Soaring energy prices and Synergrid limitations result in increase of semi off-grid systems
With a balanced semi off-grid energy system, we operate off-grid for 8-9 months of the year and only use the grid during the dark winter months. We use the grid as a kind of generator but without all the traditional drawbacks. Rising energy prices are making this a more interesting investment, which is also reflected in the demand. Also, in this system no account must be taken of Synergrid inspections because the battery system is never connected to the grid.
In a semi off-grid system a 40A or 80A transfer switch is used. This transfer switch automatically switches from the off-grid system to the grid when the batteries reach a certain DoD level and insufficient solar energy is available. When the switchover occurs, the off-grid system is first completely disconnected before consumers are connected to the grid - this is the 'break before make' principle. However, the interruption is so short (50 milliseconds) that it does not adversely affect electrical appliances and they just keep working without a hitch.
With the semi off-grid system no account must be taken of Synergrid limitations and/or grid studies. Another common problem occurs when someone wants to install additional solar panels but the maximum solar inverter capacity has already been reached. With the semi off-grid system, additional solar panels can be linked to an MPPT, which is then used to power the battery system. In other words, it’s not surprising that these systems are gaining popularity.
The pictures of the semi off-grid system were made by Ensol-tec, who recently installed this system on a farm. The installation consists of 3 Quattros 48/15000, 1 MPPT 450/200, 1 MPPT 450/100 PV, resulting in a DC production of 44kWp (expandable to 286kWp). There are also 38.4kWh worth of Pylontech batteries, the Cerbo GX, the accompanying installation equipment and, of course, our transfer switch. The battery capacity will double in the near future.
Semi off-grid systems are always tailored to the customer, making it important to know the daily consumption and peak consumption in order to propose a smoothly operating system. Please feel free to contact us for more details on this system.
