Sungrow Inverter and battery Review
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Company History
Unlike other inverter companies that evolved from well-established power electronics manufacturers, Sungrow was founded in 1997 by Cao Renxian, a Hefei University of Technology professor who wanted to improve the electricity supply in rural western China using renewable energy. This motivation to help supply renewable energy was the foundation for one of the most successful inverter companies in the world. Sungrow Power Supply Co Ltd is now one of the world’s largest inverter manufacturers, with a net worth of $1.5 billion and specialises in R&D, manufacturing and services of power supply systems for wind energy, battery storage and conversion, electric vehicles and solar PV power systems.
Another rather commendable characteristic of Sungrow is the company actively participates in many social welfare activities, including poverty alleviation, donations to schools, disaster relief, and seeks to enhance the sustainability of public welfare practices. This level of social corporate responsibility possibly evolved from the generous nature of the founder and became ingrained in the company culture.
Sungrow Inverters Quick Summary
First established: 1997 - Long-standing company
Best Solar inverter: New SG (G3) series 3kW to 10kW
Best Hybrid inverter: SH-RS series up to 10kW (NEW)
Price bracket: Med $$$$
Warranty: Very Good - 10 years
Quality and reliability: Excellent 5/5
Service and support: Good 4/5
System Monitoring: Very Good 5/5
Overall: Recommended ☆☆☆☆☆
Sungrow range of inverters 2024
Sungrow is one of the few companies offering solar inverters designed for residential, commercial and utility-scale grid-tie systems and small and large-scale battery storage systems. However, this review will focus on the popular Sungrow inverters and batteries for residential and small commercial applications.
Inverters and batteries covered in this review
SG-RS - Residential Solar Inverters - Single-phase up to 10kW
SG-RT - Residential Solar Inverters - 3-phase up to 20kW
SH5K-30 - Residential Hybrid Inverter - 5kW Single-phase
SH-RS - Residential Hybrid Inverter - Single-Phase up to 10kW (New)
SH-RT - Residential Hybrid Inverter - 3-Phase up to 10kW
SBR battery - modular HV Battery system
SG-CX range - Commercial Solar Inverters - 3-Phase
SG-CX-P2 range - Commercial Solar Inverters - 3-Phase (NEW)
SG Series Solar Inverters
The residential SG series solar inverters from Sungrow have become very popular due to their competitive price and great reliability. The sales figures show they are Australia's second biggest-selling solar inverter by volume, coming second only to Fronius. Sungrow Inverters have a very good reputation for quality and service from the Sydney-based support office, which has further helped improve their status.
NEW SG-RS (G3) Solar Inverters
The third-generation SG-RS series string inverters from Sungrow are now available and come packed with an impressive range of features at an affordable price. Improvements include a very low 50V minimum MPPT operating voltage, which enables very short strings of only two panels, and an increased input current limit from 12.5A to 16A with a higher 20A Maximum, making it a good match for the more powerful higher-current solar panels now available. The larger 5kW, 8kW, and 10KW versions now feature 3 x MPPTs, making it perfect for larger solar arrays and allowing for more flexible designs.
The 3-phase variety is the SG-RT series, available in 5, 7, 8, and 10kW sizes with 2 MPPTs and a maximum input voltage of 1000V. Unfortunately, the 3-phase series does not have a built-in display and is limited to only 2 MPPTs, although it does have a much higher current input rating for parallel strings.
String Solar Inverters - SG series (Gen3)
| Model | Phases | Sizes (kW) | No. MPPTs | Solar Oversizing # |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SG-RS-S | Single-Phase | 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 | 1 x MPPT | Up to 200% |
| SG-RS | Single-Phase | 3.0, 5.0 | 2 x MPPT | Up to 200% |
| SG-RS-ADA | Single-Phase | 5.0, 8.0, 10.0 | 3 x MPPT | Up to 200% |
| SG-RT | 3-Phase | 5.0, 7.0, 10, 15, 20 | 2 x MPPT | Up to 200% |
# Solar oversizing is when the solar array size (kW) exceeds the inverter size. For example, 200% oversizing means a 5kW inverter can have up to 10kW of solar panels. Most modern solar inverters allow up to 150% oversizing, but some manufacturers allow up to 200% provided the maximum string voltage (Voc) and current (Isc) do NOT exceed the inverter input limits.
Inverter Features and highlights
New modern design with LCD display (exc SG-RT)
Up to 3 x MPPTs on the ADA model (single-phase)
Solar oversizing up to 200% allowed
Extra wide MPPT operating voltage range
Increased input current of 16A per MPPT (Max 20A)
Built-in smart PID recovery function
IV curve scan for advanced diagnostics
A stand-out feature of the new SG-RS and SG-RT (3-phase) series inverters is the built-in smart PID recovery function that reduces or eliminates the degradation problem due to potential induced degradation (PID) in solar panels. Like the Hybrid SH-RS inverters described below, the new SG-RS inverters also feature advanced diagnostic tools, including an IV curve scan, which helps determine if the solar panels have any faults or serious degradation issues. Like most modern string inverters, the Sungrow residential inverters are cooled via passive cooling using a large rear heatsink. Due to the efficient design, no power de-rating is specified to occur below 45 deg C ambient temperature, which is impressive for a passively cooled inverter.
