DIY solar launches in US – no installers or permits needed (opens in new tab)

(zdnet.com)

6 pointsjakestein1y ago9 comments

9 comments

6 comments · 3 top-level

ethagnawl1y ago· 2 in thread

So, this is feeding electricity back into the grid ... from a wall socket without any other modifications? How is that even possible?

cake-rusk1y ago

What other modifications are needed? The controller can sense the phase using the same socket and sync its output accordingly.

Arnt1y ago

You need a way to turn off the power. Normally there's a fuse/switch where the power enters the building, and that's it.

This kind of PV is popular in the city where I live. I feel queasy about there being sources of power that don't pass the main fuse. I'm sure there are ways to make it safe, but I like the simplicity of having one fuse between power supply and power users.

1 more reply

steveharman1y ago· 1 in thread

Worth noting that despite the relatively impressive battery / storage capacity, I believe there is still an 800W* max limit into the home's AC system from the EcoFlow inverter using this supply method.

Therefore you can forget completely supplying electricity for an oven, kettle or microwave in most cases.

*Due to local regulations: 800W UK, 600W in some parts of Europe - I believe it's 800W in the US but please DYOR.

Having said all that, their existing PowerStream inverter + battery Power Stations work really well and are literally plug & play. I've been running a setup in the UK and it's drastically reduced our electricity consumption from the grid whilst still being a simple plug & play self-install.

futevolei1y ago

Can you share your before and after bills? How long til you break even? What happens if you push 800w but your home is only using 300w? Without a clamp on main panel I don’t think it’s smart enough to know to push only 300 so does 500 go to the grid?

conk1y ago

I like the idea of this product. Simple, safe, plug and play solar should be a thing.

I was looking at this product last week. I remember seeing a photo with a current transformer (CT) in it. Maybe they have the user install a CT on the upstream breaker to ensure the total load for the branch circuit isn’t exceeded. Without that they run into an issue where it could overload the branch circuit wiring.

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