The 2nd problem with the Envoy besides cost is that it isn't always
reliable. Communication through power lines is not a new or fresh
idea, and has Always been problematic. Once you install something you
are expected to make it work, and that can be a nightmare on say an 8
module system that keeps losing communication to one or two modules.
I've had this exact case, and confirmed multiple times that each micro
was working, but the Envoy had other ideas.
This rush to mega data acquisition makes sense for larger PPA systems,
but can just add tons of call backs and the resulting financial losses
and frustrations for small systems.
I've spent as much time messing with SCADA, as I have with the entire
install itself; now that's ridiculous. This isn't new either: I had
SCADA systems back in the 90s, that had great promise, but ultimately
were extremely hard to implement, and the customer never used after
anyway......
The question is:
What does the customer really need to operate the system vs. "bells and
whistles".....
R.Ray Walters
CTO, Solarray, Inc
Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
Licensed Master Electrician
Solar Design Engineer
303 505-8760
On 9/29/2014 12:12 PM, August Goers wrote:
Hi Bill,
One of the largest benefits of the microinverter system, in my
opinion, is the ability to monitor each module individually. It might
seem like ~$500 is a lot for the Envoy but I think it is well worth it
when you think about the 25 year warranty period and included ongoing
monitoring. We've had enough Enphase failures that I would personally
really want to be able to keep my eye on each micro individually.
Just a thought, August
*From:*RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
<mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org>] *On Behalf Of
*frenergy
*Sent:* Sunday, September 28, 2014 2:26 PM
*To:* RE-wrenches
*Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Metering
CA wrenches,
I'm trying to (for the sake of my monetarily impaired
customers) figure out a less expensive way to meter/monitor small
enphase systems. One of my local utilities will allow me to just use
a remanufactured utility-grade meter (ala AEE) These meters are
inexpensive, robust and accurate but only display total production.
The Envoy retails for over $5 bills. Most of my customers are
not interested in checking their PV system on the internet, well not
after a couple weeks. I can't seem to find any requirement from
PG&E other than in Section 5.1 of the guidebook: " All systems
receiving an EPBB incentive must install a production meter accurate
to +- 5% of actual system output...." which is pretty vague.
plus the is no CSI incentive anymore.
Anybody have a suggestion that is different from the remanu
utility meter?....and possibly gives current wattage output, and is
"approved" by PG&E interconnection?
TIA
Bill
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