Say goodbye to the old SG inverter
The old SG series string solar inverter
The previous model SG series inverters were very popular and came in three variations: the S series, the D series, and the TL series. Available in 3kW, 5kW or 8kW sizes.
The SG Premium series was extremely popular but is also being phased out. It replaced the older range at the end of May 2020 and featured an LCD display, built-in DC isolator and Quick Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (QAFCI).
See the old Sungrow SG series datasheet.
Sungrow Energy Storage Inverters
Sungrow, along with Goodwe, were two of the first companies to develop compact, affordable hybrid inverters for residential battery storage way back in 2015. While the early hybrid inverters were very limited in power, they proved to be very reliable and paved the way for the much more powerful SH series hybrid inverters, which now provide instantaneous backup power of up to 200% solar oversizing to enable homes to become highly self-sufficient.
Sungrow Hybrid Inverter Summary - SH Series
| Model | Phases | Sizes (kW) | No. MPPTs | Solar Oversizing # | Backup Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SH-RS 3-6.0 | Single-Phase | 3.0, 3.6, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0 | 2 x MPPT | Up to 200% | 6kW (all models) |
| SH-RS 8.0-10 | Single-Phase | 8.0, 10.0 | 4 x MPPT | Up to 200% | 8kW / 10kW |
| SH-RT 5.0-10 | 3-Phase | 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, 10.0 | 2 x MPPT | Up to 150% | 5kW, 6kW, 8kW, 10kW |
SH-RS Hybrid Inverters - Single-Phase
Following the release of the SH-RT 3-phase hybrid series, Sungrow released a single-phase version compatible with the high-voltage (HV) Sungrow LFP battery system described below, along with several other HV battery systems, including those from BYD and LG. The new-look lightweight SH-RS series is available in sizes from 3.0kW to 6.0kW and features modern styling, instantaneous backup power, high efficiency and a wide operating temperature range from -25 to 60°C.
NEW larger 8kW and 10kW hybrid inverters
Sungrow recently announced more powerful 8kW and 10KW versions of the SH-RS hybrid inverters will be available from September 2023 with an impressive 4 MPPTs and an incredible peak backup power rating of 13.6kW for 10 seconds, making it one of the most powerful single-phase hybrid inverters available. At this level, this inverter can even back up very large loads, including large air-conditioning systems, water pumps, and other high-surge loads if required.
Advanced features - PID
The SH series inverters also boast some very advanced diagnostic tools, including an IV curve scan, which helps determine if the solar panels have any faults or serious degradation issues. However, a stand-out feature is the built-in smart PID recovery function that reduces or eliminates the problem of degradation due to potential induced degradation (PID) in solar panels. These very useful tools are generally only available on large utility-scale inverters, so this makes the new SH-RS hybrid inverter one of the most advanced and sophisticated residential inverters in the world. Learn more about the impressive Sungrow PID recovery technology here.
Download the full Sungrow SH-RS 3-6kW inverter datasheet.
Download the full Sungrow SH-RS 8-10kW inverter datasheet.
SH-RT 3-phase hybrid inverter
Image credit Sungrow
This is one inverter series that has been very well received by the solar industry. Unlike the wide variety of single-phase hybrid inverter options, until a few years ago, there were a limited number of 3-phase hybrid inverters available for households. Thankfully, Sungrow has developed what appears to be some of the most advanced 3-phase hybrid inverters to date. The new SH-RT range is available in 5.0kW, 6.0kW, 8.0kW and 10kW power ratings, but the initial release will only feature the 5kW and 10kW models, with the 8kW model coming at a later stage. (6kW model not available in Australia).
The new hybrid inverters feature a wide HV battery voltage range from 150V to 600V and extra high charge/discharge ratings up to 10.6kW. They also contain dual MPPTs with a wide operating voltage range from 200V to 950V, plus solar oversizing allowed up to 200%, often needed for charging a battery and powering loads during poor weather.
Download the full Sungrow SH5.0/6.0/8.0/10/RT specification datasheet.
Connection layout on the SH-RT 3-phase hybrid inverter
Sungrow SBR Battery System
Sungrow developed a modular high-voltage (HV) battery system to complement its range of SH-RT 3-phase and SH-RS single-phase hybrid inverters. The new system is easily scalable, and offers increased efficiency from 98% to 98.4% thanks to the lower conversion losses achievable at higher voltages. The system comprises a base unit, a head unit containing the BMS, a slide-in switchgear DC isolator, and multiple 3.2kWh lithium battery modules. The high-voltage 3.2kWh batteries are built using Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) cells which are considered the safest and longest-lasting battery cell chemistry. They also contain no Cobalt, making them more sustainable compared to the lithium MNC cells used by other manufacturers.
