EG4 GridBOSS with off-grid inverters?

[solarenvy]

I understand the new GridBOSS is intended for use with hybrid, grid-tied inverters (12kpv, 18kpv, FlexBOSS21). The documentation also states possible damage to off-grid inverters. I believe this is due to the bidirectional nature of AC to support grid tie functions. I get it.

However, I'm an "art of the possible" kind of guy and was hoping to understand the specifics of this design decision. The GridBOSS looks like it would be a great component addition for off-grid setups as well (thinking 6000XP, 12000XP specifically), at the very least to streamline the design and reduce cost/clutter (not to mention the market it would open up for the GridBOSS).

So, questions for @EG4 Electronics James @EG4TechSolutionsTeam --

1) can you elaborate on the specifics of supporting hybrid, grid-tie systems only?
2) any thoughts on expanding support to 6000XP and/or 12000XP off-grid systems?
3) while not officially supported, what can technically be done?
4) should we expect an off-grid version of FlexBOSS in the future?

Thanks!

 

[EG4TechSolutionsTeam]

Currently, the hybrid ports on the GridBoss take advantage of the bi-directional grid input that allows power to be "sold" to the grid or charge battery power.



Unfortunately, I do not have more information on if we are expanding to support the off-grid line with the GridBoss or if an off-grid version of the GridBoss is being developed. However, we are always testing new ideas to improve our product line.

 

[TOU47]

So... to be clear, it WILL NOT work with 12,000XP?

I am 100% off-grid already am still running a 6500EX & 6 LifePower4's while we are building our new home. For the new home, we already have an 18kPV & 1 PowerPro but going to 3. I need a second inverter to run each battery type...but thought the GridBoss might manage everything.

I would prefer the 12,000XP due to cost rather than paying for items that I don't need. I.E. I already have more items on my 18kPV that will likely never be used. I think the 12kPV's & FlexBoss21 are also overkill for my off-grid/not-grid-tied needs.

 

[Adam De Lay]

So... to be clear, it WILL NOT work with 12,000XP?

I am 100% off-grid already am still running a 6500EX & 6 LifePower4's while we are building our new home. For the new home, we already have an 18kPV & 1 PowerPro but going to 3. I need a second inverter to run each battery type...but thought the GridBoss might manage everything.

I would prefer the 12,000XP due to cost rather than paying for items that I don't need. I.E. I already have more items on my 18kPV that will likely never be used. I think the 12kPV's & FlexBoss21 are also overkill for my off-grid/not-grid-tied needs.

No, it’s not designed to work with any off-grid inverter as you’re supposed to “feed” the gridboss from the AC in port of the inverter. Power is supposed to flow in both directions on the inverter ports.

 

[TOU47]

So maybe it would be nice to have an "Off-GridBoss" to be able to integrate things easier & make install easier with many of the F&B's. Yes, you can do with out... but it might be nice especially at a lesser price point.

 

[Adam De Lay]

So maybe it would be nice to have an "Off-GridBoss" to be able to integrate things easier & make install easier with many of us F&B's. Yes, you can do with out... but it might be nice especially at a lesser price point.

“Not that we can talk about right now…”

 

[Quattrohead]

At the moment an off-grid boss is called a small breaker panel you combine the outputs with.

 

[TOU47]

At the moment an off-grid boss is called a small breaker panel you combine the outputs with.

Yes & no...

 

[TOU47]

“Not that we can talk about right now…”

Ummm...I already talking about it.

Better yet, something for all us early adopter Off-gridders that bought the 18kPV's & PowerPros...upgrading from the illustrious 6500EX & the awesome LifePower4's that are looking to integrate the 2 batteries & one of the latest off-grid inverter options...without starting over every 18 months.