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Sofar ESI-5 12K-T1 Series Manual

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  • Page 1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Shenzhen SOFARSOLAR Co., Ltd. 11/F, Gaoxinqi Technology Building, District 67, XingDong Community, XinAn Street, Bao’An District, Shenzhen, China Email: service@SOFAR.com Web: www.sofarsolar.com Document number Issue 07 | 05.2024 English...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    CONTENT CONTENT About this manual Copyright declaration Presentation of warnings Presentation of action instructions Note Basic safety information Safety information Symbols and signs Product features Product information Product dimensions Labelling on the device Functional features Application modes Installation Installation information Installation procedure Examination before installation Connections...
  • Page 4 CONTENT 4.15 Connecting the DC lines for the PV modules and battery 4.16 Connecting the AC power cables 4.17 AC connector installation 4.18 Communication interfaces 4.19 Feed-in limitation function 4.20 System monitoring 4.21 Installation of the WiFi Energy storage system construction Energy storage system with BTS 5K batteries Commissioning the inverter Safety test before commissioning...

  • Page 5: About This Manual

    Copyright declaration The copyright of this manual is owned by SOFAR. It may not be copied – neither partially nor completely – by companies or individuals (including software, etc.) and must not be reproduced or distributed in any form, or with the appropriate means.

  • Page 6: Presentation Of Warnings

    ABOUT THIS MANUAL Presentation of warnings This manual contains information on safe operation and uses symbols to ensure the safety of persons and property as well as the effcient operation of the inverter. ▶ Read through the following symbol explanations carefully in order to prevent injury or property damage.

  • Page 7: Presentation Of Action Instructions

    ABOUT THIS MANUAL Presentation of action instructions This table shows the sequence of Action steps: Symbol Function This describes an action requirement ✓ This is the sequence of action steps that must be followed step by step This is a single action step ▶...

  • Page 8: Basic Safety Information

    BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION Basic safety information ▶ If you have any questions or problems after reading the following information, please contact SOFAR This chapter details the safety information pertaining to the installation and operation of the device. Safety information Read and understand the instructions within this manual and familiarise yourself with the relevant safety symbols in this chapter before beginning with the installation of the device and eliminating any faults.

  • Page 9: Qualified Personnel

    ▶ -is familiar with the local laws, standards and regulations of the grid operator. SOFAR assumes no responsibility for the destruction of property or any injuries to personnel caused by improper usage. 2.1.2 Installation requirements Please install the inverter according to the information contained in the following section.
  • Page 10 Authorisation for grid feed-in ▶ Obtain authorisation from the local power grid operator before connecting the inverter to the public power grid. ▶ Do not open the inverter or remove any of the labels. Otherwise, SOFAR shall assume no guarantee. ESI-5...12K-T1...

  • Page 11: Operation

    BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION 2.1.6 Operation DANGER Electric shock ▶ Contact with the electrical grid or the device's terminals may result in an electric shock or fire! ▶ Do not touch the terminal or the conductor which is connected to the electrical grid.

  • Page 12: Symbols And Signs

    Should any repairs be required, please contact a local authorised service centre. ▶ The internal components of the inverter must NOT be opened without the relevant authorisation. Shenzhen SOFAR Co., Ltd. assumes no responsibility for any resulting losses or defects. Symbols and signs CAUTION Beware of burning hazards due to the hot housing! ▶...

  • Page 13: Symbols On The Inverter

    BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION 2.2.1 Symbols on the inverter Several symbols pertaining to safety can be found on the inverter. Please read and understand the content of these symbols before starting the installation. Symbol Description Residual voltage is present in the inverter! Before opening the inverter, you should wait five minutes to ensure that the capacitor has been fully discharged.
  • Page 14 BASIC SAFETY INFORMATION A maximum of 6 layers can be stacked during the stacking process The material can be recycled and recycled. Do not dispose of the equipment with household garbage at its end of life Dispose of it according to local laws and regulations or send it to the manufacturer.

  • Page 15: Product Features

    The ESI-5...12K-T1 is a grid-coupled PV and energy storing inverter which can also supply energy in stand-alone operation. The ESI-5...12K-T1 has integrated energy management functions which cover a wide range of application scenarios. Internet PV-Panels USB logger Sofar Cloud ESI Inverter AC Breaker AC Breaker With RCD Meter GRID...

  • Page 16: Product Dimensions

    PRODUCT FEATURES Product dimensions 44mm 440mm 1 72mm Figure 3-2 Dimensions ESI-5...12K-T1...

