Q1: What is an ESS?
An Energy Storage System (ESS) is a collection of batteries, inverter(s), and other components that allow the storage of energy for later use. The term is most often used in conjunction with on-grid systems with batteries but could also be applied to off-grid systems. Many jurisdictions require UL9540 certification, which involves stringent safety tests for the battery and inverter as a pair with specific configurations.

Q2: What are the components of a typical ESS?
A typical ESS includes batteries, a hybrid inverter, a solar charge controller (usually bundled in the inverter), and solar panels. Additionally, it involves many smaller components (known as the balance of system) required for proper and safe setup, such as wires, conduit, solar panel mounting hardware, switches, and fuses.

Q3: Where does an ESS get the energy it stores?
An ESS can store energy from various sources, with the most common being solar. However, it can also use energy from wind power, hydro power, generators, and the grid. An EG4 ESS is specifically designed to focus on energy from solar and the grid, as well as AC coupling (generators).

Q4: Why should I use an ESS?
Using an ESS allows you to store energy from renewable sources for times when the primary source is unavailable, power loads during grid outages, and shift grid usage to off-peak hours for cost savings and grid stability. This practice, known as peak shaving, helps balance demand and alleviate strain on the grid during peak periods.

Q5: Can an ESS do both load shifting and backup for grid outage?
Yes, an ESS can be configured for either load shifting, grid outage backup, or a balance of both, depending on the system's setup.

Q6: Can load shifting include selling stored power back to the grid during peak load times?
Yes, using a grid-interactive hybrid inverter, an ESS can be programmed to sell back stored power to the grid at any time, which can be financially advantageous depending on the net metering program available from your utility.

Q7: What ESS systems does EG4 offer?
EG4 offers systems that have been independently certified to pass safety and configuration standards using batteries and hybrid inverters. These systems are designed to work safely and efficiently with various energy sources.

Q8: Can I add EG4 batteries and inverters to my existing solar system and classify it as EG4 ESS?
Yes, you can integrate EG4-certified batteries and inverters with your existing solar system and classify it as an EG4 ESS. Technical support is available for more information.

Q9: What if my energy needs change in the future? Can I buy more inverters and batteries and still comply with the UL standards and regulations?
The EG4 system is scalable, allowing you to add more batteries and inverters in the future as your energy needs grow while still maintaining compliance with UL standards and regulations.

Spec Sheet: View Here

Certification: View Here

Package Includes:

• EG4 PowerPro WallMount AllWeather Lithium Battery | 48V 280Ah | 14.3kWh LiFePO4 | All-Weather Energy Storage | UL1973, UL9540A
• EG4 18KPV Hybrid Inverter | All-In-One Solar Inverter | 18000W PV Input | 12000W Output | 48V 120/240V Split Phase | EG4-18KPV-12LV
• EG4 PowerPro Conduit Box
• For 2x Option: EG4 PowerPro Battery Paralleling Cables

EG18Kpv Manual: View Here

EG4 PowerPro Manual: View Here

Notice:

• Systems with more batteries than these configurations are still possible (Such as the 5:1 configuration pictured above). But, require the use of an external fused positive busbar and an unfused negative busbar rated at a minimum of 200A per battery. Each fuse should be a maximum of 250A. Alternatively, larger systems could rely on the 18kPV’s ability to draw from different battery packs while still paralleling inverters rather than utilizing external busbars.
• When relying on the internal integrated busbars, up to 3 batteries are supported in parallel when connected to a single inverter or 4 batteries in parallel when connected to 2 inverters, or up to 5 batteries in parallel when connected to 3 inverters. See section 8.2 in the PowerPro manual for more information.