Inverters that support high voltage (500v) storage batteries

[Solar Guppy]

Is this a plug and play solution? Ie the hitens battery communicates with the s6 workout any programming?

Yes, the Seplos Hitens communication is plug and play with the Solis S6, Seplos worked directly with Solis so this was a official effort.

The selection in the Solis battery menu option is "Lithium HV" and in the Seplos HIten it is "Ginlong CAN HV V1.0"

Attached are screen captures of the menus from the Solis Android App and the Seplos PC app

 

[realpinochet]

I'm surprised Sandi Inverter wasn't mentioned yet.
They are at the top of my list if/when the addiction drives me to high voltage packs.

They ,sandi, have plug and play batteries to that seem fairly affordable. This is one reason I've been holding off on buying a whole house solution, I really want a LF / HV solution. I believe they are working on making the solution easier to install. I was kinda wishing Schneider was going to bring to market a larger updated version of the XP with HV and all the built in breakers.

 

[Rational]

Thanks everyone for the input. Grateful.

I'm still researching hard as I want to place an order for an inverter on the 1st of August if I can find the best brand/model to buy.

I plan to install a Leaf battery pack so will need to use an inverter that supports HV battery packs of up to 400v. So that limits the models to only a few on Dala's list posted above.

I also heard that it will never get certified for grid tie with a Leaf battery attached anyway, right? So that pretty much makes my decision to be off grid already a foregone conclusion, right?

Or should I still try to get an inverter that could be certified should I ever remove the Leaf battery and go with something that is approved? Probably not a bad idea to do this if at all possible if I can.

But...

I think I'm finally understanding the difference between single phase, split phase the three phase inverters. Each phase is just one more 100-120v channel of output? So do I have to balance my loads on each phase when in use to be somewhat close in order for the inverter not to freak out?

If not, then I could just run half of the outlets on each channel separately for normal 100-120v loads?

So if I'm off grid anyway, I guess it doesn't matter that I'd need to stick with a single phase inverter anymore? I could just choose any brand and any of the three? Single phase, split phase or 3 phase inverter and just distribute the outlets equally between the phases? Or what am I not understanding here?

All my devices are either Japanese 100v/60hz or USA 120v/60hz.

If so, a three phase inverter would give me the ability to run heavy duty equipment in my garage shop like welders, etc., right? Then regular 100v outlets as well if I split up the phases?

IF so, then it might be easier to go with a split phase or three phase model, perhaps? More options that way it seems.

Perhaps there's a YT video that explains this easily I could find with more effort...

I guess if I'm off grid I also wouldn't be limited to having to find an inverter that supports 105v/210v 60hz output to match Japan's West grid system here.

@Daddy Tanuki You also mentioned not to go over 10k for an inverter as Japan will then demand that I sell all my power back to them if grid tied?

That's not a limitation if I'm off grid as they won't care, right? Also, is it nowadays 20k as per the below link?
https://www.jet.or.jp/en/products/protection/index.html seems to indicate that it is now up to 20k certification available

 

[Daddy Tanuki]

Thanks everyone for the input. Grateful.

I'm still researching hard as I want to place an order for an inverter on the 1st of August if I can find the best brand/model to buy.

I plan to install a Leaf battery pack so will need to use an inverter that supports HV battery packs of up to 400v. So that limits the models to only a few on Dala's list posted above.

I also heard that it will never get certified for grid tie with a Leaf battery attached anyway, right? So that pretty much makes my decision to be off grid already a foregone conclusion, right?

Or should I still try to get an inverter that could be certified should I ever remove the Leaf battery and go with something that is approved? Probably not a bad idea to do this if at all possible if I can.

But...

I think I'm finally understanding the difference between single phase, split phase the three phase inverters. Each phase is just one more 100-120v channel of output? So do I have to balance my loads on each phase when in use to be somewhat close in order for the inverter not to freak out?

If not, then I could just run half of the outlets on each channel separately for normal 100-120v loads?

So if I'm off grid anyway, I guess it doesn't matter that I'd need to stick with a single phase inverter anymore? I could just choose any brand and any of the three? Single phase, split phase or 3 phase inverter and just distribute the outlets equally between the phases? Or what am I not understanding here?

All my devices are either Japanese 100v/60hz or USA 120v/60hz.

If so, a three phase inverter would give me the ability to run heavy duty equipment in my garage shop like welders, etc., right? Then regular 100v outlets as well if I split up the phases?

IF so, then it might be easier to go with a split phase or three phase model, perhaps? More options that way it seems.

Perhaps there's a YT video that explains this easily I could find with more effort...