  • Page 17: Labelling On The Device

    PRODUCT FEATURES Labelling on the device Labelling must not be covered or removed! Figure 3-3 ESI-5...12K-T1 appearance and label Functional features The DC output generated by the PV generator can be used for both grid feed- in and battery charging. The battery can supply the energy to the grid or the consumer.
  • Page 18 PRODUCT FEATURES ▶ The ESI-5...12K-T1 all have a maximum charge current of 25 A. The ESI-5K-T1 has a maximum discharge current of 15 A, the ESI-6.5K-T1 has a maximum discharge current of 19.5 A, the ESI-8K-T1 has a maximum discharge current of 24 A, the ESI-9.9K-T1 has a maximum discharge current of 29.7 A, and the ESI-10K-T1 has a maximum discharge current of 30 A, the ESI-12K-T1 maximum discharge current is 30A.

  • Page 19: Electrical Block Diagram

    Application modes 3.5.1 Typical energy storage system A typical energy storage system with PV panels and battery unit(s), connected to the grid. PV-Panels USB logger Internet Sofar Cloud ESI Inverter AC Breaker AC Breaker With RCD Meter GRID AC Breaker...
  • Page 20 PRODUCT FEATURES Internet PV-Panels USB logger Sofar Cloud ESI Inverter AC Breaker AC Breaker With RCD Meter GRID AC Breaker Battery Critical Load Normal Load Figure 3-6 System without PV connection 3.5.3 System without battery In this configuration, the battery unit(s) can be added later.
  • Page 21 PRODUCT FEATURES 3.5.4 Back-up mode (off-grid) When there is no grid connection, the PV panels and the battery will provide electricity to the critical load. PV-Panels USB logger Internet Sofar Cloud ESI Inverter AC Breaker AC Breaker With RCD Meter GRID...
  • Page 22 By installing a second smart meter, the PV production can be taken into account and used for charging the battery. Internet PV-Panels USB logger Sofar Cloud PV-Panels Grid-tied ESI Inverter Inverter Mainframe...
  • Page 23 2...4. 3.5.7 Unbalanced load By enabling the “Unbalanced load” option, the inverter compensates unbalanced loads either in EPS mode. PV-Panels USB logger Internet Sofar Cloud ESI Inverter AC Breaker AC Breaker With RCD Battery 1 kW...

  • Page 24: Installation

    INSTALLATION Installation Installation information DANGER Fire hazard ▶ Do NOT install the inverter on flammable material. ▶ Do NOT install the inverter in an area in which flammable or explosive material is stored. CAUTION Burning hazard ▶ Do NOT install the inverter in places where it can be accidentally touched.

  • Page 25: Examination Before Installation

    INSTALLATION Examination before installation After unpacking the inverter, check that the delivery items are both intact and complete. In the event of any damage or missing components, contact the wholesaler. Image Description Quantity PCS Inverter ESI-5...12K-T1 Connection plate Retainer plate(left) Retainer plate(right) PV+ input terminal PV- input terminal...
  • Page 26 INSTALLATION Image Description Quantity PCS M4*12 screws M6*14 screws BAT- connector contact COM connector cable end USB acquisition stick Decorative cover withscrew (left side) Decorative cover withscrew (right side) Three-phase smart meter Base decorative cover Quick installation guide Outgoing inspection report Matching resistance ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 27 INSTALLATION Image Description Quantity PCS GRID wire end female connector LOAD wire end male connector Base 4.3.1 Checking the external packaging materials Packaging materials and components may become damaged during transportation. Therefore, the external packaging materials must be examined before the inverter is installed. Check the external packaging material for damage, e.g.

  • Page 28: Connections

    INSTALLATION Connections CAUTION Damage during transportation ▶ Please check the product packaging and connections carefully prior to installation. Figure 4-1 ESI-5...12K-T1 inverter overview PV input terminals LCD display PV switch AC grid connection Terminal remover AC backup connection Battery power button Wi-Fi /4G BAT switch Communication connection...

  • Page 29: Tools

    INSTALLATION Tools Prepare the tools required for the installation and the electrical connection. Tool Model Function Used to drill holes in the Hammer drill wall. Recommended drill diameter: Screwdriver Wiring Phillips Used remove screwdriver install the screws of the AC terminal Removal tool Used to remove the PV , battery terminal...

  • Page 30: Installation Environment Requirements

    INSTALLATION Safety goggles for the installer Anti-dust for the installer respiratory mask Installation Environment Requirements ▶ Choose a dry, clean, and tidy place, convenient for installation. ▶ Operating temperature range: -30 to +60°C(derating above +45℃). ▶ Relative humidity: 5…95% (non-condensed). ▶...

