How to limit Multiplus grid current consumption based on grid meter data

DIY
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1

Hello,

In my RV I have the following setup with a Multiplus, a Cerbo GX and an energy meter :

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When connected to grid AC, the grid meter let me see the “AC loads” (fridge and heater that bypass the Multiplus) and the “Essential Loads” (AC consumers that goes through the Multiplus).

When settings Multiplus “Grid current limit”, it does limit the AC power taken by the Multiplus and adapts battery charge/discharge depending on “DC loads” and AC “Essential Loads”. But it does no take into account “AC loads” given by the grid meter.
The problem is, when connected through a “low” circuit breaker (in a camping for example), my system regularly triggers circuit breaker when my heater starts.

How to configure my system so that I can specify an “overall” grid current limit and have the Multiplus adapts its own consumption to a maximum of “overall limit” - “AC loads” ?

Thanks,

2

You need to add an energy meter at the grid input and use peak shaving’s maximum input current limit feature.

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3

Thanks for your answer.

I am confused about adding an energy meter “at the grid input”, do you mean adding a second one there ?

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From what I have understood peak shaving is an ESS feature and ESS documentation says :

When not to use ESS

  • In off-grid systems, with or without a generator
  • In marine systems
  • In automotive systems
  • Inverter priority, also known as 'Intentional islanding“ or ‘Ignore AC’ input systems

Giving that my use case is an off-grid automotive system, is there a way to do that without activating ESS feature ? Or maybe ESS restrictions are just recommandations ?

4

At the point where the grid enters the system. Ie. at the point where shore power is introduced.

Ie. the location where the energy meter is in the diagrams you shared.

5

Ok, so this is where I have mine already.

Any thought about getting this done without activating ESS ?

6

Nope, that’s an ESS feature.

7

Thanks Warwick,

Honestly I am quite surprised. Is “can’t do” the official Victron’s answer for such a boat/RV basic use case ?