13kW Jinko solar array — Increases solar generation for higher household demand.
Upgrading an Older Off-Grid System
This property near Daylesford already had a working off-grid system built around a Selectronic inverter, Fronius AC-coupled solar, and lead-acid batteries. While the system had served the owners well, ageing battery technology and changing energy requirements made it the right time for an upgrade.
The owners also wanted to add electric vehicle charging while keeping as much of the existing infrastructure as practical.
Integrating New Solar Technology with Existing Selectronic/Fronius system
Rather than replacing the entire system, we integrated a new Sigenergy 8kW inverter, 13kW of Jinko 510W solar panels, and 16kWh of lithium battery storage alongside the existing equipment.
The key component was the Sigenergy Gateway, which allows the new and existing systems to communicate and share household loads. That meant the proven Selectronic and Fronius equipment could continue operating while gaining the benefits of modern lithium storage and higher solar production.
A 12kW DC EV charger was also included, allowing the owners to charge their electric vehicle directly from the off-grid system.
More Solar, Lithium Storage and EV Charging Without a Full Replacement
The upgrade replaces ageing lead-acid batteries with lithium storage while increasing the property’s solar generation and adding EV charging capability.
The owners are also planning to use their electric vehicle for vehicle-to-home backup in the future, giving the property another source of stored energy during extended periods of poor weather. By integrating the existing equipment rather than replacing it, the upgrade delivers more capability while making the most of infrastructure already in place.