  • Page 31: Unpacking The Inverter

    INSTALLATION Minimum distances for individual ESI-5...12K-T1 inverters: 30 cm Figure 4-3 Minimum distances for individual inverter Minimum distances for several ESI-5...12K-T1 inverters: Figure 4-4 Minimum distances for several inverter Unpacking the inverter Open the package and hold the handles above the inverter on both sides with both hands.

  • Page 32: Safety Instructions

    INSTALLATION Lift the inverter out of the packaging and move it to its installation position. NOTICE Mechanical damage ▶ In order to prevent injuries and damage to the device, ensure that the inverter is kept balanced while it is being moved - it is very heavy. ▶...
  • Page 33 INSTALLATION DANGER Electrical voltage at the DC connections ▶ Wear rubber gloves and protective clothing (safety goggles and boots) when working on high voltage/high current systems such as inverter and battery systems. NOTICE Qualification ▶ The installation and maintenance of the inverter must be carried out by an electrician.
  • Page 34 INSTALLATION The DVC (decisive voltage classification) is the circuit voltage which constantly occurs between two arbitrary live parts during proper use in a worst-case scenario: Table 4-1 Description of limits for DVC Operating voltage limit(V) Ac voltage (RMS) Ac voltage (PK) Dc voltage (AVG) 25 (16) 35.4 (22.6)

  • Page 35: Wiring Overview

    INSTALLATION 4.10 Wiring overview Table 4-3 Cable description Recommended cable Component Description type BAT+ : Connect the positive cable of the lithium battery Outdoor multicore copper cable (4…6mm²) BAT- : Connect the negative cable of the lithium battery PV+ : Connect the positive cable of the PV array PV cable (4…6mm PV- : Connect the negative...

  • Page 36: System Electrical Topology

    INSTALLATION 4.11 System Electrical Topology The inverters GRID and BACKUP are wired with different N and PE wires depending on the regulatory requirements in different regions. For users in Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, please use the System Electrical Topology in System2.
  • Page 37 INSTALLATION DANGER Install Residual current device (RCD) in front of the load ▶ RCD is necessary for critical load, but optional for normal load. ▶ In off-grid mode, the EPS switch is unprotected and load leakage could lead to shock danger. ▶...

  • Page 38: Smart Meter / Ct

    INSTALLATION 4.12 Smart Meter / CT There are different system configurations possible depending on the user's requirements, existing electrical infrastructure and local regulations. The distribution box must be configured to comply to the grid operator requirements. The inverter has an integrated AC relay to disconnect all phases and Neutral from the grid in case of grid fault or grid outage.
  • Page 39 INSTALLATION 4.12.1 System A: measurement with directly connected energy meter (default) Figure 4-8 Electrical connections (Plan A: Meter) ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 40 INSTALLATION 4.12.2 System B: direct measurement of energy with CTs Figure 4-9 Electrical connections (Plan C: CTs) ESI-5...12K-T1...

  • Page 41: Electrical Connection

    INSTALLATION Directly connected Energy Meter: Table 4-4 Directly connected Smart Meter Technical Data 230 V AC/400 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz Nominal voltage Direct connection: 0–80 A Connection through current Current measurement range transformers: > 80 A 90–1000 V (line voltage; potential transformers are required if the voltage Voltage measurement range is greater than 500 V)

  • Page 42: Connecting The Pe Cables

    INSTALLATION 4.14 Connecting the PE cables Connect the inverter to the equipotential bonding bar by using the protective earth cable (PE) for grounding. NOTICE Pole earthing not permissible! ▶ As the inverter is transformerless, the plus and minus poles of the PV generator must NOT be earthed.

  • Page 43: Connecting The Dc Lines For The Pv Modules And Battery

    INSTALLATION Figure 4-11 Connecting PGND cable(b) 4.15 Connecting the DC lines for the PV modules and battery ▶ The connection steps of the battery and PV are the same, only the terminal specifications are different. The colour of the battery terminal is blue, the colour of PV terminal is black.
  • Page 44 INSTALLATION Crimp the DC cables. The crimped cable must be able to withstand a tractive force of 400 Nm. Figure 4-13 Connecting PV(b) CAUTION Danger of reverse polarity! ▶ Ensure that the polarity is correct before plugging into the DC connections! Insert the crimped DC cables into the corresponding connector housing until you hear a “clicking”...
  • Page 45 INSTALLATION Figure 4-16 Testing PV(e) Insert the positive and negative connectors into the corresponding DC input terminals of the inverter until you hear a “clicking” sound. Figure 4-17 Connecting PV(f) ▶ Insert the protective caps into the unused DC connections. CAUTION Danger of DC arcing ▶...

