"Can I add a Tigo energy storage solution to my existing solar system?"
The answer is YES!
AC Coupled System
In an AC coupled system, the solar from an existing third-party (non-Tigo) inverter is used to charge the Tigo Battery through an inline ATS (automatic transfer switch). Here are some simple line diagrams to show this concept:
Existing PV System (without AC Coupling)
AC Coupling, using a Tigo EI Residential System
Adding Tigo Equipment
For this application, you will need a Tigo hybrid Inverter (3.8kW, 7.6kW, or 11.4kW) and Battery sized to your load requirements. Tigo's Sizing Tool can assist with this decision.
You will also need the Tigo 200A automatic transfer switch for this whole home backup scenario. The Tigo ATS is installed between the utility meter and the main service panel. There is an internal energy meter to measure home consumption.
If you would like the third-party inverter production data to appear on the Tigo EI Portal and App, you will need an additional energy meter placed around the existing PV inverter AC output. This meter will connect to the Tigo hybrid Inverter underneath the connection for the Tigo Access Point (if used). |
Commissioning
The additional EI Residential components would follow the same commissioning path until you get to the Inverter setup page.
- Go to Settings > Select Equipment > Inverter Settings
- Select General Settings
- Change the Couple Type to AC
- Press SAVE
And that's it! The existing PV system will now charge the Tigo batteries during grid up and loss of grid scenarios. If you have any questions, please contact the Tigo Sales Engineering Team for additional design assistance.