The new inverter offers enhanced power efficiency, grid-forming capabilities, and increased profitability, setting a new standard for large-scale energy storage solutions.
SMA Australia is proud to announce the launch of its Sunny Central Storage UP-S battery inverter in a move that promises to revolutionise the battery energy storage system (BESS) market.
As global energy demands rise and the need for grid stability intensifies, the Sunny Central Storage UP-S delivers the high-performance capabilities needed to keep power plant operators competitive. Building on the success of its other models on the market, this next-generation battery inverter is designed to optimise energy arbitrage and grid-forming services.
Tailored for large-scale power plants, the Sunny Central Storage UP-S offers enhanced power efficiency, longer system life, and increased profitability, positioning itself as a critical asset for large-scale power system operators worldwide.
“The Sunny Central Storage UP-S is a true game-changer for large-scale power systems,” said John Alexander, SMA Australia Vice-President Large-Scale.
“It eliminates the trade-off between energy arbitrage and grid-forming services, allowing operators to fully capitalise on both opportunities without compromising system reliability or efficiency."
At the core of the Sunny Central Storage UP-S is its advanced SiC Mosfet semiconductor stack, which delivers superior power conversion efficiency, drastically reduced thermal loads, and the ability to operate at full capacity even during grid-forming operations. These innovations translate to higher power output and increased profitability for developers and power plant operators, while also minimising infrastructure and maintenance costs.
Key features of the Sunny Central Storage UP-S include:
Outstanding efficiency: Capable of delivering up to 4,600 kVA with a higher power output.
Maximised capacity: Operates at 100% capacity thanks to advanced semiconductor technology.
Reduced infrastructure costs: Fewer inverters required, cutting capital expenditure, installation, and maintenance expenses.
Short-term overload capability: Provides dynamic grid support during peak demand periods.
All-climate performance: Equipped with the OptiCool air cooling system for efficient thermal management in any environment.
Designed to strengthen grid stability, the Sunny Central Storage UP-S supports inverter-based inertia and improved short-circuit ratios, ensuring reliable power delivery even during critical disturbances. Its black start capability allows for decentralised grid restoration, offering a rapid response to outages and safeguarding the energy supply.
With ancillary services support – including frequency and voltage regulation – the inverter helps maintain grid stability while generating additional revenue streams for operators. It also supports islanded operation, allowing the system to function independently from the main grid, ideal for critical infrastructure and remote areas.
“At SMA Australia, our focus is on developing technology that not only meets current market demands but also anticipates future needs,” said John Alexander.
“The Sunny Central Storage UP-S, with its unprecedented efficiency, reliability, and profitability, truly represents the next step in grid stability and energy storage innovation."
The launch of the Sunny Central Storage UP-S coincides with news that SMA has achieved ISO 27001 certification for its innovative Sunny Portal PV system monitor. As the leading international standard dedicated to information security, the company’s successful ISO 27001 certification is the result of an extensive evaluation process in which all aspects of SMA’s information security management were assessed by external auditors.
With inverters playing an integral role in any PV system, the technology has become a target for hackers worldwide. By achieving ISO certification, SMA distinguishes itself from other inverter manufacturers by providing robust protection against potentially devastating cyberthreats, underscoring the company's commitment to operational excellence as the demand for technological innovation continues to rise across the industry.
Still ahead for SMA is the upcoming launch of its 1-phase 2-in-1 Sunny Boy Smart Energy inverter and its Home Storage battery into the Australian market. More details about this launch are to come soon.