  • Page 46: Connecting The Ac Power Cables

    INSTALLATION 4.16 Connecting the AC power cables The AC power cables are used to connect the inverter to the critical loads (through the BACKUP port), and the AC power distributor or the power grid. CAUTION AC connection ▶ Each inverter must have its own circuit breaker. ▶...

  • Page 47: Ac Connector Installation

    INSTALLATION 4.17 AC connector installation CAUTION Electrical voltage ▶ Ensure that the grid has been switched off before removing the AC connector Please follow below steps to install the AC connector. Select the suitable cable in accordance with above diagram. Remove the insulating layer of the AC output cable using a wire stripper and in accordance with the following illustration: Figure 4-20 AC connection (a)
  • Page 48 INSTALLATION Connection Cable Phase 1 (brown) Phase 2 (black) Phase 3 (grey) Neutral conductor (blue) Earthing cable (yellow-green) Plug the connector into the port and end when you hear a click. Figure 4-23 AC connection (d) ▶ Use the removal tool to unlock and then rotate counterclockwise to remove the connector.

  • Page 49: Communication Interfaces

    INSTALLATION 4.18 Communication interfaces The positions of the communications interfaces of the ESI-5...12K-T1 are displayed below: Figure 4-24 ESI-5…12K-T1 interfaces Connection Function Connect battery read battery communication information or assist with battery software port upgrades. USB port for firmware upgrade and safety Wi-Fi /4G parameter import;...
  • Page 50 INSTALLATION 4.18.1 Multifunctional Communication Port Definition Please refer to the following table for the specific PIN assignments. Linkport1 Linkport2 Linkport3 Linkport4 Linkport5 Linkport6 Linkport7 Figure 4-25 COM interfaces LinkPort1（Link port for Wallbox & Battery） Colour Connection Function Orange Wallbox- Wallbox-RS485 differential White RS485 A signal+...
  • Page 51 INSTALLATION LinkPort3（Link port for Meter & CT） Colour Connection Function Orange Meter- Meter-RS485 differential White RS485 A signal+ Meter- Meter-RS485 differential Orange RS485 B signal- Green White CT A+ CT A differential signal+ Blue CT B+ CT B differential signal+ Blue White CT B- CT B differential signal-...
  • Page 52 INSTALLATION LinkPort7（Link port for Dry Contact） Ports Connection Function DI IN Dry contact input signal DI GND Dry contact ground signal Dry contact normal high DO NO signal Dry contact DO COM communication signals Wet contact normal high WO1 NO signal 1 Wet contact ground signal WO1 GND...
  • Page 53 INSTALLATION Figure 4-27 COM connector production (b) After removing the stopper, pass the cable through the connector gland, connector clip and connector through-hole. Crimp the cable to the terminal connector in the colours shown below : Figure 4-28 COM connector production (c) After assembling the connectors in order, insert the RJ45 connector into the corresponding terminal of the COM port: Figure 4-29 COM connector production (d)

  • Page 54: Smart Meter

    INSTALLATION 4.18.3 Smart meter The integrated energy management functions integrated of the ESI 5...12K-T1 require to measure the power flow at the point of grid interconnection. There are different system configurations possible. It can be measured using directly connected smart meter or using smart meter with CTs. The PIN assignment for the RS485 connection between inverter and smart meter can be found in the table below.
  • Page 55 INSTALLATION Figure 4-32 Directly Meter Electrical Connection ▶ No additional configuration required for direct-connected meters ▶ Up to 80 A measurement ▶ Accuracy class and load rating (VA/Ω):1 class ▶ Rated operating voltage: 90 – 1000 V (line voltage; potential transformers are required if the voltage is greater than 500 V) ▶...
  • Page 56 INSTALLATION Smart Meter Configuration The smart meter is preconfigured to be used with the inverter with these settings: ▶ Modbus Address: 1 ▶ Baud Rate: 9600 ▶ Current Ratio: 60:1 In case you want to change or check the settings, please refer to below procedure: Modbus Address and Baud Rate setting Figure 4-33 Meter address and baud rate setting...

