In a DC-coupled setup, the solar array connects directly to the battery bank via a charge controller. This configuration is typical for off-grid systems but can also be adapted for grid-tied setups utilizing a 600-volt string inverter.
The 600V charge controller serves to retrofit grid-tied systems with batteries and can be integrated with any of our pre-wired power centers lacking a charge controller. It’s installed between the existing PV array and the grid-tied inverter, featuring a manual switch for toggling between grid-tie and off-grid modes. However, it lacks programmability, requiring physical switching to initiate battery charging.
While the battery-based inverter can still autonomously power essential appliances, the PV array won’t charge the batteries until the switch is manually activated. This necessitates onsite presence to commence solar charging, as forgetting to do so may result in drained batteries with no solar recharge capability.
Pros of DC Coupling include compatibility with a wider range of off-grid inverters and battery bank sizes compared to AC coupling. However, its reliance on manual transfer switches means you must be available to kickstart PV charging, failing which your system will still provide backup power but without solar replenishment.