I guess if I'm off grid I also wouldn't be limited to having to find an inverter that supports 105v/210v 60hz output to match Japan's West grid system here.

@Daddy Tanuki You also mentioned not to go over 10k for an inverter as Japan will then demand that I sell all my power back to them if grid tied?

That's not a limitation if I'm off grid as they won't care, right? Also, is it nowadays 20k as per the below link?
https://www.jet.or.jp/en/products/protection/index.html seems to indicate that it is now up to 20k certification available

offgrid is offgrid. If you are tied into them on a sell back contract you cannot go over 10k panels. if you do, then you have to sell everything to them and can then buy back at whatever the going price is. definitely a losing proposition if you ask me. if you are totally offgrid then it matter not. i was originally shooting for a possible grid tie, and decided against ti so I was initially designing my system to match that rule among others.

what is the largest load you plan on powering? a well pump, an extra large split pack? if you are powering either of those then I would go with a split phase inverter that puts out 240 split phase. run half of the circuits to one phase and half of the circuits to the other phase. attempt to put things of like draw against each other to balance if they come on at same time. i use split phase as its easier to find an efficient splitpack in 200 volt then it is in 100. that plus my drill press and sandblast cabinet evacuator are all 240 split phase. so it was a no brainer for me. if the largest thing you run is a fridge, or a smallish (8 tatami size) split pack then single phase is fine and easier in some ways. if you want to run a large one, you need the 200/240 split phase. remember if your inverter is 240 it will not hurt a thing, the motors will actually run cooler as they need less amps at that votage. going the other way is bad juju. so a US fridge on japanese power, the compressor works harder at a higher amperage draw and therefore runs hotter as well. eventually burning up the motor.

so running japanese appliances on a US inverter is not a problem, its actually a blessing in disguise.

 

[Rational]

offgrid is offgrid. If you are tied into them on a sell back contract you cannot go over 10k panels. if you do, then you have to sell everything to them and can then buy back at whatever the going price is. definitely a losing proposition if you ask me. if you are totally offgrid then it matter not. i was originally shooting for a possible grid tie, and decided against ti so I was initially designing my system to match that rule among others.

what is the largest load you plan on powering? a well pump, an extra large split pack? if you are powering either of those then I would go with a split phase inverter that puts out 240 split phase. run half of the circuits to one phase and half of the circuits to the other phase. attempt to put things of like draw against each other to balance if they come on at same time. i use split phase as its easier to find an efficient splitpack in 200 volt then it is in 100. that plus my drill press and sandblast cabinet evacuator are all 240 split phase. so it was a no brainer for me. if the largest thing you run is a fridge, or a smallish (8 tatami size) split pack then single phase is fine and easier in some ways. if you want to run a large one, you need the 200/240 split phase. remember if your inverter is 240 it will not hurt a thing, the motors will actually run cooler as they need less amps at that votage. going the other way is bad juju. so a US fridge on japanese power, the compressor works harder at a higher amperage draw and therefore runs hotter as well. eventually burning up the motor.

so running japanese appliances on a US inverter is not a problem, its actually a blessing in disguise.

Excellent scoop. Thank you.

I'll just stay off grid with my DIY stuff for my garage workshop. Sounds like a lot less headache and I can upsize it as I need.

Sounds like we both had the same original intent but fortunately I can leverage your experience being further down the path.

I will then begin now to change my plans away from a single phase inverter and research split phase models. Want one that handles 400v storage batteries though.

So, just so I'm clear, 240v means a US model or are EU model inverters an option with some benefits? And does that mean a three phase at all as an option? I plan to run some large equipment in my garage shop on this eventually. Like a 200v+ welder. Perhaps get a plasma CNC someday, 200v splitpack AC unit., etc.

 

[Daddy Tanuki]

Excellent scoop. Thank you.

I'll just stay off grid with my DIY stuff for my garage workshop. Sounds like a lot less headache and I can upsize it as I need.

Sounds like we both had the same original intent but fortunately I can leverage your experience being further down the path.

I will then begin now to change my plans away from a single phase inverter and research split phase models. Want one that handles 400v storage batteries though.

