A Simple Guide to Installing a 1200W - 1600W Solar Panel System
In this blog post, we will walk you through the process of setting up a simple 1200W - 1600W solar panel system using the Growatt 3kW 1 Phase 1 MPPT Solar Inverter with WiFi - MIC3000TL-X and charging 2x Growatt Hope 48V 106Ah 5.5kwh 5.5L-A1 Lithium Iron Batteries. This setup is perfect for tiny homes, boating, and RVs.
This inverter is very versatile with its broad MPPT voltage range. The start voltage is 80V so you have to make sure your solar sting (in series) is over this voltage in order to start charging your battery. For this project avoid using solar panels that are designed for 12V systems as they only go up to 20V output. In the near future it is planned to sell matching solar panels on our Neogrid site.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need the following components for your solar panel system:
- 4x 300W-400W Solar Panels (your choice based on price and physical size)
- Growatt 3kW 1 Phase 1 MPPT Solar Inverter with WiFi - MIC3000TL-X
- 2x Growatt Hope 48V 106Ah 5.5kwh 5.5L-A1 Lithium Iron Batteries
- Installation Kit
- Cables and Fittings
- Fuse/Lightning Protection Box
- Isolation Switches
The two main items can be purchased here
Growatt 3kW 1 Phase 1 MPPT Solar Inverter
and battery
Step 2: Cabling and Fittings
The cabling and fittings are crucial for connecting the solar panels to the inverter and the batteries. You will need DC cables to connect the solar panels to the inverter and AC cables to connect the inverter to your home’s electrical system. The size of the cables should be chosen based on the system’s current and the distance between the components to ensure safety and efficiency. You can use our voltage drop calculator here as a guide
Step 3: Fuse/Lightning Protection Box
A fuse/lightning protection box is essential to protect your system from electrical surges caused by lightning or other factors. This box should be installed between the solar panels and the inverter.
Step 4: Isolation Switches
Isolation switches are necessary for safely disconnecting the solar panels, inverter, and batteries from each other and from your home’s electrical system. You should install one isolation switch on the DC side (between the solar panels and the inverter) and another on the AC side (between the inverter and your home’s electrical system).
Step 5: Wire Sizing
The size of the wires used in your system is crucial for safety and efficiency. The wire size should be chosen based on the maximum current that your system will produce and the distance between the components. For a 1200W system with a voltage of 48V, the current will be 25A. Therefore, you should choose a wire size that can safely carry this current over the distance between your solar panels and inverter.
Step 6: Installation
Once you have all your components and materials ready, you can start the installation process. Start by installing the solar panels in a location with maximum sunlight exposure. Then, connect the solar panels to the inverter using the DC cables. Connect the inverter to the batteries using the appropriate cables.
Finally, connect the inverter to your home’s electrical system using the AC cables. This is like plugging in an appliance and will give a grid feed to your system. The same AC input can be used to take in power from a generator or VTL from an electric vehicle.
This is a small system and it is suggested that you link it up to your essential items such as lighting and refrigerator. High power items such as airconditioning and heating should not be connected to a system of this size. If you want more power then please refer to these blog articles Empowering Off-Grid Living: The Off-Grid Pod or Setting Up a 5kW Solar System with the Growatt SPF 5000es Inverter and Growatt 48V 100Ah Battery
If you have any doubts during the installation process please seek professional services from a licenced electrician and solar installer.
Conclusion
Installing a solar panel system can be a rewarding project that not only reduces your energy bills but also contributes to a sustainable future. With the right components and careful planning, you can set up a system that meets your energy needs and fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re living in a tiny home, enjoying life on a boat, or traveling in an RV, a solar panel system can provide you with reliable and clean energy.
Please note that this guide is a general overview and does not cover all the details of installing a solar panel system. Always consult with a professional or the manufacturer before starting your project. Safety should always be your top priority when working with electrical systems.