  • Page 57: Parallel Port

    INSTALLATION 4.18.4 Parallel Port In systems with multiple inverters, you can connect the devices in a Master/Slave configuration. In this configuration, only one energy meter is connected to the Master inverter for the system control. ▶ Be careful when the parallel inverters are connected, then the communication cable should not be bundled with the power cable (GRID - BACKUP) in one cable channel or to be very close, it may cause abnormal faults in the parallel system.
  • Page 58 INSTALLATION First, connect the Linkport4 port cable in the COM port cable set to the control unit in accordance with the wire sequence required by the safety regulations: PIN 8 brown brown/white green Communication Control blue/white blue Terminal Unit green/white orange orange/white PIN 1...
  • Page 59 INSTALLATION blue DRM4/8 blue/white RefGen green DRM0 brown/white Internally shorted brown Logic interface for VDE-AR-N 4105:2018-11 This function serves to control and/or limit the output power of the inverter. The inverter can be connected to a radio ripple control receiver in order to dynamically limit the output power of all inverters within the system.

  • Page 60: Feed-In Limitation Function

    INSTALLATION *) When using this function on your own, make sure that the normally open relay is disconnected before use, and provide the drive signal for the relay on your own. *) Priority: DI 1> DI 2> DI 3> DI 4 Logic interface for EN50549-1:2019 The active power output can be ended within five seconds following a command to the input interface.

  • Page 61: System Monitoring

    INSTALLATION 3-phase limit: The sum of the feed-in power of all three phases must not exceed the set power limit value. This setting is suitable for balancing metering, as is common in Germany, for example. ▶ For the 3-phase limit setting, the current sensors must be correctly assigned to phases L1, L2 and L3 on the electricity meter! ▶...
  • Page 62 4.21.1 Configuration of the WiFi stick via the web browser Preparation: The WiFi stick is installed in accordance with the previous section and the SOFAR inverter must be in operation. ▶ WiFi network need to support 2.4 GHz mode. WiFi stick logger doesn’t support 5 GHz network!
  • Page 63 INSTALLATION Step 1 Open a web browser, enter https://eu.sofarcloud.com in the address box, and press Enter. The login page is displayed. Step 2 Click Register. The Registration page is displayed. Step 3 Sign up as an owner as prompted. ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 64 If Bluetooth connection fails many times, please contact us. ▶ For additional App permissions like Firmware Upgrade or safety settings, please contact the local SOFAR service. Configuration steps After starting the app, register as a new user or enter the current SofarCloud access data.
  • Page 65 INSTALLATION WiFi Logger Configuration Network Step 1 The phone connects to the wifi, but it should be noted that the wifi needs to be the same as the wifi that the logger is connected to. Step2 Open SofarCloud, go to “maintenance” and click “Scan” ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 66 INSTALLATION Step3 The app aligns the QR code of the logger and scans it. Step4 Select wifi logger and enter the wifi password manually. ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 67 INSTALLATION Step5 Follow the instructions on the app step by step. Step6 Waiting for the app to connect to the capture stick.After successful configuration, wait for about 5min for SofarCloud to have data reported. ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 68 INSTALLATION WiFi stick status The LEDs on the WiFi stick provide information regarding the status: Status Description Communicatio On: Connection to server successful n with the Flashing (1 sec.): Connection to router router successful Flashing (0.1 sec.): WPS mode active Off: No connection to router Communicatio Flashing (1 sec.): Communication with...

  • Page 69: Energy Storage System Construction

    ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION Energy storage system construction ▶ ESI series inverters have different control schemes when matched with different batteries, please select the corresponding battery in the inverter according to the software chapter. Energy storage system with BTS 5K batteries 5.1.1 Configurations BTS Battery for Stacked Inverter Stacked installation supports expansion of up to six batteries.
  • Page 70 ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION 5.1.2 Confirmation of mounting position ESI series products can be stacked and installed with batteries to form a photovoltaic storage system. The location of the inverters and batteries needs to be evaluated at the beginning of the installation, as shown in the following diagram: Figure 5-2 installation dimensions diagram Stack the battery modules according to the battery installation manual and...
  • Page 71 ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION Figure 5-3 Pedestal installation 5.1.4 Stacked Batteries & Inverters Figure 5-4 Battery module and inverter installation diagram Place the first battery module on the base. Install connectors on both sides and tighten the six screws with a cross screwdriver.

  • Page 72: Anti-Tip Bracket Installation

    ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION Install the remaining battery modules and BDU from bottom to top. (Before installing the next module, ensure that the screws on the side connectors of the previous module are firmly installed.) 5.1.5 Anti-tip bracket installation Drill holes with a hammer drill (φ 8mm, depth range 60-65 mm). Reposition and drill the holes, if the original one has a large deviation.
  • Page 73 ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION 5.1.6 Installation of PE cable The inverter accessory clock contains a ground wire connected to the battery. Install the crimped ring terminal and the washer with the M6 screws and tighten these with a torque of 5 N·m using an Allen key. All inverter and battery enclosures must be connected to an PE cable.

