How a $6500 Solar Mistake Could Have Been Avoided

In this video, JT discusses a costly mistake involving a solar system inverter upgrade, which cost nearly £5,000 to correct. He begins by outlining his old solar system, which had run flawlessly since 2010. With rising electricity prices in 2022, JT upgraded his system while retaining the benefits of the Feed-In Tariff (FiT) scheme.

The upgrade involved replacing the old Fronius IG20 inverter with a new SolarEdge system, which required installing optimizers for better monitoring and efficiency. Despite the upgrade, the system had to remain at its original capacity to continue benefiting from the FiT scheme.

He also expanded his solar capacity by adding new panels to less-than-ideal roof spaces, emphasizing the challenges and decisions involved in this process. Additionally, he installed a second inverter and 20 kWh of battery storage to enhance his system's performance and energy independence.

However, JT made a significant error by opting for a 3.6 kW inverter, limiting the system’s output despite having a much higher battery capacity. This mistake restricted his ability to run multiple high-power appliances simultaneously during peak demand periods, necessitating grid power reliance.

JT explains the importance of understanding the differences between hybrid and AC-coupled systems and the implications of inverter size on overall system performance. He advises viewers to carefully assess their energy needs and consult with knowledgeable installers to avoid similar pitfalls.

The video serves as a cautionary tale for anyone considering a solar upgrade, highlighting the need for thorough planning and understanding of solar system components to avoid costly mistakes.

00:00 Introduction
02:00 Swapping the inverter
02:15 Installing Optimzers
03:27 East North East - are you crazy
04:22 DC Coupled
05:48 My Big Mistake
06:50 AC Coupled
10:00 Checklist