Energy Storage System Buyer's Guide 2022

By SB Staff

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Energy storage systems (ESS) are increasingly being paired with solar PV arrays to optimize the use of generated energy. These systems are becoming more advanced and feature-rich, allowing batteries to be smartly deployed for maximum return on investment (ROI). It is now easier to charge and discharge batteries more efficiently and deploy oversized PV arrays to better meet customer needs, from small, off-grid homes to larger, grid-tied microgrids.

We consulted with ESS and charge controller suppliers to learn about their latest systems, the applications they are designed for, and why you should consider them for your next project. You’ll also find valuable links to our Battery Buyer’s Guide, which details the best battery options for each system.

Panasonic | EverVolt Energy Storage System

This is a Full Energy Storage System for grid-tied homes.

The EverVolt storage system includes a hybrid inverter and modular batteries. It can connect to a PV input up to 6.5 kW DC over two MPPT channels and is available in both AC and DC-coupled options. The upcoming new generation inverter can connect to a PV input of 12 kW DC and can be both AC and DC coupled at the same time. EverVolt can be paired with any existing solar array and can also be installed without solar. The new gen 2.0 inverters are battery-ready and can be integrated with any solar installation; batteries can be added later.

• Inverter Continuous Output Power: 5.5 kW AC and 7.6 kW AC
• Continuous Output Current: 23 A and 32 A
• CEC Roundtrip Efficiency: 86-90%
• Number of MPPTs: 2 and 4
• Stackability: Up to 3 systems
• Warranty: 10 years

Battery pairing: EverVolt Battery
Website: na.panasonic.com/us/
Email: PanasonicBatteryStorage@us.panasonic.com

Morningstar Corporation | GenStar MPPT DC system controller

This is a DC System Controller for off-grid residential, industrial, C&I.

GenStar MPPT is a future-proof and fully-integrated DC charging system that grows with your solar electric system. It boasts Morningstar’s TriStar controller and the latest in advanced communications, control, and networking technology. The GenStar design, with its “lithium DNA,” supports all battery chemistries. It can grow system needs through the innovative ReadyBlock expansion system, which allows adding crucial technology and features like Lithium BMS communication, advanced load control, and metering/monitoring of key metrics. The controller offers full network integration without the need for add-ons, plus WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. A fanless design enhances efficiency and reduces self-consumption. GenStar also provides robust load control with built-in 30 amps load capability and an oversized PV array input rating at 150%.

• 12 / 24 / 48 Volt nominal batteries
• 200 Volt solar input
• 100 Amp battery charging
• Integrated 30 Amp load control
• Warranty: 5 years

Battery pairing: Morningstar has an Energy Storage Partner program (ESP), which includes leading lithium and other advanced-battery brands such as Trojan, Simpliphi, Discover, MK/Deka, Fortress Power, RELiON, KiloVault, PylonTech, Lithionics, PowerPlus Energy (Australia), Enerdrive (Australia), genZ (Australia) and others. This simplifies installation and setup, reducing the need for back-and-forth between battery and component companies to accurately configure a system.

Website: morningstarcorp.com
Email: sales@morningstarcorp.com

Blue Planet Energy | Blue Ion LX

This is an Integrated Energy Storage System for C&I / Microgrids.

The Blue Ion LX from Blue Planet Energy is a premium, grid-optional energy storage solution that integrates a wide range of renewable and traditional energy sources to support businesses, critical infrastructure, and global resilience projects. Paired with solar PV, a Blue Ion LX microgrid can function independently of, or in conjunction with, the utility grid. Built in the U.S., this solution features energy storage, system intelligence, and site controls in a ruggedized enclosure. It includes a pre-tested and pre-configured battery inverter. Blue Planet Energy supports the Blue Ion LX with comprehensive project design and sales support, installation and commissioning support, and O&M and financing services. They offer zero-money-down financing for new solar-plus-storage microgrids. Business owners only pay for electricity generated by a new solar array, plus a fixed rate for the Blue Ion LX system's added benefits and services.

• Non-toxic lithium ferrous phosphate battery chemistry
• 15-year performance warranty (8,000 cycles/100% DoD)
• UL9540a listed
• 125kW/128kWh system size, expandable in 32kWh increments
• Cloud, Local Area Network and/or Blue Ion LX touchscreen data access
• Warranty: 15-year performance warranty

Battery pairing: Proprietary Blue Planet battery
Email: sales@blueplanetenergy.com