PARTNER SUCCESS STORY: Cut Costs, Boost Reliability – Swiftwater Talks APsystems

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Swiftwater Electric and Solar has been serving customers since 2005 as a trusted electrical contractor in the San Juan Islands. Recently, they’ve expanded their services to include solar, batteries, and generators, offering high-quality installations tailored to each customer’s unique energy needs. “We work closely with our customers to design and install solar systems that are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective,” says owner David Nicol. Their passion for solar energy drives their commitment to making clean energy accessible to everyone, helping build a sustainable future for the community.

David Nicol shared why Swiftwater Electric and Solar chose APsystems microinverters for their solar projects. “They have a sub-1% unit failure rate, which is great,” he says, highlighting APsystems’ reliability. The 2:1 architecture “means we have half the equipment on the roof — and half the opportunity for anything to fail,” providing peace of mind for both installers and homeowners.

Cost savings are another major benefit: “Now an inverter system is less than a solar panel on a per-watt basis — that saves us money and saves our customers money,” Nicol explains. Combined with APsystems’ extended warranty, the switch has been seamless: “I have fully switched over to APS and so far it’s been a great experience for us.”

As early adopters in their market, Swiftwater Electric and Solar has also set a trend among other installers. “More than three-quarters of the time, when we compete with another installer, they’re also quoting APS — that makes me feel better about my choice,” Nicol notes. With APsystems, Swiftwater Electric and Solar has found a solution that is reliable, cost-effective, and widely trusted — a perfect match for their commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused solar solutions.

World’s Largest Microinverter-Powered Solar Project – 6,442 APsystems Microinverters!

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Located at the Nanjing International Expo Center in China, this landmark 25MW solar project spans over 150,000 square meters. It features 6,442 APsystems QT2D microinverters and more than 40,000 high-efficiency photovoltaic modules. The system is expected to generate approximately 24.8 million kWh annually, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 25,000 tons each year—the equivalent of planting 900,000 trees. This project sets a global benchmark for clean energy, showcasing the power of microinverter technology in driving sustainable, low-carbon development.

Winner Spotlight: Solar YYC’s Award-Winning Multi-Family Installation at Copperfield Park II

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This year, APsystems proudly introduced a new category to the Canadian Installation Awards: Multi-Family. Calgary-based Solar YYC Inc., founded and led by President Alex Tyndale, set the standard by earning recognition for their 315kW (DC) system spanning four residential buildings in Copperfield Park II.

The project’s primary objective was straightforward but impactful: offset the common loads of the development, including parkades, hallway lighting, block heater plug-ins, and exterior lighting. That goal was fully achieved, delivering meaningful reductions to shared operating costs while proving that solar can scale effectively in multi-family settings.

For Tyndale, who founded Solar YYC eight years ago, with a focus on 75% residential and 25% commercial/agricultural projects, the Copperfield Park system reflects the company’s ability to design solutions that balance performance with simplicity.

APsystems microinverters were central to the project’s success. With arrays spread across many roof faces and orientations, the technology provided seamless answers to both rapid shutdown (RSD) requirements and module-level power electronics (MLPE) needs. “APsystems solved the rapid shutdown and MLPE needs across many roof faces,” said Tyndale. “It’s plug-and-play without sacrificing quality, and delivers real savings to residents.”

The installation process itself was described as “plug and play” – simple, fast, and reliable – without compromising on quality. The built-in functionality of APsystems microinverters, including MLPE and RSD, eliminated the need for additional components and streamlined system deployment.

Performance has been equally impressive. “APS does what it says, in terms of production,” Tyndale noted. “An equivalent string system will almost always produce less than APS and, in effect, be much more dangerous.” For Solar YYC, APsystems stands apart thanks to its reliability, high-quality standards, and responsive support, all delivered at a competitive cost.

Community reception has been positive, particularly as residents benefit from the ongoing energy savings the system provides. In fact, Solar YYC reports that some clients now specifically request not to use string or optimized systems, preferring the safety and streamlined design of APsystems microinverters.

From Calgary’s Copperfield Park II to the broader Canadian solar industry, Solar YYC’s award-winning project demonstrates how thoughtful design, reliable technology, and a clear focus on resident value can redefine what’s possible for multi-family solar.

