What would you guys like to see in a video covering the ep cube system? What would you guys like to see tested?
Personally, I strongly downrate any device that requires
1. requires Internet connectivity, and
2. worse if it requires WiFi (I'll run Ethernet cable, thank you very much. I get why most consumers don't want to bother with security and reliability of Ethernet over WiFi, but being forced to use WiFi is really bad security practice).
I get using 'cloud' for reporting (as easier than maintaining storage on every device deployed).. even if I don't like it. [IT security background] So +1 rating for entirely self-contained onsite.
I know initial EP Cube video is already out. But to address the general question about what to test, comparison, etc, first my perspective/context (especially for those that think this outside the DIY space).
This site is a major resource for all things solar energy related, not just DIY. So a question for Will to answer for himself, is addressing the larger solar system homeowner market (presumably on the more DIY / mix-'n-match components approach). Apologies if this has been addressed elsewhere on this site, but I see a market need for info/guidance/recommendations for those who already installed solar (including those like me with full turn-key installs), and are considering next steps (beyond simply adding panels)
- For example, my micro-inverter panel AC system is grid tied (NEM 2.0 in CA). And there is the 10%/1kW increase in capacity allowed before being rescheduled (into NEM 3.0). I don't have a battery system, yet. My presumption is that the DC MPPT input on grid-tie inverters don't apply to me (at this point).
So, questions I'll be looking to answer
- at what point does a battery system make sense (under NEM 2.0, I get close to free use of grid as 'battery'). A battery becomes a power-outage backup, and a time-shift consumption device. My understanding is that for now, it is unlikely I'd be able to get a battery to pay for itself with time-shifting (though I'd love to know how to figure that out).
- In my situation, (non-curtailment circuit, power outages are rare, and I have AVR battery backups in every room for entertainment, computer, and network gear), I'm suspecting waiting for solid state batteries may make sense (ie no urgency, and no financial incentive)??
- But I'm annoyed with local power utility enough that getting something like this EP Cube, or the EG4 PowerWall (or similar/whatever comes next) is front and center on my radar. Any good excuse may well be enough
why annoyed? local util (SDG&E still can't properly bill NEM 2.0 according to their own CSRs. In my case after months of errors, they finally broke out gas and electric into separate bills ... complete incompetence)... anyway
As for a comparison review, the EG4 PowerWall is highly tempting for me. From your EP Cube video I got the comment about maturity of the User Interface. And that maturity/usability has value (a fair amount, for me.. I have better things to do in my life than be a BETA tester for someone else). But I've seen lots of questions, but not much in the way of solid answers as to what else, if anything, justifies the price differential from the EG4 PowerWall to the EP Cube (or Tesla). a couple of years ago, this is something I'd have probably looked to Solar Surge for such a comparison, but their change of focus means they don't anymore. This is an area you could possibly step into?
for the grid-tie systems, and number of PEBKAC users, I get why vendors insist on certified installations for warranty. But having the option is always preferred. so, in your comparison/reviews, discussion of overly restrictive installation conditions would be appreciated
As for a whole home battery, one thing I'm keeping an eye on (losely) is avoiding loss from AC DC conversion, and DC EV charging.
- I've read the threads on why Level 3 (DC) charging at home isn't practical. But... does that change when battery storage like EP Cube is 240v? or next generation? If/when batteries are 480v, does DC / Level 3 charging become practical? or, is this a case of 'by the time that happens, likely on new battery tech, and not really a market-driving issue'? Or is this a case of silly user... slower charging better for EV (and most other) batteries, so why degrade them with Level 3 charging when you don't have to?
on a geek level, I'd love it to see a whole house battery solution that could run DC EV charging, even if at lower Amp levels to bypass conversion loss. for the mass-market, is that maybe 5-10 years down the road? or never? or?
Related to grid-tie system, but probably its own subject - It would be nice (and probably not in utility company's interests) if in market like CA with NEM, to come up with something akin to the DOCSIS cable modem standard in that a grid-tie hybrid inverter that the utility company can control export settings. In that way, homeowners could add panels above their NEM generation limits, but not be at risk of over-export (agreement violation).
www.epcube.com