So, just so I'm clear, 240v means a US model or are EU model inverters an option with some benefits? And does that mean a three phase at all as an option? I plan to run some large equipment in my garage shop on this eventually. Like a 200v+ welder. Perhaps get a plasma CNC someday, 200v splitpack AC unit., etc.

eu models are technically 230 single phase not 240 split phase huge difference. 240 split phase is made up of two legs of 120 that are 180deg out of phase with each other. the end reuslt is 240 when you bridge across L1 and L2. if you go L1 to neutral (N) or L2 to N then you only get 120. which is why you run half of your items on one leg, the other half on the other leg, and all of you 200 (JN spec) 240 US off of L1 and L2 to get your 200 or 240.

edit for clarity. with 230 volts single phase EU style there is no L1, L2 voltage so you cannot get 120 or 110 from it without a separate transformer. some things will run on it if they are truly 240 all the way through the unit, but if say one control board needs 120 and the rest is all 240 it will not work. (it will fry immediately)

 

[Rational]

eu models are technically 230 single phase not 240 split phase huge difference. 240 split phase is made up of two legs of 120 that are 180deg out of phase with each other. the end reuslt is 240 when you bridge across L1 and L2. if you go L1 to neutral (N) or L2 to N then you only get 120. which is why you run half of your items on one leg, the other half on the other leg, and all of you 200 (JN spec) 240 US off of L1 and L2 to get your 200 or 240.

edit for clarity. with 230 volts single phase EU style there is no L1, L2 voltage so you cannot get 120 or 110 from it without a separate transformer. some things will run on it if they are truly 240 all the way through the unit, but if say one control board needs 120 and the rest is all 240 it will not work. (it will fry immediately)

Thanks DT. Sounds like I should probably stay away from an EU and 3 phase inverters for now based on my limited knowledge and experience.

For my main house I'm thinking I may just go with a SRNE Japan certified 48v 12k unit. One each for our duplex. That way I'm in spec and can be safer at the residence. HESP48120U200-H Good choice?

But for our second shop location I plan to still experiment with an HV ESS hybrid inverter that supports connecting my spare nissan leaf 24kWh battery pack. Since it's all enclosed and has a removeable HV fuse it's actually pretty safe for me to connect as I don't have to open up the battery pack shell at all. So can connect everything and just put in the fuse last. Clean. And the cost to benefit ratio is sky high as I only paid like a few hundred for the pack.

Current problem is sourcing good suppliers to order from and how to handle the logistics.

 

[Rational]

Yes, the Seplos Hitens communication is plug and play with the Solis S6, Seplos worked directly with Solis so this was a official effort.

The selection in the Solis battery menu option is "Lithium HV" and in the Seplos HIten it is "Ginlong CAN HV V1.0"

Attached are screen captures of the menus from the Solis Android App and the Seplos PC app

View attachment 224975 View attachment 224976

Hey Solar Guppy,
I'm about to pull the trigger on an S6 11.4k real soon if all is in order.

Got a couple of questions for you if you don't mind.

1. How do you like it? Any major or minor issues?

2. Did you get it with the wifi dongle? Necessary? Works well? What about the Tigo option? Trying to choose which package to get as I don't use APC and that seems to be the standard offering.

I plan to use mine with Dala's battery emulator and a 24kWh Nissan Leaf battery. Off grid.

3. I was wondering if I can still have it connected to AC to power the unit and charge the batteries that way with no risk of it trying to feed the grid?
I just asked Solis US support and they said I could do this but didn't give any specifics on how I would wire it. Is there only one AC input? Is it just the grid input?

They also said I could adjust the output voltage down from 120v to 105v for use here in Japan but it would lower the total output of the inverter. Which is fine. Just curious where in the settings is this possible? Is it in increments of 1v I wonder?

Thanks. Appreciate any answers you are willing to provide from first hand experience.

Edit: Oh, I missed this earlier reply of yours. Or forgot. "The Solis S6 ( S6-EH1P11.4K-H-US ) is completely configurable on all parameters for the grid profile and should work for the Japan voltages and frequencies but no idea on the rules for being gridtie in that country."

Still curious what the settings page looks like and if it's editable in 1v increments if you know. Thanks again.

 

[Solar Guppy]

Hey Solar Guppy,
I'm about to pull the trigger on an S6 11.4k real soon if all is in order.

Got a couple of questions for you if you don't mind.

1. How do you like it? Any major or minor issues?

2. Did you get it with the wifi dongle? Necessary? Works well? What about the Tigo option? Trying to choose which package to get as I don't use APC and that seems to be the standard offering.

I plan to use mine with Dala's battery emulator and a 24kWh Nissan Leaf battery. Off grid.

3. I was wondering if I can still have it connected to AC to power the unit and charge the batteries that way with no risk of it trying to feed the grid?
I just asked Solis US support and they said I could do this but didn't give any specifics on how I would wire it. Is there only one AC input? Is it just the grid input?

They also said I could adjust the output voltage down from 120v to 105v for use here in Japan but it would lower the total output of the inverter. Which is fine. Just curious where in the settings is this possible? Is it in increments of 1v I wonder?