SEE ALL WINNERS HERE

 

 

Winner Spotlight: Hansen Solar Energy Brings Affordable Housing to Light in Charlottetown, PE

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Hansen Solar Energy isn’t just installing solar panels—they’re lighting the way for community transformation. Based in Charlottetown, PE, the team—led by General Manager Shaun Callaghan—was recognized in the 2024 APsystems Canadian Installation Awards for their outstanding work on a nonprofit affordable housing project on Bills Lane.

What sets Hansen Solar Energy apart is their deep commitment to community-first solutions. Known for their thoughtful, hands-on approach, the team worked closely with building owners to design a system that would deliver long-term financial relief through clean energy. The 82.35 kWh system now helps residents reduce their monthly utility bills while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

This wasn’t just another install. Hansen Solar took on the challenges of a multi-building nonprofit site with precision, pairing innovation with impact. Their ability to remotely manage and monitor multiple system gateways (called ECUs) under a single account proved essential—not only for optimizing technical performance but also for keeping the project scalable and accessible for stakeholders.

“We have access to multiple ECUs and units under one account, which helps us monitor and manage the systems with precision,” said Callaghan. “That level of visibility really helped us maximize the output of our system.”

To bring the project to life, Hansen Solar Energy selected APsystems DS3 microinverters for their flexibility, affordability, and ease of integration. The plug-and-play design supported a smooth installation process, and APsystems’ customer service team was on hand to assist as needed—ensuring everything came together seamlessly.

“The support from APsystems was great throughout the process,” Callaghan shared. “It’s helped us not only deliver a reliable system, but also show stakeholders the performance and savings in real time.”

Hansen Solar Energy found the microinverters to be both high-performing and budget-friendly – two factors that made a real difference for a nonprofit project focused on delivering long-term value to the community.

“It’s a more budget-friendly option, and because APsystems microinverters are simple to install and scale, they’re great for community-focused projects like this one,” Callaghan added.

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Site owners appreciate the real-time tracking made possible through the APsystems app, and stakeholders have praised the project for its financial and environmental impact.

From planning to performance, Hansen Solar Energy exemplifies what it means to deliver solar solutions with purpose. Their work at Bills Lane stands as a model for how technical excellence, thoughtful design, and community care can, and should, go hand in hand.

 

SEE ALL WINNERS HERE

 

 

Geddes & Murphy Electric Ltd’s Award-Winning Barn Rooftop Installation at Hill Peak Farms

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In the rural heart of Middle Musquodoboit, Nova Scotia, sustainability and performance come together in a standout solar project by Geddes & Murphy Electric Ltd. Their 135kW DC barn rooftop installation at Hill Peak Farms has earned the title of Commercial Project of the Year in APsystems’ 2024 Canadian Installation Awards—thanks to both its technical execution and energy impact.

Designed with precision and purpose, the system utilizes 150 APsystems DS3-S microinverters to bring the farming operation nearly to net zero on electrical energy use. With over a decade in the industry, Geddes & Murphy’s experience shows in the results.

“We’ve installed around 1,000 APsystems microinverters and they’ve produced more energy than our estimates almost every time,” said Scott Geddes, Owner of Geddes & Murphy Electric Ltd. “The ease of installation, pricing, and performance are hard to beat.”

The installation process capitalized on APsystems’ electrician-friendly design. Trunk cables enabled simple string layouts, while the ability to run AC power directly from the roof streamlined system tie-in. For a high-demand farm setting, this kind of efficiency makes a real difference.

Even post-installation, the system continues to impress. “Our customers are always pleased with how quickly we can install and with how well the systems perform,” Geddes added. “The monitoring app is user-friendly and lets them track performance right down to each panel.”

Backed by reliability, minimal warranty replacements, and an easy RMA process, APsystems microinverters have become a go-to for the team at Geddes & Murphy. The company is already looking ahead, continuing to integrate APsystems into future builds across residential, commercial, and agricultural sites.

From the fields of Nova Scotia to the forefront of Canada’s solar movement, this award-winning project is a testament to the power of good design, great technology, and a commitment to getting the job done right.

