SMA Solar Technology AG: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
Company Overview
SMA Solar Technology AG, widely recognised as SMA, is a prominent German firm specialising in the design, manufacturing, and sale of the SMA inverter and energy management systems. Established in 1981, SMA is headquartered in Niestetal, Germany.
Founding and Early Years
Founded by Reiner Wettlaufer, Peter Drews, and Werner Kleinkauf, SMA was initially focused on creating electronic components for the telecommunications sector. However, during the early 1990s, the company redirected its focus towards solar inverter development.
Breakthrough Products
In 1995, SMA introduced its inaugural solar inverter, the Sunny Boy, representing a groundbreaking advancement that transformed the solar industry. The Sunny Boy was the first inverter to utilise a transformer-less design, rendering it more efficient and reliable than other available inverters. Subsequently, SMA continued its journey of innovation, launching the game-changing Sunny Island in 2000, a battery-based inverter empowering users to store surplus solar energy for future use. This innovation enabled individuals to enhance self-sufficiency and reduce their dependence on the grid.
Public Offering and Expansion
In 2008, SMA went public and commenced trading on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, rapidly establishing itself as one of the solar industry’s most valuable companies. In the years that ensued, SMA expanded its product line and global footprint, establishing offices and manufacturing facilities across Europe, Asia, and North America. A wide array of products suitable for various applications, from residential rooftop solar systems to extensive solar farms, were introduced.
Global Presence and Product Range
Presently, SMA stands as a leading global manufacturer of solar inverters and energy management systems. A widespread global presence is maintained, with offices and distribution centers spanning over 20 countries. SMA’s products power diverse applications, including residential and commercial solar systems, as well as utility-scale solar ventures.
Commitment to Innovation and Quality
SMA’s success is a direct result of its unwavering dedication to innovation and quality. Substantial investments in research and development are made, housing a team of experienced engineers committed to pioneering new and inventive products. Furthermore, SMA distinguishes itself with stringent quality control procedures, ensuring that every product leaving its facilities meets the highest benchmarks for quality and reliability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SMA has an illustrious history marked by innovation and excellence. Their steadfast commitment to research and development, coupled with rigorous quality control, positions them as leaders in the solar inverter and energy management system sector. With a global presence and an unwavering customer-centric approach, SMA is poised for continued growth and prosperity in the years ahead.
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Company Overview
SMA Solar Technology AG, a renowned German firm, specialises in designing, producing, and selling solar inverters and energy management systems. With manufacturing facilities in both Germany and China, SMA consistently delivers top-quality, reliable solar solutions.
Primary Manufacturing Hub in Kassel
SMA’s primary manufacturing hub in Kassel, Germany, boasts one of the world’s largest solar inverter production capacities, exceeding 11 GW annually. This cutting-edge facility employs experienced engineers and technicians equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring the highest standards of production.
Additional Production Sites in Niestetal and Wuxi
Besides the Kassel site, SMA operates a manufacturing facility in Niestetal, Germany, focusing on energy management system production for residential and commercial solar energy optimisation. Furthermore, the Wuxi, China facility concentrates on producing Sunny Boy and Sunny Tripower inverters for residential and commercial solar systems. This facility boasts an annual production capacity of over 7 GW, establishing itself as one of China’s leading solar inverter producers.
Impressive Global Production Capacity
SMA’s combined production capacity now exceeds 18 GW per year, solidifying its position as a global leader in the solar inverter industry. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation, coupled with its worldwide presence and customer-centric approach, ensures its continued success.
Recognition and Awards
Over the years, SMA has earned several accolades, affirming its dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the renewable energy sector.
In conclusion, SMA Solar Technology AG stands out as a leader in the solar inverter industry. With advanced manufacturing facilities and a strong focus on quality and innovation, SMA continues to set industry standards and drive global advancements in renewable energy solutions.
[/soms-accordion-item]SMA Australia Pty Ltd.
213 Miller Street
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Tel : +61 (0)2 9491 4200 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm AEST)
Email : info@SMA-Australia.com.au
Freecall 1800 SMA AUS (1800 762 287) (Mon-Fri 8am-6om AEST)
If you wish to complete their contact us form, this can be found here.
For the most up to date product offering, direct from SMA, please click here.
What we like with the SMA inverter range is that they come with SMA ShadeFix function, which means the effects of partial shade is minimised allowing for your PV system to operate as if there was no shade present.
SMA also offer automatic inverter monitoring checking for anomalies around-the-clock, and should they find a fault, SMA informs the installer and PV system operator immediately by email. If a replacement inverter is need, SMA automatically send out a new inverter within 1-3 days of fault diagnosis.
1. Sunny Boy ( single phase – 1.5/2.0/2.5)
2. Sunny Boy (single phase – 3.0/4.0/5.0/6.0)
3. Sunny Tripower (three phase 3.0/4.0/5.0/6.0)
4. Sunny Tripower (three phase – 8.0/10.0)
Pros
- German based company, larger 3 phase inverters made in Germany.
- Australian Office
- Quality inverter option. extremely well regarded within the industry
- They manufacture all components themselves.
- Built in patented ShadeFix solution
- SMA are remotely monitoring your inverter for any anomalies
Cons
- German Engineered Products, but the single phase inverters not made in Germany, they moved production to China.
- According to Sinovoltaics analysis of financials, SMA sit in 15th place in the world, which is within the ‘safe’ zone. (source – Sinovoltaics report 2022)
Our Thoughts
A quality product, manufactured by a massive German company with a strong and long trading history.
The Australian office allows for warranty issues to be catered for, even if your installation company disappears, and they are remotely monitoring your inverter too.
They will be a good choice by anyone, that will last the test of time and produce power for years to come. Overall, our experience with SMA inverters, they have been very robust, and do exactly what you want them to do.
We would definitely without a shadow of a doubt, put them on our own house or business.