems promises to build on these advantages. From a cost perspective, this simplified EBOS design substantially reduces both DC cabling and the size, complexity, and number of components required while significantly decreasing system losses to improve energy production. These improvements, combined with reduced capital expenditure (CapEx) and enhanced system performance over the project lifetime, result in meaningful reductions in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). For developers and EPCs, this means an opportunity to achieve more with less, enhancing competitiveness in a fast-evolving market.
Challenges and how we overcome them together
While the benefits are compelling, the transition to 2000V systems presents technical challenges. ABB works closely with partners to address these hurdles, particularly in developing components that maintain partial discharge performance at higher voltages while meeting stringent safety requirements. Our engineers have developed innovative solutions for critical components like disconnect switches that achieve the necessary creepage distances while maintaining compact form factors suitable for field installation.
ABB offers a complete range of high-performance devices designed specifically to support high-voltage applications, including circuit breakers, switch-disconnectors, fuses and fuse holders, and insulation monitoring relays. This enables developers and EPCs to transition to higher voltages with confidence, ensuring compatibility and reliability through the EBOS.
Navigating the transition
Success with 2000V systems starts with early planning and supplier engagement. Proactive collaboration helps ensure availability of optimized components and allows time to navigate evolving certification requirements.
The groundwork for 2000V technology is already in place. UL and IEC have made significant progress in adapting standards for higher voltage systems, with UL62109-1 now including provisions for 2000V DC systems. Panel manufacturers have also established standards for 2000V DC modules, ensuring compatibility and safety across the system. These developments show how standards and technology are evolving together to support the industry's transition.
ABB is actively helping to shape these standards and ensure our solutions remain compliant and future-ready. By engaging early in the planning process, developers and EPCs can align their project timelines with these certification updates, minimizing potential delays.
A shared commitment to progress
To our partners who continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in renewable energy: We see your commitment to innovation. The transition to 2000V systems represents another step forward in our shared mission to create more efficient, sustainable energy solutions. We're excited to continue supporting your vision with technology that's engineered to outrun today's challenges.
February 2025 Brian Nelson
ABB U.S. Electrification — Renewables Segment Leader
