by MECASOLAR | Nov 22, 2024 | PRESS RELEASE
Madrid, Spain (November 22, 2024): MECASOLAR, in collaboration with Tigo Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: TYGO), a leading provider of intelligent solar and energy software solutions, is excited to announce the launch of an innovative solar solution specifically designed for critical infrastructure. Combining MECASOLAR’s state-of-the-art fixed structure MECAFIX and solar tracker MECATRACKER with cutting-edge Rapid Shutdown (RSD) technology from Tigo, this solution sets a new standard in safety and operational reliability for high-priority installations.
Addressing the Unique Needs of Critical Infrastructure
This new offering is tailored to meet the demanding requirements of critical facilities such as airports, mines, and hospitals, where operational continuity is essential. The system’s integrated module-level RSD functionality complies with stringent fire safety standards, delivering enhanced protection in emergency situations and ensuring uninterrupted service.
Key Features and Benefits
1. Enhanced Safety for Critical Operations
With integrated Rapid Shutdown technology, the system provides immediate deactivation during emergencies. This not only meets rigorous fire safety standards but also creates a safer environment for emergency responders while protecting vital assets.
2. Reliable Operational Continuity
Designed for resilience, the system minimizes downtime and ensures seamless operation, making it an ideal choice for facilities that require uninterrupted performance under diverse conditions.
“Our work with MECASOLAR shows how our Rapid Shutdown technology can provide the safety and reliability that essential facilities need,” said Jing Tian, chief growth officer at Tigo Energy. “By focusing on high-priority places like hospitals and airports, we’re helping advance proven solar solutions that keep both people and important operations safe.”
About MECASOLAR
Founded in 2005, MECASOLAR is a leader in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of MECATRACKERS and MECAFIX systems paired with integrated solutions. Our mission is to create simple, robust, and reliable solar products that reduce labor costs while increasing financial yield for our clients.
With nearly 20 years of experience, MECASOLAR combines advanced technology, a global presence, and a client-focused approach to build lasting partnerships. By utilizing COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) components, MECASOLAR delivers solutions with reduced risk and enhanced accuracy in financial modeling.
At MECASOLAR, we embrace the power of simplicity. Our commitment to developing straightforward, durable, and reliable solar trackers is a strategic choice that saves time, lowers costs, and reduces risks for our customers, ensuring long-term success.
About Tigo Energy
Founded in 2007, Tigo Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: TYGO) is a worldwide leader in the development and provider of smart hardware and software solutions that enhance safety, increase energy yield, and lower operating costs of residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar systems. Tigo combines its Flex MLPE (Module Level Power Electronics) and solar optimizer technology with intelligent, cloud-based software capabilities for advanced energy monitoring and control. Tigo MLPE products maximize performance, enable real-time energy monitoring, and provide code-required rapid shutdown at the module level. The company also develops and manufactures products such as inverters and battery storage systems for the residential solar-plus-storage market. For more information, please visit www.tigoenergy.com.
by MECASOLAR | Oct 24, 2024 | ARTICLE
Almost all leading tracker companies use patented parts, giving them control over the manufacturing and supply of critical components. This exposes operators and investors to significant financial risks.
One key risk is the absence of competition in the post-warranty period for replacement parts. Customers are often left at the mercy of tracker suppliers, leading to unpredictable costs that can undermine financial models. Moreover, reliance on a single supplier makes projects vulnerable to supply chain failures. If the supplier faces production constraints or stops manufacturing a necessary part, it can result in the affected components being forced to operate as fixed structures, reducing energy yield, or necessitating costly retrofits.
Another issue with patented parts is the need for specialised equipment during installation, which often must be sourced directly from the tracker supplier. We have observed that this specialised equipment can add approximately 150k USD in costs for a 50 MWp project. These expenses are typically non-recoverable, potentially luring customers into a ‘sunk cost fallacy’—tempting them to stick with the supplier to justify previous expenditures. Additionally, the use of specialised installation equipment often requires increased man hours for both training and the actual installation process. In a post-pandemic world, where labour costs have risen, these added expenses can become particularly burdensome, further escalating the overall costs of the project.
