Sol-Ark 15k confusion

[workaholic]

I am seeing 2 different 15k's (non-EMP models). One is the std model 120/240 2P and the other is a limitless with all the 2P functionality, but it also has 208 3P capability. I am also seeing 2 different spec sheets. One shows 17kw pv max and the other shows 19.5kw pv max.

Any insight on this?

17kw spec sheet:

https://currentconnected-wpimg.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/2022/06/21121615/Sol-Ark-15K-Specs.pdf

19.5kw spec sheet:

https://mwands.net/pdf_files/sol-ark/15K-2P_SpecSheet.pdf

 

[Lt.Dan]

Without looking deep into it, the first thing that comes to mind is that upon first release, the 15k was derated because they didn't have much data to support its actual capabilities. A software update unlocked more later on, and they have since made several revisions to their user manual.

For this reason, it is always best to get the Manual/Spec sheet directly from their website, instead of any 3rd party links like you have above.

According to their website, and AFAIK, there is only 1 model, the "15k-LV" which has the commonly used SKU: "15k-2p".

The 15k-2p is capable of 208 3ph with more than 1 unit.

EDIT: 3 Phase Info in their Manual from their website: https://www.sol-ark.com/wp-content/uploads/15K-2P_Manual.pdf

 

[glandpuck]

This is what I know: If you purchase a Sol-Ark15K, the model on the box should be 15k-2P. That is the latest hardware. It could have a manufacturer date from early 2023. But the firmware may be current. Even if the firmware is not current, as long as the physical model is 15k-2p you will have the firmware upgraded to the latest version which will upgrade to the latest power specifications that are available.
The manual in the box of the inverter is printed by Sol-Ark and placed in the box. This could be from December, 2023 or even later depending on when they, Sol-Ark shipped the inverter to their distributor.
If you are not certain, then before accepting delivery, you can telephone Sol-Ark technical support and provide the model number and SN on the box to confirm if the model is current or not.

208V is available for 3 phase if you connect them in parallel x 3. Otherwise one inverter is 120/240 split phase in USA.

 

[Jose_Sol-Ark]

Hi @glandpuck, adding to your post, it is also possible to do 120/208V with only one Sol-Ark 15K and using two phases from the grid. In this scenario, the parallel communication must not be enabled.

 

[glandpuck]

Hi @glandpuck, adding to your post, it is also possible to do 120/208V with only one Sol-Ark 15K and using two phases from the grid. In this scenario, the parallel communication must not be enabled.

USA is split phase 120/240. 208 is 3 phase. Three phases is different wave forms that split phase. Three phase requires 3 SA inverters and then I think you could wire a 120V and your 208V. Remember, they don't all have to be SA15, could be SA12.

 

[Jose_Sol-Ark]

USA is split phase 120/240. 208 is 3 phase. Three phases is different wave forms that split phase. Three phase requires 3 SA inverters and then I think you could wire a 120V and your 208V. Remember, they don't all have to be SA15, could be SA12.

Yes, I know that split phase and 3-Phase are different, what I'm trying to say is that it is possible to program and use only one inverter in 3-Phase by using only 2 of the 3 phases. In this way, you can connect a Sol-Ark to a 3-Phase grid and have 120V (L-N) and 208V (L-L). This applies to either 12K or 15K. It is also possible to use a 2 inverter system programmed in 3-Phase, in this case, you can use all the 3 phases but it will be an unbalanced 3-Phase system.

 

[glandpuck]

I took a look at my Sol-Ark 15k manual. When the wiring diagrams are for 120/208V, the units are 2 in parallel plus micro inverters or 3 in parallel.

You would be almost better off just installing a 3 phase 30K Sol-Ark beast and getting your 120/208 that way.

 

[PunchySunshine]

I took a look at my Sol-Ark 15k manual. When the wiring diagrams are for 120/208V, the units are 2 in parallel plus micro inverters or 3 in parallel.

You would be almost better off just installing a 3 phase 30K Sol-Ark beast and getting your 120/208 that way.

You need high voltage batteries for the 30k.

 

[glandpuck]

You need high voltage batteries for the 30k.

If that is the case, there are BYD high voltage stacks. But unless the high voltage BMS also supports paralleling of the stacks, then you will have very limited kW capacity because you will rapidly exceed the voltage limits.

 

[Keston_Sol-Ark]

If that is the case, there are BYD high voltage stacks. But unless the high voltage BMS also supports paralleling of the stacks, then you will have very limited kW capacity because you will rapidly exceed the voltage limits.

For the Sol-Ark 30K and 60K inverters, the HV batteries require close loop communication with an integrated battery partner with a verified HV battery model. Sol-Ark has a HV battery solution (L3 series) which can be used with 30K and 60K!