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Today on the Clean Power Hour, host Tim Montague sits down with Joe Ross, Associate Director of National Accounts and Channel Sales at CPS America, to discuss the evolution of power electronics, detailing the shift from central inverters to the more efficient and scalable string inverters. He explains why string inverters are revolutionizing commercial and utility-scale solar projects, offering greater reliability, easier maintenance, and better long-term financial performance.
But it’s not just about technology—Joe also shares his thoughts on mentorship, leadership, and the future of solar careers, emphasizing the importance of attracting new talent to the clean energy sector.
We also delved into key industry events and gatherings, including RE+ Boston on February 12-13 (CPS, Booth 654), Intersolar North America in San Diego on February 25-27 (CPS, Booth 2117), and CPS America's Innovation Day in Dallas on April 2. They highlight the significance of these events for networking, learning about new inverter technologies, and connecting with industry professionals. Check out CPS Product Innovation Day 2025: https://loom.ly/Ll19EVk
The conversation also dives into the financial calculus behind solar adoption, with Ross emphasizing that upfront savings from central inverters often pale against the operational costs of downtime.
If you’re ready to learn how solar inverters are shaping the future of energy and what’s next for CPS America, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Social Media Handles
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-ross-a24a342/
https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
The Clean Power Hour is brought to you by CPS America, maker of North America’s number one 3-phase string inverter, with over 6GW shipped in the US. With a focus on commercial and utility-scale solar and energy storage, the company partners with customers to provide unparalleled performance and service. The CPS America product lineup includes 3-phase string inverters from 25kW to 275kW, exceptional data communication and controls, and energy storage solutions designed for seamless integration with CPS America systems. CPS America has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. Learn more at https://www.chintpowersystems.com/
00:00 - Introduction to Joe Ross and CPS America
02:56 - Evolution from central to string inverters
09:15 - Real world example: UI solar farm inverter failure
10:31 - CAPEX vs OPEX in inverter selection
13:51 - Understanding inverter failure modes and maintenance
16:37 - History of power electronics in solar
20:07 - Why string inverters dominate C&I solar
25:54 - Joe's background in power electronics
33:18 - National accounts and customer relationships
38:05 - Channel sales strategy and partnerships
40:31 - Mentorship and growing talent in solar
46:22 - Future of string inverters in utility-scale solar
48:14 - Upcoming events and Innovation Day preview
51:21 - Conclusion