The Sungrow SBR high-voltage modular battery system details
The minimum battery size is 9.6kWh using three modules, which is generally enough for the average household. The system also has an impressive power rating with a peak output of 6.57kW using three modules and a 17.5kW peak output from 8 modules stacked in series. The price is also extremely competitive, coming in at around $660 per kWh, making it one of the most affordable lithium batteries on the market.
Sungrow SBR HV Battery features
Type: HV DC battery system - Stackable lithium LFP modules
Minimum Size: 3 modules or 9.6kWh with 100% usable capacity
Maximum Size: up to 100kWh with 4 stacks of 8 modules in parallel
Module power - approximately 1.92kW continuous, 2.2kW peak (per module)
Stack power - up to 15.3kW per stack of 8 modules.
Protection - Inbuilt DC circuit breaker
Price: $6400 for 9.6kWh or approx $660 per kWh plus installation
Warranty: 10 years
Compatibility: Sungrow SH-RT and SH-RS series inverters
See the full Sungrow SBR HV battery specification datasheet.
CX Series Commercial Inverters
As the world’s second-largest manufacturer of industrial and utility inverters, Sungrow offer a wide range of string inverters and central inverters designed for larger MW scale installations. However, here we’ll focus on the smaller 3-phase string solar inverters for commercial installations.
The Sungrow CX range of commercial string inverters - Image credit sungrow
For the global market, the new look CX series commercial string inverters are available in a range of sizes including 33kW, 40kW, 50kW, plus the extra-large 110kW model. These next-generation inverters have an impressive list of features (ref below) making them some of the most advanced 3-phase inverters on the market.
Sungrow SG50CX 3-phase string inverter with 5 x MPPT’s - Click to enlarge
CX Inverter features
Built-in DC isolator
Active cooling system
PID recovery function
PV over-sizing up to 150%
Inbuilt IV curve scan
IP66 with C5 anti-corrosion
Installation angle from 90° to 170°
In Australia, the CX model range is slightly different and includes a 30kW (29.9kVA) model with 3 x MPPTs, a 50kW model with 5 x MPPTs, and the larger 110kW model with 9 x MPPTs. (The 40kW unit is not available in Australia).
See the Sungrow SG30CX specification datasheet.
See the Sungrow SG110CX datasheet and SG33/40/50CX datasheet.
10-year warranty
In the past, all Sungrow inverters had a standard 5-year and optional 10-year warranty on some models. Sungrow now offers a 10-year warranty on most new-generation inverters sold in Australia from the 1st of April 2020 to supply customers with better service. This includes the following models:
SG2K-S (Premium) , SG2K5-S (Premium), SG3K-S(Premium), SG3K-D (Premium) , SG5K-D (Premium), SG8K-D (Premium), SH5.0RT, SH10RT, SH5K-30, SG5KTL-MT, SG10KTL,MT, SG15KTLM, SG20KTLM, SG30CX (Premium), SG50CX (Premium), SG110CX (Premium). At present, the warranty extension is applied to inverters purchased and installed in Australia only.
Solar Monitoring
New look iSolarCloud for 2024
Sungrow inverters feature Wifi monitoring as standard (using the included dongle) on all models and use the new, modern, cloud-based monitoring portal iSolarCloud, a huge improvement over the previous outdated monitoring platform. The new free smartphone app is also very simple and works quite well.
Consumption monitoring was an issue on the older SG models, but the premium SG inverters now all support it. It’s simple to set up with a smart energy meter plus the logger1000 or WIFI dongle.
The new look Sungrow ISolarCloud main monitoring platform
Sungrow offers a variety of meters, dongles and data loggers (logger1000 controller) for single and three-phase installations. Note that energy meters are required for export limiting and battery storage systems to function. The Sungrow hybrid inverters come with a S100 meter & dongle included.
Summary
With a long history of manufacturing renewable power systems and very good feedback from our network of solar installers, Sungrow is an excellent option for those wanting a reliable, cost-effective inverter for solar or energy storage systems. This is further reinforced by the 10-year warranty now standard on most next-generation inverters. For residential rooftop systems, the Sungrow SG series inverters have become a popular choice, and the new and improved IsolarCloud online portal makes monitoring and firmware upgrades easy.
On the commercial side, the range of CX string inverters not only looks impressive but has a long list of standard features, including smart active cooling systems, inbuilt IV curve scan, PV over-sizing up to 150%, PID recovery, and 12 x MPPTs on the new SG110CX-P2 model, making them some of the most advanced inverters on the market.
Regarding battery storage, the slick new SH-RT and SH-RS series hybrid inverters and high-voltage modular SBR battery system are a powerful and affordable combination with instantaneous backup power, making it a reliable option for households requiring backup power. Additionally, the SH series hybrid inverters feature some of the most advanced diagnostic tools and innovative PID recovery technology to reduce the common problem of panel PID degradation. For larger energy storage requirements, Sungrow offers a range of utility-scale energy storage systems and is looking to become one of the industry leaders in this space.