Thanks. Appreciate any answers you are willing to provide from first hand experience.

1) No issues at all, best inverter on the market and 1/3rd the cost of what most here seem to talk about IMHO

2) The dongle is included as are the CT's, no extra costs ( us market ones ), it comes with either a Tigo or APC, doesn't matter as its an open standard for RSD

3) You will have to have a BMS that talks a supported standard. This is the protocol that is "Lithium HV" from the battery options on the S6. I found this to be the lowest cost the battery option: Seplos Hiten and plug and play, I would NOT recommend trying to build your own for this inverter.

As for charging, Solar or AC input, like any Hybrid. Note if there is large load changes on the backup port or solar input, it is possible for short duration energy to go to the grid port

 

[Rational]

1) No issues at all, best inverter on the market and 1/3rd the cost of what most here seem to talk about IMHO

2) The dongle is included as are the CT's, no extra costs ( us market ones ), it comes with either a Tigo or APC, doesn't matter as its an open standard for RSD

3) You will have to have a BMS that talks a supported standard. This is the protocol that is "Lithium HV" from the battery options on the S6. I found this to be the lowest cost the battery option: Seplos Hiten and plug and play, I would NOT recommend trying to build your own for this inverter.

As for charging, Solar or AC input, like any Hybrid. Note if there is large load changes on the backup port or solar input, it is possible for short duration energy to go to the grid port

Thank you. Appreciate the concise, accurate answers.

Do you have a recommendation on which to choose between the Tigo and APC? Thought I might buy Tigo monitors someday for the panels perhaps. But also heard some have caught on fire?

Lastly, any sourcing recommendations? I'm in Japan so don't think I can order from US resellers as the shipping would be too high to Japan, right?


---

To everyone,

Going to share this for others looking at a Solis S6 in case it helps them. And me get any input of course:

Currently got a guy from Sunpal pushing me hard to buy one right now from him. Didn't really find many vendors on alibaba that offer them unfortunately. Overall, he's worked the hardest to get my sale. Lots of back and forth. Great English, and good advice compared to all the others in comparison. Seems accurate and eager to earn the sale.

None of the vendors I asked has them in stock right now sadly. Sunpal said the manufacturer is making more and that I'll have to pay first and then they will order it. It will take 30 days then they will ship it to me.

He's given me a quote of
1 Solis Hybrid Inverter S6-EH1P11.4K-H-US 1 US$1,651.00
DDU Shipping Cost US$245.00
Total Cost US$1,896.00

Sounds reasonable to me. But he want's me to pay them direct via bank wire outside of alibaba.

I'm leery and trying to read up on these aspects now. He's saying that alibaba charges a 16% tax and fee that sunpal will have to pay themselves as they didn't build that tax into my original system quote like other companies do, so if I pay via alibaba he will lose all of his profit.

It is true that we started off with a quote for panels, mounting system, cables, tools, etc. but he has stated he is hearing that Japan may have anti-dumping laws on panels now and so want's me to just buy the inverter by itself for now until he can confirm a Japan shipper.

He originally quoted me $2118 for just the inverter when I very first inquired only for that. (DDU shipping of $245. Inverter price of $1875.)

So a difference of $222. So I guess that sounds right if we started off with just the inverter quote, then it was lowered as part of a whole system build. If he's offering me the kit price for just the inverter until he can sort out the panels and gear for the next order. He does sound sincere.

But this whole paying his citybank account directly has me leery. That a no go? I'd rather just pay the fee even if it's $222 more to get the alibaba assurance, right?

He is saying that if I'm worried about it he will provide me with a "letter of guarantee from Alibaba that it is a valid bank account". Which he has already sent.

Taking all advice here as I only have one successful purchase under my belt with alibaba this month.

 

[SeaGal]

Currently got a guy from Sunpal pushing me hard to buy one right now from him. Didn't really find many vendors on alibaba that offer them unfortunately. Overall, he's worked the hardest to get my sale. Lots of back and forth. Great English, and good advice compared to all the others in comparison. Seems accurate and eager to earn the sale.

None of the vendors I asked has them in stock right now sadly. Sunpal said the manufacturer is making more and that I'll have to pay first and then they will order it. It will take 30 days then they will ship it to me.
...
Sounds reasonable to me. But he want's me to pay them direct via bank wire outside of alibaba.

For me, all those bits I put in bold =

Personally, I'd wait until a local company has it in stock and then order on credit card for next day delivery.

 

[ThaiTaffy]

Thank you. Appreciate the concise, accurate answers.