  • Page 74: Power Cables Connection

    ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION 5.1.7 Power cables connection Figure 5-8 Connection of battery internal DC terminal Connect the power ports (BAT+, BAT-) of the inverter to the cascading positive and negative power cables (B+, B-) of the battery module. Connect the remaining battery modules from top to bottom, and secure the cables with cable ties.
  • Page 75 ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION 5.1.8 BMS communication cable connection Connect the inverter LinkPort2 to the battery module Link Port in. Connect the communication terminals of the inverter and the battery module from top to bottom according to the diagram below and secure them with cable ties. For the communication cables, tighten the large nut first, then the small nut.

  • Page 76: Install The Cover

    ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION 5.1.9 Install the cover After electrical connections are complete and cable connections are correct and reliable, install the external protective cover and secure it using screws. Figure 5-10 Install the cover ESI-5...12K-T1...

  • Page 77: Commissioning The Inverter

    COMMISSIONING THE INVERTER Commissioning the inverter Safety test before commissioning NOTICE Check the voltage range ▶ Ensure that the DC and AC voltages are within the permissible range of the inverter. Double Check Please ensure that the inverter and all the wiring are installed correctly, securely, and reliably, and that all environment requirements are met.

  • Page 78: Initial Setup

    COMMISSIONING THE INVERTER Turn ON AC circuit breaker between the inverter BACKUP port & critical load. Inverter should start to operate now. Initial setup You need to set the following parameters before inverter starts to operate. Parameter Note 1. Language setting The default is English 2.
  • Page 79 Ensure that you have selected the correct country code according to regional authority requirements, and consult a qualified electrician or employees of electrical safety authorities. ▶ SOFAR is not responsible for the consequences of selecting the incorrect country code. ▶ The selected country code influences the device grid monitoring. The inverter continuously checks the set limits and, if required, disconnects the device from the grid.

  • Page 80: Operation Of The Device

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Operation of the device This chapter describes the LCD and LED displays of the ESI-5...12K-T1 inverter. Control panel and display field 7.1.1 Buttons and display lights Buttons Button Name Description Back Previous screen, enter menu Select previous menu item, increase setting value Select next menu item, decrease setting Down...

  • Page 81: Standard Display

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE LEDs State Colour State Green Normal On-grid Green (flashing) Standby Green Normal Off-grid Green (flashing) Standby Alarm Error Standard display The screen shows all relevant information of the inverter: Used to display the current working status of ①...

  • Page 82: Work Modes

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE ⑥ Home Energy consumed by household loads Consumption ⑦ PV channel Used to display the current number of PV enable state input channels open Displays the current operating mode of the inverter, the specific operating mode is ⑧...
  • Page 83 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE If PV generation is larger than the load consumption, surplus power is stored in the battery If the battery is full or at maximum charging power, the excess power will be exported to the grid If the PV generation is less than the load consumption, it will discharge the battery to supply power to the load.
  • Page 84 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Setting Method 2: Battery First : Enabled，Battery First Cut-off SOC : 90%; Charging From Grid: Disabled. The priority of power supply: PV, Battery, Grid. The priority of power consumption: Loads, Battery, Grid. Set Self-use Mode 2 If the PV power is less than or equal to the battery charging power and the battery SOC is less than 90%,...
  • Page 85 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Setting Method 3: Bat Priority Control : Disabled; Import to Charge Battery : Enabled. When the inlet battery charging enable is turned on, the user can set the amount of specific charging time range, the maximum battery charging power, and the maximum cut-off SOC for forced charging through the LCD.
  • Page 86 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Setting Method 4: Battery First : Enabled; Charging From Grid : Enabled. In this mode, the Battery First and Battery First Cut-off SOC functions are in effect at the same time, see Setting Method2, 3 for details. Setting Method 4 ESI-5...12K-T1...
  • Page 87 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE 7.3.2 Feed-in Priority Mode With the Feed-in Priority Mode, In this mode, the user can set the maximum feeder power, which is used to generate the remaining energy after the PV power meets the load consumption. Feed-in Priority Mode In this mode, the user can set the maximum feeder power, when the...
  • Page 88 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE consumption and the occasions where the power grid is weak. In the weak grid situation, batteries start only when the load power exceeds a certain value, which reduces the maximum power of the connecting point and prolongs the battery life.
  • Page 89 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Charging From Grid：Enable When “Charging From Grid” is enabled and there is not enough PV power to supply the load and the load consumes less than the Import Power Limit, the grid starts to supply power, which is less than then Import Power Limit setting.

  • Page 90: Passive Mode

    The passive mode is used in systems with external energy management systems. The inverter's operation will be controlled by the external controller using the Modbus RTU protocol. Please contact SOFAR if you need the Modbus protocol definition for this device.

