Help Ungrading My Simple 48v offgrid system

DIY
, , ,
1

Hi All,

I’ve just signed up, and I’m looking for some advice as I plan an upgrade to my current off-grid system. Here’s what I’m currently running:

  • Inverter: Victron MultiPlus Inverter/Charger 202048/5000
  • Solar Controller: Victron SmartSolar MPPT Charge Controller 250/100
  • DC Distributor: Lynx 1000 DC Distributor
  • System Manager: Cerbo GX for system management
  • Batteries: X4 Pylontech US2000C = 8,000 watts
  • Solar Panels: 14 Q Cell Mono 365W Solar Panels
  • Generator: 1500 RPM 230V 1PH Deepsea 13KVA / 10.4kW
  • AC Distribution: AC Board distributed to 3 separate sheds

I need more inverter and battery power, and I’ve got a few questions for the community as I plan my upgrades:

  1. I’m looking to add another 5,000W inverter right now. What else would I need to integrate it into my current system? Could I potentially fit a 10,000W inverter to work alongside my current 5,000W setup?
  2. I don’t need the 10,000W inverter immediately but will in about six months. Would it make more sense to add another 5,000W inverter now instead?
  3. If I added another Pylontech US2000C battery, could I then create a second stack (i.e., two sets of 5,000W batteries), giving me a total of 20kW? Can my current setup handle this, or would I need to upgrade anything else?

Any insights or suggestions would be much appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help!

2

Hey Jamie,

Unfortunately you can’t use a 5000 and 10000 Multiplus in parallel, but you can use up to 6 of the same ones. (MP3000 and MP5000)
However, you have to work very carefully with the wiring. The best way to do this is to look at Wiring Unlimited from Victron (6.7).
If possible, I would opt for a larger Multiplus and avoid parallel installation.

You can use up to 16 Pylontech, anything beyond that requires an LV-HUB.
It is also important to pay attention to the minimum dimensions of the storage.
Otherwise, the function of the system and the extended warranty may not be guaranteed.

3

@Scoolt Thanks for the first-class info – I really appreciate it.

I hadn’t thought about pulling the 5000 out and replacing it with a bigger unit. If I were to replace it with the 15,000W MultiPlus II, would that give me any limitations in the future when I need more power? Can additional units still be added to this setup? Also, I assume no major changes would be required to my current system for this upgrade?

I’m glad you mentioned the Wiring Unlimited document. I’ve just had a look, and it seems like a great resource. I’m looking forward to diving into it!

Thanks again for your help.

Best regards,
Jamie

4

Hey @Jamiemack

As far as I know the MP8000/10000/15000 don’t work in parallel.
Just calculate the DC cross-sections carefully, as there are often incorrect dimensions.

br
Lukas