Enphase launched the IQ Battery 5P together with the whole IQ Energy System (including IQ8 Microinverters and IQ System Controller) in Australia and we have been hosting practical training sessions to show solar installers how to install this new product. For those who couldn’t attend our training, below is a summary of key takeaways and essential considerations for successfully installing the Enphase IQ Battery.

Enphase IQ Battery 5P:

All-in-one solar backup battery power

With the modular design of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P, installers can customise their energy storage solution to the customer’s exact needs. The IQ8 Microinverters feature an integrated AC branch circuit breaker and DC disconnects for added safety, while the IQ Energy System Controller allows for monitoring and control of the entire system from a single interface.

The Enphase IQ Battery 5P and IQ8 Microinverters offer a reliable and scalable energy storage solution without sizing restrictions. Additionally, these microinverters are compatible with all existing Enphase Energy Systems, ensuring customers can take full advantage of their investment without needing any additional hardware or software upgrades.

The Sunlight Jump Start feature is a key advantage of this system, providing users with an easy way to restart the system in a power outage using only sunlight. This eliminates the need to manually reconnect or reset components after an outage, saving time and money during maintenance and repair.

Installation process

Installation is made simple, featuring pre-programmed settings so all that’s needed is to connect each component into its appropriate position within the Junction Box before connecting to grid power. This reduces time spent on installation since there’s no need for manual configuration or calibration.

It is important for solar installers to understand the steps involved in the installation process. This includes layout of equipment, connection of wiring and components; configuration of settings, testing for functionality and safety, and commissioning of the system. Efficiency should also be taken into consideration when installing the IQ Energy System; this includes ensuring optimal placement for solar panels to capture maximum sunlight as well as maximizing battery life through proper maintenance.

Everything installers need to know will be covered in the required IQ Battery 5P certification, which can be found online at Enphase Univeristy. 

Apart from the battery, there are some components that are needed for a successful installation. To simplify the ordering and install process, we have created install kits with everything required. They include suitable breakers, labelled cabling, CAN communication cable and a compliant label kit. Furthermore, we can also put together a custom install kit to suit your project, just talk to our team!

• Enphase IQ Battery & Controller Install Kit – Single Phase 
• Enphase IQ Battery & Controller Install Kit – Three Phase
• Enphase IQ Battery 5P Handle Kit

Common training queries

During the training, some solar installers required clarification about the information on the datasheet referring to the usable capacity and battery capacity. Below is a detailed explanation of this common confusion that applies to different scenarios:

The battery’s total capacity is 5 kWh. While theoretically, it’s possible to fully use this capacity, Enphase has incorporated software measures to prevent complete drainage, aiming to ensure customer satisfaction. The distinction between usable and total capacities isn’t explicitly outlined in the datasheet, as these values vary based on the specific configuration, such as IQ8 versus IQ7/S-series. More information about this will be available on enphase website soon.

The minimum reserve for IQ7/S-series with EES 3.0 is ​​10% which is required for starting the battery in a loss of grid event in the evening. This 10% reserve would leave an available battery capacity of 4.5 kWh. However, the IQ8 will have a lower reserve minimum as IQ8s are grid-forming. If you set a 20% reserve the available battery capacity would be 4 kWh.

Another common question related to the difference between IQ7 and IQ8 and their grid requirements during installation. The answer to this is the IQ7 requires a grid reference for its installation, whereas IQ 8’s are expected to form a grid on their own. IQ8PV operates exclusively as a grid-following system when utilised without the IQ Battery 5P and IQ System Controller.

Another query often raised is if there is a specific single or three-phase controller for the IQ Enphase Battery 5P. The answer is, there’s only one controller for the IQ Enphase Battery 5P, which is the System Controller 3 INT. It’s designed to be versatile and can be used for both single-phase and three-phase applications. So, one size fits all, and it’s suitable for any type of installation.

Warranty

The Enphase IQ Battery 5P comes with a 10 years limited warranty. This includes coverage of installation, maintenance, and repair services.

The Enphase IQ8 Microinverters have an extended warranty of 25 years, which covers all components including the microinverter itself. The battery is covered for up to 10 years under the general product warranty as well as any related parts such as the inverter enclosure, cables, and connectors.

Products Limited Warranty Period Enphase IQ™ Battery 5P™:

• Enphase IQ™ Battery 5P™ – 15 years or 6,000 discharged cycles
• IQ™ System Controller 3 INT – 10 year
• Mobile Connect with SKUs: CELLMODEM-M1-06-AT-05 – 5 years

Learn more about Enphase IQ Battery Warranty here

Compatibility

The Enphase IQ Battery 5P & Complete IQ Energy System provides solar installers with maximum compatibility, allowing for a quick and easy integration of the system into existing systems. The modular design of the system means that it can be adjusted and reconfigured without needing to replace or size components as needed. This allows for better control over energy production and savings, ensuring that all components work in harmony.

In addition, Enphase’s IQ8 Microinverters are designed to be compatible with any type of current solar panel technology. This allows for more efficient energy production and ensures that existing systems can still operate at peak levels even if new panels are added later on.

Learn the difference between the IQ8HC and the IQ8AC microinverters here.

AC Solar Warehouse, the home of Enphase in Australia

How we can assist you with Enphase IQ Battery

We are the largest Enphase distributor in Australia and New Zealand. We work hard to save you time and money installing Enphase. Our key staff are respected industry veterans who have been working in the solar industry since 1995, with extensive technical expertise in all aspects of solar system design, installation and support.

Our engineering and dedicated account management team is readily available to assist you with a comprehensive range of tasks, including:

• Product selection and system design to meet your project’s needs
• Generation of detailed Enphase bill of materials and quote so you get to site with all the right gear.
• AC Board (solar distribution switchboard) design & supply
• Commercial AC Board with network protection design & supply
• Grid connect application SLDs
• Engineering services and technical assistance throughout the process

Our Engineering and Account Management team’s knowledge ensures you can navigate any technical or support issues. Feel free to contact us for assistance or further information.