Choosing a solar battery can feel confusing. You hear words like modular, hybrid, and AI, but it’s hard to know what those mean for your home.
For more information, please visit C&D.
You want something that works, that keeps your lights on during a blackout, and that doesn’t waste your money. But how can you know which battery is right for you?
At PSC Energy, we help people in NSW find the best solar battery for their homes. We’ve worked with many systems, and we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t. We know which features matter and which ones are just sales talk.
In this article, you’ll learn the following:
By the end of this article, you’ll know what the Sigenergy SigenStor is, what it can do, and where it falls short. You’ll also learn who it’s best for and what to watch out for.
If you’re considering installing a solar battery in , this article will help you determine if the SigenStor is a suitable option for your home.
The Sigenergy SigenStor is a complete solar energy system. It includes a battery, a hybrid inverter, and an optional electric vehicle charger. It’s designed for use with solar panels to generate your own energy and store it for later use.
It can be installed in homes with either single-phase or three-phase power. The SigenStor works with both.
You can add the system to most existing solar setups. It means you don’t have to start from scratch if you already have solar panels on your roof. You can also install it as a complete energy system with new panels and an inverter. Either way, this gives you some flexibility.
You will install the SigenStor as either DC-coupled or AC-coupled. These terms describe how the battery connects to the rest of your solar system.
DC-coupled means the solar panels send energy straight to the battery. This is more efficient. Less energy is lost when the power generated by your panels is transferred to your battery. DC-coupling is most efficient when installing a complete, new system.
AC-coupled means the solar panels send energy directly to an inverter. Then, the power gets sent to your battery. This setup is typically more suitable for homes that already have solar panels and want to add a battery.
The SigenStor also comes with smart energy software. This software uses artificial intelligence (AI) to manage your energy. It helps you save money by knowing when to charge or discharge the battery. It monitors factors such as your energy usage, the weather, and electricity prices.
The whole system is designed to help you lower your bills, utilise more of your solar energy, and keep your home running during power outages.
If you’d like to learn a bit more about the cost of SigenStor, we recommend you check out the following article titled, How Much Does the Sigenergy SigenStor Cost?
Power up your savings. click here.
The SigenStor has many strong features. It provides flexibility, intelligent energy control, and reliable backup support. Here are the main benefits.
1. It’s Modular and Scalable. The SigenStor lets you start small and grow over time. Each battery module stores 8 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy. You can stack up to six battery modules in one tower. That gives you up to 48 kWh in one SigenStor unit. If you need even more, you can add more towers.
This is helpful if your energy use might grow. For example, if you plan to purchase an electric car or add more appliances later, you can add more storage when needed.
Each battery module has its own energy management system built into it. This means the system continues to function well as you add more storage. You won’t lose performance as your system grows.
2. It Works for Single-Phase and Three-Phase Homes. Some homes in Australia use single-phase power. Others, especially larger homes or ones with high energy needs, use three-phase power. Many batteries only back up one phase of the power supply. That means they only power part of your home during a blackout.
The SigenStor can back up all three phases. This means it can power your whole home, not just one part. If your home has three-phase power and you require full backup, this feature is crucial.
3. You Can Add a DC EV Charger. If you drive an electric car, this is a valuable feature. The SigenStor has an optional EV charger that can be added to the system. You can plug your car into the charger and use your solar power to charge your vehicle.
You can choose between an AC or a DC charger. The DC charger is faster and more efficient. Some electric cars also support bidirectional charging. This means your vehicle can send power back into your home or battery. If your car supports this feature, the SigenStor can take advantage of it.
4. It’s Very Efficient When DC-Coupled. When the SigenStor is installed as a DC-coupled system, it means your solar panels send power straight to your battery without extra steps. You charge your battery faster, and you lose less power as heat in the process.
The SigenStor has up to 98% round-trip efficiency when DC-coupled. This is very high. It means you keep more of the energy your panels make, and that saves you money over time.
5. It Has Smart Monitoring and AI Features. The SigenStor comes with an app called mySigen. The app allows you to view the power generated by your panels, the amount you are using, and the amount stored in your battery.
But it does more than show numbers. The app uses AI (artificial intelligence) to help you save energy. It learns how and when you use power in your home. It checks weather forecasts and electricity prices. Then, it makes smart choices about when to charge or discharge your battery. These choices help you use more solar power and save money.
The AI is built using ChatGPT-4 technology. It improves over time as it learns from your habits.
6. It’s Safe and Designed to Last. The battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. This is one of the safest types of battery chemistry. It handles heat better than regular lithium-ion batteries and lasts longer.
The SigenStor also has several safety features:
Most batteries do not include an internal fire extinguisher. This shows that safety was a high priority in the design.
