Solar panel output trials

National Semiconductor and SunEdison, a solar energy services provider, have begun field trials to optimise the energy output of solar arrays.

SunEdison initiated trials in California using National Semiconductor's SolarMagic power optimisers that enable individual solar panels to maximise energy produced, independent of performance of other panels in an array. Individual panels can often underperform due to shade, debris, panel mismatch or ageing.

SunEdison delivers solar energy services by providing a new way to engage in solar energy. Its users pay only for the energy produced by its solar power plants. In March 2008, the company surpassed 100 GWh of delivered energy, marking a new milestone for solar energy services in North America.