The latest evaluation report from the Berlin University of Applied Sciences offers a detailed analysis of HOME-ESS (Home Energy Storage Systems) products available in the German market. This assessment, which includes testing of inverters and batteries across two power ranges (5kW and 10kW), provides valuable insights into the performance, efficiency, and capacity of leading products from renowned brands like Sonnen, BYD, Fronius, Goodwe, KOSTAL, RCT, and KACO.
Key Findings from the Evaluation Report
1. Top Performers in the 5kW Power Range
In the 5kW power range, the standout performer was the combination of the Fronius Primo GEN24 6.0 hybrid inverter and the BYD Battery-Box Premium HVS 7.7. This setup achieved the highest ranking due to its superior performance across various key indicators including efficiency, available capacity, and standby power.
2. Top Performers in the 10kW Power Range
For the 10kW power range, the RCT DC 10.0 emerged as the top performer with an impressive System Performance Index (SPI) score of 95.1%. This product outperformed others in the high-power category, showcasing its effectiveness and reliability.
Detailed Performance Analysis
Efficiency and Battery Capacity Testing
The evaluation report highlights a distinction between AC-coupled and DC-coupled HOME-ESS products:
- AC-Coupled Inverters: Function solely as battery inverters.
- DC-Coupled Inverters: Hybrid inverters that connect both battery and photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Testing encompassed various performance metrics, including:
- PV to AC Efficiency
- PV to Battery Efficiency
- AC to Battery Efficiency
- Battery to AC Efficiency
The report notes discrepancies between actual measured capacities and manufacturer specifications. Notably, some capacities were overestimated by nearly 20%, though more than half of the tested capacities exceeded the stated specifications. These discrepancies may be attributed to differing testing methodologies between laboratory and manufacturer practices.
System Performance Index (SPI) Scores
The SPI provides a comprehensive evaluation of system performance, integrating factors such as efficiency and product losses. The SPI scores are categorized into levels from A to G, with A representing the highest performance level.
- 5kW Power Range: The Fronius and BYD combination, coded as D1, achieved an SPI rating of A, indicating top-tier performance.
- 10kW Power Range: The RCT DC 10.0, coded as G2, also received an SPI rating of A, highlighting its exceptional performance in the high-power category.
Market Trends and Insights
Growth in HOME-ESS Installations
From 2019 to 2021, the installed capacity of HOME-ESS batteries in Germany grew significantly, with nearly 40,000 units added annually. By the end of 2021, the total installed capacity reached 129,000 units. The prevalent PV power range is between 9 kW to 10 kW, while available battery capacities are commonly found in the ranges of 5-6 kWh, 7-8 kWh, and 10-11 kWh.
BYD’s Market Position
BYD continues to strengthen its position in the HOME-ESS market with an expanded lithium battery production capacity of 250GWh and a doubled production line for Battery-Box. The company’s robust production capabilities and strategic approach are expected to reinforce its leadership in the market throughout 2023.
Conclusion
The evaluation report by the Berlin University of Applied Sciences provides valuable insights into the performance and efficiency of HOME-ESS products in the German market. Leading products from Fronius, BYD, and RCT have demonstrated impressive performance metrics, making them notable choices for consumers and businesses. As the market evolves, ongoing advancements and increased production capacities will likely continue to shape the landscape of energy storage systems.