8. It’s Rebate-Friendly. You can get rebates when you install a SigenStor. In New South Wales, you can apply for the NSW battery rebate. There is also a new federal battery rebate. These rebates can save you thousands of dollars.
Your rebate amount depends on the amount of battery storage you install. The more kilowatt-hours you install, the more rebate you receive. This makes the system more affordable for many families and significantly reduces the payback period.
If you’d like to learn a bit more about SigenStor, a solar battery we carry, we recommend you check out the following article titled, Sigenergy SigenStor Review.
Let’s talk solar savings. Click here.
No solar battery is perfect. The SigenStor has a lot to offer, but there are also some factors to consider before making a decision. Here are the main downsides.
1. There’s a Central Point of Failure. The SigenStor features a hybrid inverter located at the top of the battery tower. This inverter is like the brain of the system. If it fails, the entire system stops functioning until it is replaced.
The good news is that the inverter can be swapped out fairly easily. But it is still a single point of failure. It’s a much bigger problem with other batteries in its class that aren’t modular.
2. The Brand Is Still New. Sigenergy is a young company. They started in . They are growing rapidly and have made a strong impression in the industry, but they do not have a long history yet.
Some people feel more comfortable choosing a brand with a longer track record. Companies like Tesla and Enphase have been around longer and have more data to demonstrate the longevity of their systems over time.
SigenStor offers a competitive warranty and has offices in Australia, but its claims process is largely untested.
3. The App Is Still Maturing. The mySigen app is powerful and features many intelligent capabilities, but it is still relatively new. As a result, some users may encounter bugs or missing features early on. The company updates the app often and adds improvements.
4. The EV Charger Costs Extra. The electric vehicle charger is not included in the base SigenStor system. It is an extra piece that you pay for if you want it. The cost depends on whether you choose an AC or DC charger.
If you don’t have an electric vehicle yet, this may not be a concern. But if you plan to charge your car using your solar battery, you will need to factor in the extra cost.
5. SigenStor Internet Connectivity Issues
SigenStor batteries do not include built-in 4G connectivity. They rely entirely on your home’s internet connection.
This can be a significant inconvenience for remote homes or those without reliable internet access.
If you’d like to learn a bit more about SigenStor from Sigenergy, you might want to check out the following article titled, Sigenergy SigenStor Quietly Becomes Australia’s Top Solar Battery Brand.
Ready to go solar? Click here.
The SigenStor fits some homes better than others. It is a strong system for families who want flexibility and comprehensive support.
It is a good fit if:
It may not be the best fit if:
If you’d like to learn about some of the potential downsides to the SigenStor energy system, you might want to check out the following article titled, Problems with Sigenergy SigenStor Solar Energy System.
Get started with solar. click here.
The SigenStor offers a lot in one system. It is innovative, safe, and flexible. It works well for homes with either single-phase or three-phase power. It provides you with room to grow, and it can keep your entire home running during a blackout. It also works well with solar panels, which helps you save money and use more of your own energy.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of SigenStack Battery. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
SigenStor gives you features that most batteries do not. If you want a system that can meet your current needs and grow with you in the future, the SigenStor is worth a closer look.
Still not sure if it’s the right fit? That’s okay. At PSC Energy, we can help you compare systems, check your rebate options, and design a setup that suits your home. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the federal solar rebate, also known as the Federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program, you might want to check out the following article titled, What the Federal Election and the Government Rebate Means for Solar Batteries in Australia.
Recently, our AC Academy hosted a webinar on Sigenstack Commercial inverters and battery systems, providing installers and industry professionals with insights into the system design, installation, and operational considerations. During the session, participants asked a number of great questions. We’ve compiled the most frequently asked ones along with detailed answers to help you better understand Sigenstack solutions.
We’ve also covered the Commercial Battery Modelling Software, which provides performance and financial insights. You can watch Stuart’s presentation here to learn more about our services for commercial modelling: Watch on YouTube
Attention all Sigenergy installers in Australia! Sigenergy strongly urge all installers to complete the technical training they are running today (1st of Oct) via webinar. This training will enable you to get the most out of their products and prevent future rectification work.
Learn more
Q: Can we watch the previous Sigenstor webinar or other previous masterclasses?
A: Yes! The webinar is available on YouTube. You can watch the full SigenStor Design Masterclass here, and our first Sigenergy Technical Masterclass here. Also available through the Smart Installer by the Smart Energy Council
Q: Would there be a combiner to parallel 100 Sigenstack inverters, or do we need to use your Gateway?
A: For a grid-connected system using HYA inverters, an AC combiner or distribution board is required, but no Sigenergy Gateway is needed. For a backup system, the Sigenergy Gateway Controller is required.
Q: Is there a 100kVA Sigenergy Gateway or higher?
A: Using HYB inverters, you can install a 100kVA inverter with backup without a gateway. If you need a generator connection, a custom gateway can be quoted through AC Solar Warehouse.