  • Page 91: Menu Structure

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE 7.3.6 Energy Storage Settings In this interface the user can set four battery charging and discharging states, Charge Limit SOC, On-grid Discharge Limit SOC, Off-grid Discharge Limit SOC, Off-grid Recovery Discharge SOC. Menu structure Press the button to bring up the main menu.

  • Page 92: System Information Menu

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE System Settings Advanced Settings Firmware Upgrade The menu layout may vary according to different firmware versions. 7.4.2 “System Information” menu 1.Inverter Inverter(1) Serial Number, Rated Power, Firmware Version, Grid Code Inverter(2) Bat Channel, PV Channel 1, PV Channel 2, PV Channel 3 Inverter(3) Work Mode, RS485 Address, BACKUP, IV...
  • Page 93 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE 7.4.3 “Real-time Information” menu 1.PV 1.1 PV(1) PV1 Voltage, PV1 Current, PV1 Power, PV2 Voltage, PV2 Current, PV2 Power 1.2 PV(2) PV3 Voltage, PV3 Current, PV3 Power, External PV Power 2.BAT 2.1BAT Port Info Voltage, Current, Power, SOC, State 2.2BAT real info Voltage, Current, Power, SOC, Max Charge Current, Max Discharge Current, Max Cell...

  • Page 94: System Settings Menu

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Press”<Enter>”to toggle between event name and trigger time.) 7.4.5 “Energy Statistics” menu In this menu, you can view the PV, battery, load, and grid energy usage status of different channels in real time and different years, months and days. Today Press Down button to move between items Month...
  • Page 95 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Enable / disable the off-grid mode. It is 4.4 BACKUP only available if a battery is connected Sets the work mode and energy storage 5.Work Mode setting 5.1 Work Mode Select between Self-use(Standard), Feed- in Priority, Peak Shaving, Time-of-use, Passive.

  • Page 96: Advanced Settings Menu

    OPERATION OF THE DEVICE 7.4.7 “Advanced Settings” menu Password ▶ Several settings require a password to be entered (the standard password is 0715/0001). In this menu you can do advanced settings. 1.Battery 1.1 30 Days SOC Calibration Enable / Disable. When BTS-5K battery...
  • Page 97 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE current flowing to the grid (reverse current), reduce the output power of the inverter, so that the power flowing from the inverter to the grid is always connected to a state smaller than the set value, so as to realize the anti- reverse current and not to send the excess power to the grid.
  • Page 98 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE 8.Unbalanced Support Default setting: disabled In situations where the customer only wants to support the local loads or has a zero-export limit across all three phases. When used in conjunction with the supplied three-phase energy meter and with this option set to "enable", the per phase output current inverter will...

  • Page 99: "Firmware Upgrade" Menu

    7.4.8 “Firmware Upgrade” menu The user can update the software via the USB flash drive. SOFAR will provide the firmware upgrade when it is required. ▶ If you want to do a firmware upgrade, please upgrade with PV input or grid status, the update will fail if only the battery is connected.
  • Page 100 OPERATION OF THE DEVICE Insert the USB flash drive into the USB interface of the inverter. Go to menu item "7.Firmware Upgrade" on the LCD display. Enter the password (the standard password is 0715) and then select "Firmware Upgrade". Enter the password (the standard password is 0715) and then select "Inverter"...

  • Page 101: Troubleshooting Handling

    TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Troubleshooting handling Troubleshooting This section contains information and procedures pertaining to the remedying of potential problems with the inverter. To carry out troubleshooting, proceed as follows: ▶ Check the warnings, error messages or error codes displayed on the screen of the inverter.

  • Page 102: Earth Fault Alarm

    TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Disconnect the PV side DC switch. Turn off the battery and disconnect the DC switch between the battery and the inverter. Wait for 5 minutes before checking the inverter. ▶ After using the menu setting to shut down the inverter, the inverter should be checked and reenergising, it still needs to be on the main menu page.

