This blog will explain the reasons, types, and Growatt's solutions for solar retrofits.
Solar retrofit is the process of upgrading existing solar energy systems to improve their efficiency, functionality, or capacity. This can involve modifications such as adding new solar panels, power optimisers or inverters to meet increased energy demands or enhance system performance. As solar technology evolves, retrofitting may also include integrating modern solutions that ensure older installations remain effective.
In short, solar retrofitting is a strategic move to enhance existing solar systems, making them more powerful and efficient to adapt to evolving energy needs.
Why do you need solar retrofits and upgrades?
As energy demands continue to soar, many homeowners and businesses find their existing solar systems insufficient. Understanding the necessity for solar retrofits and upgrades is essential to maximise efficiency and meet current energy requirements.
Expansion of solar capacity
Many homeowners and businesses are experiencing increased energy demands due to the purchase of EVs and new electrical appliances. This surge in energy consumption often necessitates the upgrading of the entire PV system to enhance energy generation. Often, it may require the installation of higher-capacity solar inverters to effectively manage and distribute the increased power output. Upgrading these components ensures that the solar system can adequately meet the growing energy needs, providing greater efficiency and energy security.
Energy storage integration
Homeowners and businesses are increasingly seeking to enhance their energy independence through solar battery retrofits. These battery systems allow for the storage of excess solar energy generated during the day, enabling use during high electricity prices or at night.
Integrating solar batteries typically involves installing hybrid solar inverters alongside battery systems. In countries with incentives for solar battery installations, users can optimise their solar energy usage and reduce grid reliance. This setup not only improves energy independence but also provides a reliable backup power source, enhancing energy resilience.
EV charger integration
With the recent surge in EV adoption, homeowners and businesses increasingly require efficient charging solutions to support their daily commutes. Integrating solar EV chargers into existing solar systems provides a convenient and reliable way for EV owners to charge their vehicles using solar.
Retrofitting EV chargers is a logical step for those with sufficient roof space (and solar system installation), as it allows them to harness solar energy to power their EVs. This integration not only reduces reliance on the grid but also lowers charging costs, as users can take advantage of solar-generated electricity rather than purchasing power at higher rates. Additionally, most, if not all commercial solar EV chargers are designed to work with existing solar systems, enabling users to monitor and manage their energy consumption through a single app. This holistic approach to energy management enhances cost-effectiveness and energy independence for EV owners.
Growatt's solutions to solar retrofits
As one of the world's leading solar solution suppliers, Growatt offers several solutions for solar retrofitting, ensuring that existing solar systems can meet diverse energy needs effectively.
MIN-XH solar inverter: Meet all your different energy needs (single phase)
The Growatt MIN-XH inverter is designed to be retrofitted for multiple applications, including serving as a hybrid inverter, an AC-coupled retrofit solution for existing on-grid solar systems, and providing backup power during outages. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for homeowners and businesses looking to enhance their solar systems.
Hybrid inverter (energy storage system application)
The MIN 2500-6000TL-XH inverter is equipped with a battery interface, allowing users to upgrade traditional on-grid solar systems into energy storage systems anytime. This flexibility reduces initial investment costs and enables users to strengthen their energy independence by storing surplus solar energy for future use. The MIN 2500-6000TL-XH inverter is recommended to work with Growatt's ARK XH Battery System and APX HV Battery, which both utilise LiFEPO4 chemistry, known for its safety and reliability.
Retrofit Solutions
Solar users with existing solar panels can retrofit MIN 2500-6000TL-XH as either a DC-coupled or AC-coupled inverter.
- DC-Coupling: As shown in the picture above, users wishing to add more solar panels can install additional MIN 2500-6000TL-XH inverter(s) as a DC-coupled solution. The system can easily integrate with existing inverters, optimising energy production.
- AC-Coupling: As shown in the picture above, users who do not require additional solar panels can use the MIN 2500-6000TL-XH as an AC-coupled inverter. In this setup, it converts AC from the existing inverters into DC for battery charging and then converts DC from the battery back into AC for electric loads.
It is important to note that when retrofitting a single-phase system, a Growatt three-phase smart meter (APM-CT-G or TPM-CT-E) is required. The export limitation function is not supported in retrofitted systems due to the difficulty of controlling third-party inverters. The MIN 2500-6000-XH must be set to System Retrofit Mode for optimal performance.
Backup power application
The MIN 2500-6000TL-XH Inverter automatically switches to backup mode during power outages, supplying emergency power to critical loads. To enable this function, a SYN 50-XH-10 is required, which can provide backup power of up to 6kW. The SYN 50-XH-10 includes a built-in single-phase meter, simplifying installation by eliminating the need for an additional meter. In short, it possesses the ability to deliver uninterrupted power during blackout and power outage scenarios.
MOD-XH (BP) and MID-XH: Flexible system retrofit (three phase)
Growatt's three-phase hybrid inverters, MOD-XH (BP) and MID-XH, are designed for flexible system retrofitting. When paired with Growatt's Smart Meter TPM-6CT-C, these inverters can function as AC-coupled hybrid systems alongside the APX HV Battery System, providing users with enhanced energy management capabilities.
Growatt Smart Meter for AC Coupled Scenario
Growatt's TPM-6CT-C is a multi-function rail meter that accurately measures and displays various power parameters in both 3P3W and 3P4W configurations. It provides important information, including voltage, current, power, frequency, and total harmonics. The meter connects to 6 external current transformers, each with a nominal current of 100A/250A, enabling comprehensive monitoring of power generation from third-party inverters as well as total system power generation.
Backup power application
Users can install a SYN BOX: SYN 50-XH-30 for MOD-XH (BP) and SYN 100-XH-30 for MID-XH, to enable the system to switch to backup power mode. This setup allows critical loads to remain powered during outages, ensuring a continuous energy supply even when the grid fails.
In summary, Growatt's three-phase inverter solutions offer flexible retrofitting options that enhance energy independence and reliability, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications.
Evolving technological advancements for the solar industry
As the solar industry continues to evolve, new technologies and efficiencies are emerging to enhance energy generation and storage. Alongside the increasing demand for consumer appliances and the electrification of the economy, users will likely expand their solar systems to meet their growing energy needs.
Growatt's solutions, including the versatile single-phase MIN-XH, three-phase MOD-XH (BP) and MID-XH, provide flexible options for retrofitting existing systems. By integrating features such as energy storage and backup power capabilities, these solutions empower users to optimise their solar energy usage. Solar system owners are encouraged to contact Growatt solar consultants to explore tailored upgrade options that enhance performance and efficiency to its fullest potential.
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