I had a 6.5kW PV solar system installed in 2021, which includes 20 x 325W panels, along with 3 x 8.2kW GivEnergy batteries and a GivEnergy Gen1 hybrid 5.0kW inverter. Overall, I was quite satisfied with the installation, though there were a couple of aspects that could have been better. Firstly, the installer didn’t offer me an extended warranty on the batteries, and secondly, they didn’t offer EPS. Both options would’ve incurred additional costs, but they should have been presented to me for consideration. It’s worth noting that installations now include a 12-year warranty as standard.
The system’s maximum DC input is 6.5kWh, which is adequate for our peak production. Comparatively, the Gen3 inverter can charge and discharge batteries at 3.3/3.6kWh and has a maximum DC input of 7.5kWh. I chose to install the units indoors, as I believe it offers better protection from weather and helps with performance during cold weather, plus the units emit a bit of heat which is beneficial inside the house.
Performance-wise, our batteries and inverter have generally met expectations. However, we’ve experienced significant issues with firmware upgrades, which have affected both the batteries and inverter. These issues have occasionally taken our entire system offline.
For instance, in June 2023, a failed firmware upgrade resulted in a 15-day loss of peak production. Another time, a firmware issue with a battery took several months to resolve. It seems GivEnergy’s rapid expansion has led to growing pains, particularly a shortage of engineers. I hope they’ll improve and make better use of their installer network for initial diagnostics and minor repairs.
I remain cautious about firmware upgrades, especially considering the potential risks once the system is out of warranty. As for the inverter, I don’t see the need to upgrade it yet, but this might become necessary if it breaks down post-warranty.
I’ve been using the batteries to maximise savings with Octopus Energy’s Saving Sessions, earning over £150 in the winter of 2023/24. The system allows easy scheduling of forced charging and discharging, which is quite helpful.
Is the app and the data connection quite reliable. I’ve seen a number of gripes on various social media sites that they have a tendency of going down for no reason and data isn’t accessible.
My experience of the app and data connection is that they have been fine. No particular issues afaik.
I have a 14kw solar panel system but my chinese battery has an error fault I would like to find someone to take a look at it – secondly I am looking for consultant to look at my energy needs and suggest cost savings for gas heating setup
@ROSST With 14 kWp. of solar, if your battery capacity is high enough, perhaps you might wish to consider a heat pump as the PV should go some way towards the running cost. Do you export your surplus? (Octopus Energy currently pay 15 pence per kW/h on Octopus Outgoing Fixed.) Regards, Toodles.
On your first point @ROSST your best best is to start with your installer, the manufacturer and dedicated forums possibly on Facebook for your type, since no-one has offered an answer here
on your second point we used https://buildpass.co.uk/blog/low-carbon-retrofitting-the-ultimate-guide/ since they are a local company to us and so that was convenient. Their blogs are useful learning for everyone
https://genous.earth Have a web based information capture system that you can then take at your own pace to whether you make the changes. On gas heating the most useful change is to turn your boiler temperature down so it actually condenses. 60C is a good start.