Enphase has recently released a new line of inverters, called IQ8 series Microinverters, that provide quite a few new technological advances.
The most interesting new feature is the Enphase Sunlight Backup system, which keeps essential power going during a grid outage.
The Enphase Sunlight Backup system is a new concept, so let’s discuss the main differences from the traditional solar battery backup system.
What Are The Differences Between Solar Batteries System & Sunlight Backup?
- Cost: Typical Solar Batteries start at $16,000, and Enphase Sunlight Backup costs $7,500
- Capacity: Enphase Sunlight Backup recommends your backup loads do not exceed 30% of the total rated AC output
- Time: Sunlight Backup can only provide backup power during the day with sunlight
- Limitations: Solar Batteries can cover more electrical needs, while Sunlight Backup is meant for essentials only
What Is Enphase Sunlight Backup?
The Enphase Sunlight Backup system provides essential backup power directly to your home when the sun is shining.
The system provides backup power to 4x 204v or 8x 120V circuits, so most homes are compatible. Each Sunlight Backup system consists of IQ8 Microinverters, a system controller, a combiner box, load controllers, and other accessories.
Option One Solar provides the complete Enphase Sunlight Backup system in one package as an easy addition to any new solar panel system.
For this specific configuration, backup energy can be provided using Enphase IQ8 Microinverters while the sun is shining and Enphase IQ8 availability is well in stock. This system does not include any batteries.
Read more about solar battery systems:
The Best Solar Battery Backup: Choose The Best In 2022
Pros and Cons of Solar Battery Storage
Net Zero & The Importance of Solar Panel System Size
What Are IQ8 Microinverters?
Enphase’s newest IQ8 Microinverters are the industry’s first gird-forming microinverters with split-phase power conversion capability to convert DC power to AC power more efficiently.
The Sunlight Backup IQ8 Series Microinverters are the most powerful, software-defined series of microinverters available in the solar market today.
Using breakthrough Burst Mode™ technology, this solar power system can capture more energy in low-light conditions, such as tree shading or dense cloud cover.
What Is An IQ System Controller 2?
The IQ System Controller 2 is installed on the load side of the existing main service panel. Systems with the IQ System Controller 2 are designed for use with an essential loads solution.
Can I Disconnect From The Grid With Sunlight Backup?
Unfortunately, you cannot only rely on Sunlight Backup alone. The Sunlight Backup systems can only support up to four essential load circuits. This requires the installation of two IQ Load Controllers to control all four of the essential load circuits.
You will need to select the essential loads for this backup power solution. Keep in mind that the recommended backup loads should not exceed 30% of the total rated AC output on your solar power system. The Sunlight Backup System can backup up to 4x 240V or 8x 120V circuits. While backing up 4x 240V circuits, it controls each of the backed-up circuits individually. While backing up 8x 120V circuits, the backed-up circuits are divided into 4 groups with 2 circuits each, and the system can control each group individually.
We suggest that your Wi-Fi router and/or modem get the highest priority amongst the essential load circuits. The Sunlight Backup system should only be used for a small number of essential needs in the home.
Using this solar backup solution to supply the entire home will lead to a poor experience and is not recommended by the manufacturer or Option One Solar.
How Will The Sunlight Backup System Provide Power During Grid Failure?
Homeowners benefit from the IQ8’s Sunlight Backup because they get a direct feed from their solar panels to essential appliances in the home. They can effectively bypass the grid if it goes down during daylight hours.
The amount of power available from a Sunlight Backup system depends on the solar irradiance at any given time, which can vary depending on shading, time of year, and other factors.
While running off-grid, the system may shut down if it is not generating enough power. After a shutdown, the system will identify and disconnect the load causing the shutdown.
How Can I Get Sunlight Backup in California?
If you are interested in getting your own solar energy system with Enphase Sunlight Backup, then you’ve come to the right place!
At Option One Solar, we have the best solar options available. We’ve installed thousands of solar energy systems and are a Silver-Level installer for the latest Enphase solar technology.
