I'm trying to wrap my head around how coupling works in my solar setup. I have a grid-tied system with Enphase micros, an older style inverter, batteries, and a generator. I believe everything needs to connect through the generator port of the system controller, but I'm curious about what the alternative is. Is the need to connect this way due to my old inverter or because my system is grid-tied?
2 Answers
With Enphase systems, you'll be AC coupled since Enphase batteries use microinverters to convert the voltage to AC for the system controller. If your setup included a string inverter, then you could potentially connect it via DC coupling for direct input from the PV and battery to the loads or grid. Since you’re using older tech, each component's role matters in defining how it connects.
The choice between AC and DC coupling generally depends on your inverter. Newer hybrid inverters usually allow for DC coupling with batteries. In your case, since you have an older inverter, it's likely that you're using AC coupling instead. This way, the inverter handles the AC power output, which is typical for older systems.