Enphase Power Control, add expansion solar and keep NEM1/2

[Arob]

Have you see this?

Enphase Power Control​

I'm intrigued since I have an Enphase system with all the prerequisite components. PV array with IQ7+, 2x 5P batteries, controller, combiner, gateway, CT clamps, etc. I would love to add another array on my carport and double my solar capacity and still limit my grid output and not lose my NEM-2 status.

Has anyone done this? If you watch the video on that page they clearly talk about adding an "expansion system" and not violating the utility rules. You just have to adjust software to set a grid output limit.

 

[Lawrence_SoCal]

I just posted about, including Enphase PDF in this thread https://diysolarforum.com/threads/sdg-e-ca-expand-pv-production-and-stay-on-old-nem.90522/

I talked to solar installer on Monday who says they have done hundreds of these, with a significant backlog. And offered a material referral bonus (which I'm happy to share), if interested

considerations
- you local utility has to allow/support this (supposedly SDG&E running a 'pilot' program, limited installers, etc ... not sure of actually 'pilot' or sales attempt to motivate?)
- I did find a SDG&E URL that might have been about this... but was in PoCo grid language that I wasn't willing to spend too much time trying to decipher
- as best as I can tell, as state level, CPUC NEM rules of typical 10%/1kW expansion limit applies. This Enphase solution appears to be accepted by at least SDGE. The question then, is what other PoCo's are doing the same?

The Enphase doc simply references IQ7/8 inverters, and a Gateway. The solar company I talked to indicted using System Combiner... but I suspect that depends on other considerations. Beware not being able to combine NEM tariffed panel system and expansion panels (supposedly).

so if you are in SDG&E territory, I recommend using my other thread to discuss. If other local PoCo, first step is to find out if they have a program that supports this. If yes, things to find out are
1. Just this Enphase s/w export limit (grid profile) based solution, or others?
2. which local contractors they are working with on this program, or if DIY is allowed?

 

[Arob]

I added a 12 module array to my Enphase system. There is a setting in the app to set the export limit. I set mine to the highest output seen in the last 2 years. So far so good. The export limit works as planned. The added capacity allows me to charge my Tesla while working at home. I'm considering an Enphase charger but I read mixed reviews. Anyone with have experience with Enphase chargers?

 

[Lawrence_SoCal]

Did you DIY, or work with a contractor/permits/PoCo notification, etc?