Do you have a recommendation on which to choose between the Tigo and APC? Thought I might buy Tigo monitors someday for the panels perhaps. But also heard some have caught on fire?

Lastly, any sourcing recommendations? I'm in Japan so don't think I can order from US resellers as the shipping would be too high to Japan, right?


---

To everyone,

Going to share this for others looking at a Solis S6 in case it helps them. And me get any input of course:

Currently got a guy from Sunpal pushing me hard to buy one right now from him. Didn't really find many vendors on alibaba that offer them unfortunately. Overall, he's worked the hardest to get my sale. Lots of back and forth. Great English, and good advice compared to all the others in comparison. Seems accurate and eager to earn the sale.

None of the vendors I asked has them in stock right now sadly. Sunpal said the manufacturer is making more and that I'll have to pay first and then they will order it. It will take 30 days then they will ship it to me.

He's given me a quote of
1 Solis Hybrid Inverter S6-EH1P11.4K-H-US 1 US$1,651.00
DDU Shipping Cost US$245.00
Total Cost US$1,896.00

Sounds reasonable to me. But he want's me to pay them direct via bank wire outside of alibaba.

I'm leery and trying to read up on these aspects now. He's saying that alibaba charges a 16% tax and fee that sunpal will have to pay themselves as they didn't build that tax into my original system quote like other companies do, so if I pay via alibaba he will lose all of his profit.

It is true that we started off with a quote for panels, mounting system, cables, tools, etc. but he has stated he is hearing that Japan may have anti-dumping laws on panels now and so want's me to just buy the inverter by itself for now until he can confirm a Japan shipper.

He originally quoted me $2118 for just the inverter when I very first inquired only for that. (DDU shipping of $245. Inverter price of $1875.)

So a difference of $222. So I guess that sounds right if we started off with just the inverter quote, then it was lowered as part of a whole system build. If he's offering me the kit price for just the inverter until he can sort out the panels and gear for the next order. He does sound sincere.

But this whole paying his citybank account directly has me leery. That a no go? I'd rather just pay the fee even if it's $222 more to get the alibaba assurance, right?

He is saying that if I'm worried about it he will provide me with a "letter of guarantee from Alibaba that it is a valid bank account". Which he has already sent.

Taking all advice here as I only have one successful purchase under my belt with alibaba this month.

As @SeaGal suggested I'd only pay via credit card, I've never had much luck with ddu here they have always asked me to pay more once the item hits the local post office for that reason alone I tend to just buy things available locally or through Thai subsidiaries of Ali if I have to order from china.
Have you looked at the Japanese e-commerce sites for stock?

 

[Solar Guppy]

Thank you. Appreciate the concise, accurate answers.

Do you have a recommendation on which to choose between the Tigo and APC? Thought I might buy Tigo monitors someday for the panels perhaps. But also heard some have caught on fire?

I have one of both and use neither . The transmitters are on a DIN rail in the inverter wiring compartment, the intent is only for RSS, either work for that.

Total Cost US$1,896.00

I paid $2300 from thepowerstore including shipping, so your price at least seems high enough that it might be legitimate.

Sounds reasonable to me. But he want's me to pay them direct via bank wire outside of alibaba..

It is true Alibaba is a significant cost on the seller, I could have paid less for the Seplos Hitens if I paid direct, but I choose to use the Alibaba Trade assurance due to the amount of the sale, more than 4X your inverter price. I don't regret paying the extra, and I got the product I expected. You would have to make the decision is the savings worth losing the lower amount vs knowing your 100% backed on the sale to your door step.

I also recommend DDP, so no unexpected charges

 

[HarryN]

Some data centers use DC voltages in the ~ 400 volt range, so there might be inverters that run at that battery voltage as well.

These came up when I did a very quick search using duckduckgo

High voltage DC-AC sine wave inverters accept wide input ranges in rugged industrial applications

High voltage DC-AC inverters convert 600Vdc (450V to 800Vdc) to 115Vac or 230Vac continuous with convection cooling

absopulse.com

Rugged Pure Sinewave DC-AC Inverters

Nova Electric offers pure sinewave DC-AC inverters, power inverters & DC-AC inverter systems to suit any commercial or military application.

novaelectric.com

 

[Rational]

I have one of both and use neither . The transmitters are on a DIN rail in the inverter wiring compartment, the intent is only for RSS, either work for that.




I paid $2300 from thepowerstore including shipping, so your price at least seems high enough that it might be legitimate.



It is true Alibaba is a significant cost on the seller, I could have paid less for the Seplos Hitens if I paid direct, but I choose to use the Alibaba Trade assurance due to the amount of the sale, more than 4X your inverter price. I don't regret paying the extra, and I got the product I expected. You would have to make the decision is the savings worth losing the lower amount vs knowing your 100% backed on the sale to your door step.

