Trusted industry leader delivers new solar string combiner and disconnect that shields itself from the elements, protects users and keeps the PV wiring free from damage

PALATINE, Ill. September 10, 2012 – Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management, announced today at Solar Power International 2012 the availability of its new line of Square D PV string combiners and disconnects, which are designed for today's technologically advanced photovoltaic (PV) systems. With the PV market growing at nearly 35 percent per year*, solar installers and electrical contractors are increasingly faced with large and complex PV installation projects and the 600Vdc PV string combiners, which are available in a variety of sizes, are essential for meeting the needs of these large projects.

The PV string combiner and disconnect works well with all PV systems due to the wide range of sizes and capabilities. Key features of the Solar String Combiner and Disconnect include:

· Durability and protection from the elements: The durable boxes protect the series-strings of PV modules from weather, harsh conditions and overcurrent. The white, UV-resistant coating reduces solar gain by 35 percent. It has a specially engineered enclosure designed to provide dust tight and rain tight protection; meeting or exceeding NEMA 3R, 12, and 4 requirements.

· Customizable capabilities: The box has lay-flat capability for roof-top applications, allowing it to be mounted upright and at any angle between zero and 90 degrees. In addition, it allows for flexible installation with top, bottom or side entry and is equipped with substantial wire-bending space.

· Safety considerations: Square D traditional visual blade switch architecture confirms disconnection, while touch safe IP2 interior shielding protects against accidental contact with live wires. In addition, Seismic Certified 100-400 amp string combiner boxes provide earthquake safety. An optional component is the integrated 2.5 kV surge arrestor to protect PV electronics from lightning strikes.

· UL listings: Compliance with key industry standards including: UL1741, switches tested to UL98B

"With PV installations becoming increasingly large and complex, high-performing custom, durable and safe solutions are critical for today's installers and end users," said Mike Rice, senior vice president of Power Services, Schneider Electric. "Our line of PV String Combiner boxes are the first in the market designed with solar installers and electrical contractors in mind and with the attention to quality that comes with the Schneider Electric brand. This product is the latest addition to our comprehensive portfolio of end-to-end solar solutions which include full engineering, procurement, contracting and management services. From design to start-up, Schneider Electric is committed to delivering turnkey solutions that make the most of energy resources."

Schneider Electric's 600Vdc PV string combiner and combo disconnect will be available for purchase through solar distributors, as well as electric wholesale channels. For more information on Schneider Electric's products and solutions, please visit: www.scheider-electric.com/us.

Schneider Electric's team of experts will be on hand in booth 1809 at the Solar Power International 2012 show in Orlando, September 10-13, 2012, to discuss their end-to-end solar solutions designed for residential, utilities, and large and small commercial buildings. Schneider Electric's Solar Business is a world leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of advanced power electronic products and systems for the solar market. The company's products convert and control raw electrical power from any central, distributed, renewable power source into high-quality power required by the electricity grid.

Supporting Resources:

For more information on Schneider Electric solar solutions: www.schneider-electric.com/Solar
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About Schneider Electric

As a global specialist in energy management with operations in more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric offers integrated solutions across multiple market segments, including leadership positions in Utilities & Infrastructures, Industries & Machine Manufacturers, Non-residential Buildings, Data Centers & Networks and Residential. Focused on making energy safe, reliable, efficient, productive and green, the company's 130,000 plus employees achieved sales of about 31 billion US dollars (22.4 billion euros) in 2011, through an active commitment to help individuals and organizations make the most of their energy.

www.schneider‑electric.com/us