  • Page 103: Error List

    TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Error list 8.2.1 Inverter error list Code Name Description Solution The voltage of the If the alarm occurs occasionally, the GridOVP power grid is too possible cause is that the electric grid high is abnormal occasionally. Inverter will automatically return to normal The voltage of the GridUVP...
  • Page 104 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution grid’s back to normal. If the alarm occurs frequently, check whether the grid voltage/frequency is within the acceptable range. If yes, please check the AC circuit breaker and AC wiring of the inverter. If the grid voltage/frequency is NOT Power grid line VGridLineFault within the acceptable range and AC...
  • Page 105 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution Internal faults of inverter. Switch OFF SpiCommFault communication inverter, wait for 5 minutes, then (AC) is fault (AC) switch ON inverter. Check whether the problem is solved. Inverter failed to InvSoftStartFail If no, please contact technical support. output ArcShutdownA Arc shutdown...
  • Page 106 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution Master does not Check the parallel mode settings for ParallelFault exist or is the inverter. Check whether the wiring duplicate is correct. For Inner BMS battery, make sure that the battery NTC cable is properly connected.
  • Page 107 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution The DC bus voltage is too low BusUVP during mains connection The DC bus BusZVP voltage is too low Check whether the PV series voltage (Voc) is higher than the maximum The PV input input voltage of the inverter.
  • Page 108 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution Software If the error persists, contact technical overcurrent support. SwBatOCP protection of the Internal error of the inverter. Switch off battery the inverter, wait 5 minutes and then switch the unit on again. Dci overcurrent DciOCP If the error persists, contact technical protection...
  • Page 109 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution Battery hardware If the error persists, contact technical HwBatOCP overflow support. Internal error of the inverter. Switch off PV hardware HwPVOCP the inverter, wait 5 minutes and then overflows switch the unit on again. Mains current is If the error persists, contact technical too high and has...
  • Page 110 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution The battery is BatReversalCo Check whether the battery wiring is connected nnect correct. reversedly Mains current is Internal error of the inverter. Switch off too high and has the inverter, wait 5 minutes and then PermHwAcOC caused an switch the unit on again.
  • Page 111 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution The safety version Check whether safety regulations is inconsistent SafetyVerFault comply with local standards and with the internal import correct safety parameters. safety version SCILose(DC) communication Upgrade software error (DC) SCILose(AC) communication Upgrade software error (AC) Download the latest firmware from the Inconsistent...
  • Page 112 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution BMS High If the error persists, contact technical BMS OTP temperature support. warning BMS low BMS UTP temperature warning BMS overload warning during BMS OCP charging and discharging BMS Short circuit BMS Short Please contact technical support. alarm Download the latest firmware from the BMS CAN...
  • Page 113 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Code Name Description Solution AFCI AFCICommLos Please ensure proper installation of the communication AFCI breaker. error Internal error in the connected lithium BAT low battery. Switch off the inverter and the temperature lithium battery, wait 5 minutes and BatChargeLTP warning when then switch the components on again.
  • Page 114 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Name Description Solution Charging If the battery is almost fully, no action StopChgW prohibition required. Otherwise, please arning alarm contact technical support. Discharging If the battery is almost empty, no StopDchg prohibition action is required. Otherwise, please Warning alarm contact technical support.
  • Page 115 TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Name Description Solution Permanent unrecoverB short-circuit Restart the battery and wait for usSCP protection minutes. If the problem is not resolved, please contact technical Permanent unrecoverB support. battery atActFail activation failed Check whether the wiring is correct Permanent bus unrecoverB restart the battery.

  • Page 116: Maintenance

    TROUBLESHOOTING HANDLING Name Description Solution HeatsinkLo Heatsink low Please make sure that the heatsink wTempFaul temperature temperature is not lower than the fault temperature limit of the battery. Low ambient Please make sure that the ambient EnyLowTe temperature, temperature is not lower than the mpFault battery failure temperature limit of the battery.

  • Page 117: Datasheet

    DATASHEET Datasheet ▶ The following parameters may change without notice，please refer to the user manual and Datasheet on our website. ESI-6.5K ESI-9.9K ESI-10K ESI-12K Model ESI-5K-T1 ESI-8K-T1 -T1-A PV Input Recommended Max. PV 10 kWp 13kWp 16 kWp 20 kWp 20 kWp 24 kWp Power...
  • Page 118 DATASHEET ESI-6.5K ESI-9.9K ESI-10K ESI-12K Model ESI-5K-T1 ESI-8K-T1 -T1-A Peak Output Apparent 2 times of rated power, 10s Power[3] THDv(@ linear load) <3% Switching Time 10 ms default Asymmetric load Yes, Supports 100% three-phase unbalanced load AC Grid Rated Voltage 3(N)~+PE,380/400/415 Va.c.
  • Page 119 Display LCD & APP [1] Minimum PV voltage to start MPPT operation. [2] Please refer to document “SOFAR inverter Model compatible battery list”. [3] Full battery and sun. [4] Battery-AC maximum efficiency of battery charge and discharge. [5] According to EN/IEC 61643-11.
  • Page 120 ESI-5...12K-T1...

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