I also recommend DDP, so no unexpected charges

Some data centers use DC voltages in the ~ 400 volt range, so there might be inverters that run at that battery voltage as well.

These came up when I did a very quick search using duckduckgo

High voltage DC-AC sine wave inverters accept wide input ranges in rugged industrial applications

High voltage DC-AC inverters convert 600Vdc (450V to 800Vdc) to 115Vac or 230Vac continuous with convection cooling

absopulse.com

Rugged Pure Sinewave DC-AC Inverters

Nova Electric offers pure sinewave DC-AC inverters, power inverters & DC-AC inverter systems to suit any commercial or military application.

novaelectric.com

Thanks again for all the great advice. DDP is out it seems.

Sadly he is saying, "Today, the logistics department informed me again that all duty-free transportation channels to Japan have been stopped. So we can only provide air freight DDU for inverters or CIF for the whole system to the port."

These methods just fine? I'll just have to pay the customs duties when they arrive I guess. So far I've not really found other suppliers for the Solis.

I may order the just inverter separately first via air freight DDU to get a successful purchase from them to begin with. Then order panels later via CIF.

I need to save more funds anyway for the panels and need to validate some things first. Like, if the panels I have in mind will work or be overpowered for this inverter? I just posted this thread for input as well: https://diysolarforum.com/threads/c...these-panels-longi-lr7-72htdr-600-625m.89794/

Lastly, I'm pretty much set at this point to get the Solis S6 11.4 k thanks to your excellent input. But I did hear that the FoxESS FOX H1-11.4-US 11.4kW Split-Phase Hybrid Inverter is almost identical. Did you ever look into them? Thoughts in comparison?

@Daddy Tanuki too for input if you're willing.

Thanks guys. Grateful for all the input. About to order the inverter to get that part moving at least. Probably just hook it up to AC to play with for now as I have no panels. But current building only has a single hot feeding it. This will need two hots to power up, right? I want to see if I can charge my Nissan Leaf with it.

 

[Solar Guppy]

Lastly, I'm pretty much set at this point to get the Solis S6 11.4 k thanks to your excellent input. But I did hear that the FoxESS FOX H1-11.4-US 11.4kW Split-Phase Hybrid Inverter is almost identical. Did you ever look into them? Thoughts in comparison?

Never heard of them before this post. Quick look at data sheet and its 3 mppt channels were the Solis S6 is 4 so its not a Solis under the skin.

 

[Rational]

I have a pair of Solis S6's ( S6-EH1P11.4K-H-US ) running in parallel and think they are the best value available and features one could hope for at a price one third the Sol-Ark or 18kpv commonly discussed on this forum.

I can also confirm that if your HV battery ( or bms ) can do this protocol selected as "Lithium battery HV" from the Solis app battery settings you will have full CAN battery communications. There are of course plug and play options, like the Pylontech H1 or BYD HVL that meet UL9540.

In my case, I'm running the Seplos HItens ( pair in parallel for 40kwh ) just received with are half the cost of the UL9540 options. The Hitens for the Solis S6 come in 10kwh, 15kwh and 20kwh options

I worked with Seplos and Solis to get the CAN communications tested before purchase. I'm also really liking the Seplos provided BMSTool one can configure just about any setting imageable unlike the black box UL9540 options.

View attachment 223107 View attachment 223110

I'm getting pretty excited by these Seplos Hitens 409v packs. Great find! I am ordering my first S6 as a test with a Nissan Leaf 24kWh pack and Dala's battery emulator software. As I only paid $500 bucks for the whole car and upgraded the pack to a 30kWh pack for $700. So I have this extra pack sitting around. But I don't want to use a leaf pack on our main house. So these might be just the ticket! Thank you. Excellent recommendation. How much did you pay for each of yours? And why did you go with two Solis S6 11.4k inverters and not just one?

 

[Solar Guppy]

I am ordering my first S6 as a test with a Nissan Leaf 24kWh pack and Dala's battery emulator software.

I doubt it would work unless they know the BMS ( canbus data ) format Solis uses, I have never seen a DYI BMS on a Solis Hybrid ( HV ) posted on any forum

I'm getting pretty excited by these Seplos Hitens 409v packs , How much did you pay for each of yours?

Same as shown in the link plus shipping

why did you go with two Solis S6 11.4k inverters and not just one?

