Hey everyone! I'm working on setting up a small solar system for my off-grid cabin and I'm thinking about using a portable power station like the Bluetti Apex 300 or the Ecoflow Delta 3. The plan is to initially charge it using AC power at home until my solar panels are set up. I've got 3x590W panels that I was considering with a DC disconnect in front of them. But, here's the catch: the portable power stations can't handle all three panels on a single input, so I'd have to use either 1 or 2 panels at a time. Are there any power stations that can handle 150V/1800W on a single input? Also, is it worthwhile to have two DC disconnects? They're pretty pricey and make the wiring a bit trickier. What do you all think?
2 Answers
I get what you're saying! I had to be mindful of the input limits when setting up my Growatt 3.6kWh solar system using a 2S3P arrangement of 100W panels. Just remember, in these setups, volts push the current, which might help if you’re using a smaller generator like mine that tops out at 100W max input.
Having multiple DC disconnects is definitely a choice you need to weigh. They do add complexity and cost to the wiring. If you can find a portable power station with a higher voltage input limit, that might simplify your setup significantly! Just make sure you double-check the specs before moving forward.