MECASOLAR’s Approach: Commercial Parts and Standard Tools for Predictable Lifecycle Costs
In contrast, MECASOLAR has opted for a more flexible and cost-effective approach by utilising COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) components. This strategy provides several clear advantages: it reduces financial risk and ensures that the costs associated with the project’s lifecycle are more predictable. Additionally, MECASOLAR’s approach leverages standard, commercially available tools and equipment for installation, which significantly reduces initial capital expenditures and eliminates the need for costly, specialised tools. This also minimizes labour costs related to specialised training, making the installation process more efficient and cost-effective, especially in the current economic climate.
This approach is used in some other technological sectors and mirrors the philosophy behind open-source software, which prioritises accessibility, transparency, and flexibility. Both approaches minimise dependence on a single source, promoting long-term predictability and cost control.
Industries like rocket manufacturing, with companies such as SpaceX and Rocket Lab, have adopted similar practices, incorporating commercially available components to improve reliability and manage costs.
Key Strengths of MECASOLAR’s COTS-Based Approach:
- Availability of Spare Parts: Operators can source spare parts from multiple suppliers after the warranty period by utilising standardised components, which reduces the risk of price inflation and supply shortages. This leads to more competitive pricing and shorter lead times.
- Proven Reliability: The use of COTS components, which are mass-produced and tested across industries, ensures reliable performance, and reduces the chances of system failures.
- Cost Predictiveness: Commercial parts have more transparent repair and maintenance costs, enabling more accurate financial projections throughout the system’s lifecycle, making solar projects more attractive to investors.
- Market-Driven Pricing: Since the parts are not controlled by a single manufacturer, prices are driven by market forces, preventing operators from being subjected to monopolistic pricing.
- Diversification of Risks: By sourcing commercial parts from a wider supply chain, MECASOLAR reduces the risk of supplier failure, enhancing system reliability and lowering the overall cost of ownership.
- Standard Tools and Equipment Lowering Labour Costs: Unlike patented parts, MECASOLAR’s use of commercial components allows installation with standard tools and equipment, reducing initial costs and avoiding the need for specialised training. This not only lowers upfront expenses but also minimises labour costs, as fewer man hours are needed for both training and installation. This increased efficiency becomes especially significant in the context of rising post-pandemic labour costs.
- Longer System Lifespan: Commercially available parts are often backward-compatible, meaning newer, more efficient components can be integrated into existing systems without being tied to proprietary designs, optimising system performance over time.
Conclusion: Commercial Parts and Standard Tools Minimise Economic Risk
In the solar energy sector, predictability and cost-efficiency are vital. Proprietary parts introduce uncertainties that can disrupt financial models. MECASOLAR’s philosophy of using commercial parts and standard tools mitigates these risks by ensuring that all aspects of the system’s lifecycle are governed by open market prices and readily available equipment. This approach offers greater accuracy in modelling long-term costs, ultimately leading to more profitable projects.
by MECASOLAR | Jun 27, 2024 | PRESS RELEASE
Manila, Philippines – 27th June 2024 – JinkoSolar, the global leading PV and ESS supplier recently announced a strategic commercial partnership with MECASOLAR, a leading manufacturer of trackers, structures, and integrated supply solutions. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in expanding utility project opportunities across Southeast Asia.
The agreement was finalized during a productive meeting between the executive teams of Jinko Solar and MECASOLAR in Manila, Philippines. By combining the strengths of both companies, this partnership aims to enhance their market presence in the region, delivering superior value to clients through innovative and reliable solar solutions.
Anita Li, General Manager at JinkoSolar APAC, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this strategic partnership with MECASOLAR. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our efforts to expand our footprint in the Southeast Asian utility project sector. With MECASOLAR’s expertise in manufacturing trackers, structures, and integrated supply solutions, combined with Jinko Solar’s industry-leading capabilities, we are well-positioned to capture new opportunities and deliver exceptional value to our clients. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to driving innovation and growth in the renewable energy landscape.”
Mark Randall, Chairman of MECASOLAR, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the long-standing association between the companies’ affiliate entities. He noted, “Jinko has rightfully earned its place as the leading brand in the industry. MECASOLAR is poised for strategic developments and further growth, marking a significant chapter in our nearly 20-year history. We are confident that this partnership will substantially elevate the value we offer to our clients and partners.”
This strategic alliance is set to propel both companies toward new heights in the renewable energy sector, fostering sustainable growth and development across Southeast Asia.
