Introduction
In remote areas without access to the electrical grid, restaurants face unique challenges in securing a reliable and efficient power source. Recently, our team had the opportunity to optimize a completely off-grid Victron system for a restaurant located in such a remote location. The project included the installation of a 16 kWh Sunvault battery and multiple adjustments to maximize the performance and safety of the entire system, providing the owners with the peace of mind and energy autonomy necessary to operate the business.
CHALLENGE
The client, a company with a restaurant in an isolated area, initially contacted us to purchase a 16 kWh battery because the existing system, based on gel batteries, was unable to store enough energy to cover the necessary consumption.
On site, we discovered several irregularities:
- Problems with the MPPT: One of the MPPTs (from another company) was malfunctioning, going into protection due to excessive voltage on the PV strings.
- Damaged Batteries: We identified two swollen and overcharged gel batteries, which were endangering the entire system and unbalancing the existing configuration.
- Messy wiring: The panel configuration and connections between components were disorganized, affecting the efficiency of the system.
Implemented solutions
To fix the problems and optimize performance, we performed the following interventions:
- Replacing the undersized MPPTWe installed a 250V/60A Victron MPPT, eliminating the problem of high voltage on the strings and ensuring more efficient management of the solar panels.
- Reconfiguring PV strings To better organize connections and increase safety, we mounted MC4 connectors on each string and created distribution boxes for parallel connection of PV strings.
- Sunvault Battery IntegrationWe connected the Sunvault LiFePO4 battery in parallel with the existing batteries, eliminating four damaged gel batteries from the system. The inverter was configured on LiFePO4 mode, with charge and current limits set via Cerbo GX and DVCC:
- Maximum charging voltage: 56.5V.
- Maximum charging current: 150A.
- Remote monitoring and controlWe installed Cerbo GX, connecting the Sunvault battery via CAN-bus. This allows real-time monitoring of system parameters, such as cell temperature, voltage and state of charge.
- Optimization for specific customer consumptionAfter optimization, the system can store enough energy to support the average consumption of the restaurant (500W/hour during the night), with another 50% of the battery SOC available in the morning.
BENEFITS
- Advanced monitoringCerbo GX offers the possibility to decide when to turn on the generator to supplement energy on days with less sun. It also allows planning system expansion based on consumption data collected at different times of the year.
- Increased efficiency and safetyReconfiguring the PV strings and optimizing the connections increased the system’s performance, eliminating the risks associated with damaged batteries.
- Energy autonomyWith the new Sunvault battery and updated configuration, the restaurant is energy-secure even in difficult conditions, reducing dependence on the generator.
Why choose Sunvault?
At Sunvault, we not only produce high-quality batteries, but we also offer personalized technical support for their integration into complex systems. All our batteries are manufactured locally, in Romania, which ensures:
- Guaranteed quality: We know exactly what cells and materials we use.
- Fast service: In case of problems, the batteries are repaired locally, within the 10-year warranty period.
Conclusion
Optimizing renewable energy systems is not just about performance, but also about safety and reliability. If you have a similar project or need batteries for storage, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to offer you personalized and efficient solutions for any type of system!
Visit www.sunvault.ro for more details!