Q: Can we mix new and old battery modules in a stack over time?
A: Yes, the battery modules are individually optimised, similar to SigenStor, so this is possible.
Q: Is the interconnection between the stacks through sub-bases? What is the spacing?
A: Yes, the stacks are pre-wired through the bases. Spacing is approximately 300mm between each stack.
Q: Do installers need to use the Sigenergy PSC Kit for GSD control in Queensland?
A: Currently, the PSC Kit is required for GSD control in Queensland installations. In the future, if the kit is no longer needed, Sigenergy will advise installers.
Q: What if an installer still uses the PSC Kit after it’s no longer required?
A: There’s no issue—installers can continue to install the PSC Kit. A software option will allow you to select whether the PSC is installed or not, ensuring the system operates correctly regardless.
Learn more here. Download Sigenergy Technical Note
Q: What’s the point of a 1C discharge if the inverter is 125kW max?
A: Different battery controllers are required depending on the number of modules in the system. For example, 20-21 modules require a 0.5C battery controller to handle the current efficiently.
Q: With a 0.5C controller, what peak power can be expected?
A: The peak power is 0.5 times the battery capacity. For example, a 240kWh stack can deliver 120kW continuous.
Q: What is the C-rate of individual battery modules?
A: Each module has a 0.5C nominal rate and 1C maximum rate.
Q: Do we need to use the Sigenergy Power Sensor?
A: Yes, a power sensor is required for systems without a gateway.
Q: Can we use the residential-grade Wireless Sigen sensor with C & I inverters?
A: Yes. The same power sensors work, and you can use third-party CTs with Sigenergy’s meter, paired with the SUB1G transmitter/receiver for wireless communication.
Q: What standard CT sizes are supported? What about Rogowski coils?
A: Standard CTs and compatible third-party CTs can be used with the existing power sensors.
Q: A customer has received warranty codes but is having trouble finding where to enter them. Is there a guide or simple explanation?
A: Yes. In the mySigen app, go to System Settings for the relevant site. Scroll to the bottom and navigate to:
Installer Tools → License Activation
Here, the warranty codes can be entered to activate the system’s license.
Q: The Sub1G kit uses an IEEE 802.11ah signal. Can a repeater or router with the same protocol be used as an extender? My customer’s MSB is 200 m away, with trees and sheds causing interference.
A: This hasn’t been formally tested, but some practical experience shows it can work slightly beyond 200 m. For example, a test over 234 m with a thin tree line was successful. R&D has also been asked to trial it.
Recommendation: Test on-site if the installer is willing, as environmental factors like trees and buildings can affect performance.
Q: If a manual-start generator is running on the Smart Port and the batteries are already full, is this okay? Will the generator just feed the loads until it’s switched off, and the Sigenstor just won’t draw any load?
A: Yes, this is fine from a Sigenstor perspective. The system will not draw power from the generator once the batteries are full—it will only supply the loads. Keep in mind, however, that running a generator under these conditions can be a waste of fuel.
Q: Can a split-phase generator run 2 x 1-phase Sigenstor systems with 1-phase gateways? For example, if one battery is full, can that battery sit idle while the other draws from the generator to charge?
A: Yes, from the Sigenergy perspective, this setup is okay. The system will allow one battery to sit idle while the other draws power. Other considerations, such as whether the generator can handle unbalanced loads, should be evaluated separately.
Q: Once the 2-year data period on the comms module is up, is there a way to top up the data, or does the customer need a new module?
A: Customers have two options:
This ensures continuous connectivity and monitoring without needing to replace the comms module.
Q: Can we meter 2 third-party inverters in different locations using Sigenergy meters? Are either of these part numbers Gen 2 meters, and do we need a second set of CTs?
A: Yes, you can daisy-chain 2 energy meters via RS485 communications for production monitoring. Assign each meter a different address in the app. You can have a maximum of 5 production sensors on a three-phase system, and 1 consumption sensor. This allows you to measure multiple inverters across different locations.
Q: If the meters aren’t Gen 2, can we use the gateway’s inbuilt meter along with RS485 ports on the energy controller to measure external production?
A: Yes, this is possible. You can use the gateway’s inbuilt meter for import/export and connect external production sensors via RS485-1 and RS485-2 to the energy controller for additional measurements.
Q: What happens if a Sigenstack system is disconnected from the internet for more than 90 days?
A: After 90 days offline, the system enters safety mode to protect the battery and ensure safe operation. Safety mode includes:
Q: What if the system has intermittent 4G connectivity due to weak signal?
A: Short-term dropouts don’t trigger safety mode. The system only enters safety mode if it’s offline continuously for 90 days or more. For customers with variable 4G coverage, connecting the system whenever possible and performing periodic online checks will prevent throttling.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website solar energy devices.