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The Electriq PowerPod is a new cutting-edge technology home energy management and storage solution for the residential sector in the US. This smart electrical system has been designed with the capability to adapt to multiple scenarios that may exist in every particular case. The PowerPod consists of a built-in inverter, lithium-ion batteries, and an energy management system that allows you to monitor the consumption, generation, and energy flows of your home electrical system at any given time.

The Electriq PowerPod is also capable of coupling with a solar PV system, making it the ideal solution for grid-tied with battery backup systems. Because of this, the PowerPod has two ways to operate when connected to a PV system

The Electriq PowerPod Configurations: AC Coupled and DC Coupled

The PowerPod solution is capable of connection using an AC coupled or DC coupled configuration depending on the needs of the installation.

When using the DC-coupled solution, the user can install a PV system where besides the PowerPod, will only need to add the PV modules. These will be connected to a combiner box and a rapid shutdown system and then directly to the PowerPod’s inverter where up to two maximum power point trackers (MPPT) inputs will be available for the PV array. The permissible voltage range of these MPPT inputs will be located between 250-430 VDC which will provide you a range of the number of panels that can be placed in the system per string. Then, using the electrical current that is injected into the device, and depending on the operation mode set by the user, the inverter will choose to charge the lithium-ion battery in DC, supply the loads, or export to the grid.

Meanwhile, under the AC-coupled configuration, the PowerPod is used when a grid-tied solar PV system is already installed in the owner’s property and the PowerPod needs to get coupled with the grid-tied inverter that is already installed. This applies whether micro-inverters or a string inverter are present. This allows the user to continue using the previous arrangement while adding the possibility for an energy storage device and a more efficient energy management system. Moreover, the AC-coupled configuration allows you to work without a PV system, simply by using the electric grid as a power source or a diesel generator that can also be integrated.

What are the Available Model Options of the Electriq PowerPod?

Since every customer’s energy needs are different, the Electriq PowerPod comes in multiple sizes and options. You will be able to choose from battery sizes ranging from 11.4 kWh to 34.2 kWh usable capacities. By referencing your monthly electric bill, you can estimate your average daily consumption in order to determine the battery capacity that you need.

It is important to note that regardless of the PowerPod model you use, the maximum AC output power (load/grid) is 5.5 / 5 kW and the max AC solar (string/micro) is 5 / 6.5 kW. If the installation requires more, you will need to add another inverter to the installation. All PowerPod’s have an instantaneous power output of 7.5 kW that can provide an extra amount of power for a limited period of time (just seconds needed for starting power in motors) and all of them (with the exception of the PowerPod 11.4 model, which has 4.5 kW) provide a maximum of 5.5 kW of continuous power output that you can use as a reference for your loads. If additional backup power is needed, the PowerPod can be stacked on the battery side as well.

What Operation Modes Will I Be Able to Adjust in the Electriq PowerPod?

One of the most useful aspects of the PowerPod is its versatility in energy flow management made possible through the PowerPod’s four modes of operation. Each mode of operation establishes a set of conditions and prioritizes the consumption of solar power, grid, or battery energy to optimize the power flows and reduce energy costs.

Back-Up

Under this mode of operation, the PowerPod assumes that the battery needs to be fully charged at all times and must only be discharged when a power outage occurs. This mode of operation is essential to provide you with a more reliable electricity supply that not every battery-based solution has.

Self-Supply

Self-Supply minimizes or eliminates grid usage by storing excess solar energy in the battery and using that energy when solar production is less than home consumption.

Time-of-Use (TOU)

TOU mode ensures you minimize grid power by utilizing your solar and battery power when utility prices are highest. For this mode, you will need to set your area’s specific high tariff schedule.

Custom Mode

In Custom Mode, you are able to set discharge and charge periods to match your specific energy lifestyle.

What Will I Be Able To See in the Electriq PowerPod App?

The App shows everything that you need to know from your energy storage system. You will be able to instantaneously see the amount of energy that your PV system is generating, how much power you are consuming, how much energy you are exporting to the grid, and the remaining battery capacity.

You will be able to see daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly graphs of your energy generation-consumption that will help you better understand your energy patterns. Moreover, you will also be able to choose the operation mode that you want the system to utilize.

The best thing about this capability is that you will be able to adjust your desired battery energy reserve under self-consumption or backup modes.

What Are the Other Benefits of the PowerPod?

In addition to all of these capabilities and functionalities, you will enjoy a 10-year warranty period and the possibility to hook up a generator to the system, which is especially useful for off-grid purposes. Keep in mind that the Electriq PowerPod solution works with split-phase generators only at 120/240 V and that the minimum generator wattage recommended is 6.25 kW.

Considering all of these properties and options, there is no doubt that the Electriq PowerPod is the top residential solution for your home energy needs, capable of adapting to any scenario and providing you with the performance, reliability, and versatility that you need. Contact us today to see how we can help keep your home powered!