SEE ALL WINNERS HERE

 

 

Flux Renewables’ Award-Winning Solar Installation in Alberta

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In the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, just 40 minutes from Calgary, a bed and breakfast is now powered by one of the most impressive residential solar installations in Canada. Designed and installed by Flux Renewables, this 18.63kW system has earned the title of Residential Project of the Year in APsystems’ 2024 Canadian Installation Awards — and for good reason.

What makes this system stand out isn’t just the beautiful setting, but its ability to handle a real-world challenge: shade. With trees, cloud cover, and mountain terrain constantly impacting the site, Flux needed a solution that could adapt. APsystems microinverters were the clear choice.

“The combination of safety, dependability, advanced tech, affordability, and simple installation made APsystems the right fit,” said Tanner Robertson, CEO and Founder of Flux Renewables. “This setup experiences plenty of shade—yet the APsystems microinverters manage it efficiently.”

Each panel benefits from independent MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking), ensuring high performance even in variable conditions. The result? Reliable energy production, reduced energy bills for the B&B owner, and a powerful demonstration of solar tech in action.

This isn’t Flux’s first standout project. In fact, the client was referred by a neighbor who also had an APsystems installation—last year’s entry in the same competition. That kind of word-of-mouth speaks volumes.

With a focus on small-scale commercial, agricultural, and residential installs, Flux Renewables is carving out a name for itself as a trusted installer in Western Canada. And according to Robertson, their six years working with APsystems has built a foundation of trust.

“No electronic product is perfect, but APsystems has always stepped up. Any defects were replaced quickly and without hassle. That kind of support matters.”

This award-winning project showcases the future of solar: smarter systems, adaptable tech, and installers who go above and beyond to deliver results that work in the real world.

SEE ALL WINNERS HERE

 

 

VIDEO: APsystems Powers World’s First Net Zero High-rise Apartment Building

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Downtown Seattle has the distinct privilege of being home to the world’s first high-rise apartment building given the highly coveted Net Zero designation by the International Living Future Institute, an achievement that would not be possible without the involvement of APsystems microinverters.

Learn more about this inspiring initiative in the full article here.

PARTNER SUCCESS STORY: Krik Haffner of South Sound Solar

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Krik Haffner, Founder & President of South Sound Solar, Discusses Quixote Village Project

In a recent project, Quixote Village, the folks at South Sound Solar, led by founder and president Kirk Haffner, demonstrated their commitment to both sustainability and humanity by powering 30 tiny homes in an effort to help shelter the houseless. Partnering with an architectural firm, Kirk and team ensured that the village was solar-ready, utilizing the latest technology to optimize energy production.

With the help of APsystems’ dual-channel microinverters, South Sound Solar was able to maximize efficiency, powering each of the tiny homes with just four solar panels. The decision to make APsystems the primary microinverter was driven by reliability and performance, a choice informed by years of experience and a commitment to delivering quality.

Watch the full video about the Quixote Village project.

Learn more about this inspiring initiative in the full article here

VIDEO: Brightening Lives – Quixote Village Goes Solar

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Quixote Village, a community of 30 tiny homes, stands as a symbol of support for Olympia, Washington’s most vulnerable citizens. Since its inception, the vision included incorporating sustainable solar energy into the infrastructure. Olympia Community Solar took the lead in spearheading this initiative, skillfully securing funding through various grant channels. The design and installation of the solar system was expertly handled by South Sound Solar.

Witness the incredible journey in this video, showcasing each tiny house’s roof adorned with four solar panels featuring APsystems multi-module microinverters. This innovative system contributes to annual savings of nearly $8,000 for the village, funds that are wisely reinvested into essential resources.

Learn more about this inspiring initiative in the full article here.

Watch this testimonial video from South Sound Solar.

Three-Phase Made Simple

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This exclusive article from APsystems was featured in the recent Special Report by Solar Builder magazine, “The Case for Microinverters in C&I Solar.” It explores the growing adoption of microinverters in commercial applications, particularly the native 3-phase microinverters that have revolutionized the industry. The article highlights the simplified wiring diagrams and streamlined installation process made possible by the 3-phase system wiring, along with key considerations for PV module selection, layout design, next-gen microinverters, racking choices, and gateway placement.

To access the full article and gain valuable insights into the considerations and best practices for 3-phase microinverter design and installation:

READ THE ARTICLE HERE