Whole house backup at shared power levels between the pair equals long term reliability, redundancy and if one does need replacing or fails, automatic fail over. There is a few seconds when communications drops for the remaining one to auto reconfigure if one fails, but no one in the home has to do anything. If you live with others and your the only one that can fix the power system, anything else will be a huge fail.

 

[Daddy Tanuki]

Thanks again for all the great advice. DDP is out it seems.

Sadly he is saying, "Today, the logistics department informed me again that all duty-free transportation channels to Japan have been stopped. So we can only provide air freight DDU for inverters or CIF for the whole system to the port."

These methods just fine? I'll just have to pay the customs duties when they arrive I guess. So far I've not really found other suppliers for the Solis.

I may order the just inverter separately first via air freight DDU to get a successful purchase from them to begin with. Then order panels later via CIF.

I need to save more funds anyway for the panels and need to validate some things first. Like, if the panels I have in mind will work or be overpowered for this inverter? I just posted this thread for input as well: https://diysolarforum.com/threads/c...these-panels-longi-lr7-72htdr-600-625m.89794/

Lastly, I'm pretty much set at this point to get the Solis S6 11.4 k thanks to your excellent input. But I did hear that the FoxESS FOX H1-11.4-US 11.4kW Split-Phase Hybrid Inverter is almost identical. Did you ever look into them? Thoughts in comparison?

@Daddy Tanuki too for input if you're willing.

Thanks guys. Grateful for all the input. About to order the inverter to get that part moving at least. Probably just hook it up to AC to play with for now as I have no panels. But current building only has a single hot feeding it. This will need two hots to power up, right? I want to see if I can charge my Nissan Leaf with it.

I wish I could help more. I would ship CIF. yes it means you need to do the importation part of it, i would go to the customs office now, ask them for their english literature (not sure how much they have, but they do have some.) and start working on the paperwork before you even purchase the items. take a copy of the estimate with all the items on it, they have a staff member whose job is to assist people, but i can tell you that you will need a translator (a japanese friend or spouse will suffice) depending upon your Japanese abilities. I have been here almost 40 years and they came up with some words I had never heard of before as they just are not used in common conversation.

when i started this over a decade ago, i set my sights on the at the time undisputed king of offgrid inverters and that was magnum. Since then they have not really advanced over the last 5 years since sensata bought them out. My system is more or less finished and i had already purchased my inverters and infrastructure, i have not really looked to hard at any of the other options, especially the HF options. granted i bought two of the Sigineer's to use as a dump load but they are not system critical and basically any inverter than can put out 5000 watts fits the bill as all they are powering will be water heater elements there is no real surge requirements or even power factor issues.

 

[Rational]

I doubt it would work unless they know the BMS ( canbus data ) format Solis uses, I have never seen a DYI BMS on a Solis Hybrid ( HV ) posted on any forum


Same as shown in the link plus shipping



Whole house backup at shared power levels between the pair equals long term reliability, redundancy and if one does need replacing or fails, automatic fail over. There is a few seconds when communications drops for the remaining one to auto reconfigure if one fails, but no one in the home has to do anything. If you live with others and your the only one that can fix the power system, anything else will be a huge fail.

Smart. Considering the price of these is so cheap in comparison to a lot of others, I think you have chosen an excellent path.

You're much further ahead of most with these choices it seems. Thanks for the quality input as always. I will do the same then.

Also helps if these go out of production in the next few years, then you already have your spare in line and running.

We have a duplex house here with my daughter. So wonder if I'll need four? Hmmm... We want to have separate power meters for each floor.

As we may rent this duplex out someday. I may have more questions on how you set up the dual inverters later though if you're willing. Thanks again.

 

[Rational]

I wish I could help more. I would ship CIF. yes it means you need to do the importation part of it, i would go to the customs office now, ask them for their english literature (not sure how much they have, but they do have some.) and start working on the paperwork before you even purchase the items. take a copy of the estimate with all the items on it, they have a staff member whose job is to assist people, but i can tell you that you will need a translator (a japanese friend or spouse will suffice) depending upon your Japanese abilities. I have been here almost 40 years and they came up with some words I had never heard of before as they just are not used in common conversation.

when i started this over a decade ago, i set my sights on the at the time undisputed king of offgrid inverters and that was magnum. Since then they have not really advanced over the last 5 years since sensata bought them out. My system is more or less finished and i had already purchased my inverters and infrastructure, i have not really looked to hard at any of the other options, especially the HF options. granted i bought two of the Sigineer's to use as a dump load but they are not system critical and basically any inverter than can put out 5000 watts fits the bill as all they are powering will be water heater elements there is no real surge requirements or even power factor issues.

