Hey folks, I'm based in California under NEM 2.0 with an 18kW solar system using Enphase IQ7+ micro inverters and an Enphase Envoy installed a couple of years ago. It turns out that adding batteries later has been quite challenging due to my system's layout. Currently, my setup includes a utility grid feeding into a main panel that powers both a shop and a house subpanel. To get power to my well, I need to add a grid-forming inverter, batteries, and an automatic transfer switch (ATS) since my main panel doesn't have a way to disconnect everything. I'm planning to move several circuits into the new ATS.
I'm also getting an electric truck soon and want to utilize it as a battery for longer power outages. I'm attempting to create a minimalist backup system that can support my shop, house, and well with a generator inlet for my truck.
My proposed setup is:
- Reliance Pro 200A ATS
- 2x EG4 6000XP inverters in parallel
- 5.1kWh 48V battery
- 240V generator inlet box (NEMA 14-50)
Can anyone spot anything I've overlooked? I think I can pull this together for around $6k if everything goes smoothly.
1 Answer
You might want to reconsider the capacity of your batteries in relation to the inverters. 12kW of inverter output with only 5.1kWh of battery power might not give you the runtime you need since many of those setups can't handle more than a 1C rating. So check the charge and discharge ratings to avoid problems. To ensure efficient operation, you may need a larger inverter and more battery storage—possibly a third inverter and significantly more battery capacity could be necessary!
Is that really a concern if I'm just using it temporarily until I can hook up vehicle-to-load? I hadn’t considered the charge rating before. I saw a deal on a 20kW inverter combo from Eco-worthy for around $4k. Would that work better? Maybe I can add an ATS to that setup.