The ‘CIRCLE OF TRUST’ for AC Coupled Solutions
With our decade’s worth of experience, we have worked with numerous manufacturers. Some have performed better than others and have really stood out to us. Our ‘CIRCLE OF TRUST’ represents the manufacturers that we recommend and are comfortable installing on our own properties.
Please click on a manufacturer’s logo to be taken to a page dedicated to them and the products they offer for your AC-coupled battery solution.
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An AC-coupled battery solution is a cutting-edge technology that enhances the functionality and efficiency of a solar system by integrating battery storage into the existing alternating current (AC) electrical setup. In this setup, the battery storage is connected to the system’s AC side, effectively complementing solar panels and optimizing energy usage.
Traditionally, solar systems have employed DC-coupled battery solutions, wherein the batteries are directly connected to the system’s DC electrical circuit. While DC-coupled systems work well for maximizing solar energy capture and storing it in batteries, they have limitations when it comes to retrofitting existing solar installations or incorporating additional storage capacity into pre-existing systems.
By contrast, an AC-coupled battery solution offers more flexibility and ease of installation. It allows homeowners, businesses, and even utility-scale solar projects to add battery storage without modifying the existing solar photovoltaic (PV) array or changing the inverter configuration. This technology utilizes a separate AC-coupled inverter to convert DC power from the battery bank into usable AC power, synchronizing it with the grid and home electrical appliances.
The advantages of an AC-coupled battery solution are:
1. Modularity and scalability:
AC-coupled systems can be easily expanded by adding more batteries to the existing configuration. This flexibility allows users to start with a smaller battery bank and incrementally increase its capacity as their energy storage needs grow.
2. Compatibility with existing solar systems:
Homeowners or businesses that already have a solar PV installation can seamlessly integrate an AC-coupled battery solution. There is no need to rewire the DC circuit or replace the existing solar inverter.
3. Backup power capability:
During grid outages or emergencies, AC-coupled batteries can provide backup power by switching to an off-grid mode. This feature provides peace of mind and ensures that critical appliances continue to operate during power disruptions.
4. Time-of-Use optimisation:
AC-coupled battery solutions excel in optimizing energy usage and reducing utility bills. By storing excess solar energy during the day, the batteries can supply power during evening hours when electricity rates are typically higher, maximizing self-consumption and minimizing reliance on the grid.
5. Greater control and management:
AC-coupled battery systems come equipped with advanced monitoring and control capabilities. Users can track their energy generation, consumption, and battery status remotely through integrated software applications, allowing for better energy management and optimisation. The ability to monitor and control the AC-coupled battery system remotely provides users with a greater level of convenience and flexibility.
In addition to monitoring energy generation, users can also track their energy consumption. This allows them to identify energy usage patterns and make informed decisions on how to minimize energy waste. By understanding when they consume the most energy, users can adjust their lifestyle behaviours or even implement energy-efficient solutions to reduce their overall consumption.
In conclusion:
AC-coupled battery systems offer advanced monitoring and control capabilities that enable users to have better control and management over their energy usage. The ability to track energy generation, consumption, and battery status remotely through integrated software applications empowers users to make data-driven decisions for energy optimization. By utilizing these capabilities and integrating with smart home automation systems, users can achieve greater energy efficiency and reduce their dependence on the grid.