I was thinking of doing that but was just going to wing it. I'll now go visit them and see what we learn before ordering. At least we won't get sticker shock if the customs duties are way higher than expected upon arrival. I've heard that Japan really wants to increase solar though throughout the country so is allowing solar panel imports. But then also see that almost all imports come from the Phillipines, malaysia and Vietnam for some reason. I have to assume because of import restrictions direct from China? I guess I'll find out when I ask customs here locally directly here soon.

We also have five solar companies visiting us this week. Two already visited. Prices are high as expected. No possibility to add my own batteries to the system later and so far none have English menus on the inverters or batteries. They also want to size it to just what we'll use for power and not a lot more. I have the feeling they'll want a huge increase in price for a large system. Bah! Exactly what I expected... More to come on these visits.

Thanks again.

PS I got here in '88. I thought I was here one of the longest. But you have me beat by a few.

 

[Daddy Tanuki]

I was thinking of doing that but was just going to wing it. I'll now go visit them and see what we learn before ordering. At least we won't get sticker shock if the customs duties are way higher than expected upon arrival. I've heard that Japan really wants to increase solar though throughout the country so is allowing solar panel imports. But then also see that almost all imports come from the Phillipines, malaysia and Vietnam for some reason. I have to assume because of import restrictions direct from China? I guess I'll find out when I ask customs here locally directly here soon.

We also have five solar companies visiting us this week. Two already visited. Prices are high as expected. No possibility to add my own batteries to the system later and so far none have English menus on the inverters or batteries. They also want to size it to just what we'll use for power and not a lot more. I have the feeling they'll want a huge increase in price for a large system. Bah! Exactly what I expected... More to come on these visits.

Thanks again.

PS I got here in '88. I thought I was here one of the longest. But you have me beat by a few.

I arrived on Okinawa in July of 1985 so not by much like I said almost 40 years. you are in the same time frame. I left Oki in 92 right before the rape incident with the corpsman and two (cough) marines. traveled about a bit before settling in kanagawa

 

[Rational]

I arrived on Okinawa in July of 1985 so not by much like I said almost 40 years. you are in the same time frame. I left Oki in 92 right before the rape incident with the corpsman and two (cough) marines. traveled about a bit before settling in kanagawa

Yeah, I remember that incident. Terrible stuff. Oki changed after that. Wished that had never happened and Oki had remained like it was before then...

So we called the customs office yesterday. They said there's no problem on importing solar panels and parts. Tax is likely going to be 10% or even zero. So looks better and better by the day after having talked with and received our first quote tonight from a solar company. They want like $80,000 dollars to install our duplex. Crazy.

 

[Rational]

I doubt it would work unless they know the BMS ( canbus data ) format Solis uses, I have never seen a DYI BMS on a Solis Hybrid ( HV ) posted on any forum


Same as shown in the link plus shipping



Whole house backup at shared power levels between the pair equals long term reliability, redundancy and if one does need replacing or fails, automatic fail over. There is a few seconds when communications drops for the remaining one to auto reconfigure if one fails, but no one in the home has to do anything. If you live with others and your the only one that can fix the power system, anything else will be a huge fail.

Found a possible new contender in addition to the Seplos Hitens. SunPal sent me this info today:

ECO-H SERIES STACKED LITHIUM BATTERY:

192V 50Ah 9.6KWh：USD1960/PC
288V 50Ah 14.4KWh: USD2651/PC
384V 50Ah 19.2KWh: USD3343/PC
480V 50Ah 24KWh: USD4035/PC

"Including high-voltage BMS controller + base support, as well as WIFI and communication wires; Warranty for 10 years"

They are claiming compatibility with Solis as well as Growatt;Deye;Goodwe;Solis;Solax;Afore;Sunpal;etc.

Also claiming UL certification as well as CE,UL1973,UL2054,IEC62619,UN38.3,MSDS.

Seems Canadian Solar has a competitor in the stacked battery arena now. Interesting.

Datasheet attached.

 

[Daddy Tanuki]

Yeah, I remember that incident. Terrible stuff. Oki changed after that. Wished that had never happened and Oki had remained like it was before then...

So we called the customs office yesterday. They said there's no problem on importing solar panels and parts. Tax is likely going to be 10% or even zero. So looks better and better by the day after having talked with and received our first quote tonight from a solar company. They want like $80,000 dollars to install our duplex. Crazy.

I would bet 10%, that's what I have paid each time for batteries anyways. It seems if its something not commonly available then they just charge you the equivalent of sales tax, but if its something that is prevalent here you can get whang'd. be careful of electronics, make sure its listed in a way that makes it obvious that its not locally available. also make sure they know its for personal use and not resale.