Why Reliable Inverter Supply Matters for Safe Harbor Success

As developers and EPCs work to secure projects under Safe Harbor, the difference between staying on schedule and missing critical deadlines often comes down to one factor: supply. While some inverter manufacturers are facing challenges that leave inventory scarce, SMA America and its distribution partners entered this season prepared. 

“At RE+ we heard again and again that having product immediately available is what allows customers to stay on track and meet their Safe Harbor goals,” said Brandon Davis, director of distribution sales at SMA America. “Knowing how critical this is, we made sure our distribution partners are stocked and ready.” 

Safe Harbor provisions allow solar developers to qualify for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) if specific criteria are met, even if the project is not completed until later. For projects under 1.5 Megawatts (MW), developers can either begin physical work or incur at least 5% of total project costs before the applicable deadline to establish eligibility. They must also demonstrate “continuous progress” toward completion, typically by placing the project in service within four years.  

Projects over 1.5 MW face stricter requirements of “physical work of a significant nature” and can no longer rely solely on the 5% cost threshold. A lack of product supply can impact the project’s eligibility for the ITC if it impedes the four-year “continuity safe harbor” that allows the project to qualify if placed in service within four years of starting construction. 

In both scenarios, having equipment available to meet a project’s timeline is key to helping achieve the financial benefits tied to ITC eligibility, which depend heavily on meeting procurement and construction deadlines. 

Today, the SMA Sunny Tripower CORE1 and Sunny Tripower X (STPX) solutions are available and positioned to support projects that need dependable commercial equipment to secure the ITC. These solutions are recognized for: 

• Consistent performance and reliability in the field
• Simplified installation and commissioning
• Competitive pricing backed by proven quality 

“Developers and EPCs do not have time for inventory surprises during Safe Harbor,” Davis said. “We planned ahead with our partners so customers can secure product, keep schedules intact and finish the year with confidence.” 

With deadlines looming, reliability in supply is just as important as reliability in technology. SMA America is ready to provide both.  

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