Ats

Since my first attempt at solar, I have learnt a few things and several new bits of tech have been introduced into the market. Some of the new tech include; all-in-one inverters, bigger “better” batteries, shingled solar panels and micro-inverters…

New Parts

An all-in-one solar inverters can include the following functions in a single device;

• Solar Controller - MPPT (2x string inputs)
• Inverter - Converts DC (48v) to AC (pure sine wave @230v, 50 hertz)
• Battery Charger -
  • from Grid (AC -> DC)
  • from Solar Panels (DC -> DC)
• ATS / Line mode - Flicks over to Grid if solar or batteries are low
• BMS, Timers and Controls - Can program battery types, priorities and timers depending on how you want to power your loads and utilize your batteries.
• Stats / Alerts - WIFI enabled

Two recent modifications to my solar system have changed the daily generated power considerably.

First section highlighted above - i added the ATS and 24/7 load (this server)

Second section highlighted above - moving the 6 panels from east and west to north facing roof. (only reason i didn’t do this initially is north facing roof is a lot higher and i hate heights!)

By hooking up my ATS in my solar system, I’m nearing the end of my solar experiment. I cannot recommend the ATS (automatic transfer system) more, such a brillient device.

By installing the ATS i am keeping my solar power generated off grid, but with on grid backup for any loads i attach to it. Also keeps me away from any danger introduced by back filling the grid

So i can run a 24/7 load which will automatically flick over to main power when the batteries are low. At the moment i am powering my attached server (the load) approx 33% of the day. I could power my server for longer if i had a larger battery attached to solar. Its currently winter, so sunlight hours are also limited.