This comprehensive review explores the GivEnergy hybrid inverter and battery system, a compelling solution for homeowners seeking efficient solar energy storage. We delve into the system's core components, including inverter sizes (3.6kW and 5kW), battery capacity options (2.6kWh, 5.12kWh, and 9.5kWh), and the advantages of its modular design. We'll examine its intelligent energy management features, including smart tariff integration and emergency power capabilities, as well as the impressive 12-year warranty covering both inverter and batteries.This review assesses the GivEnergy system's suitability for various household energy consumption levels, providing cost estimates for different configurations. We will also analyze its performance across key metrics – technology, performance, warranty, affordability, and overall user experience – ultimately determining its position within the competitive home battery storage market. Find out if GivEnergy offers the perfect balance of performance, flexibility, and value for your home energy needs.
Pros And Cons
- Can handle up to 15 kW of solar panels (7.5 kW per string)
- Can be oversized by about 25% without significant peak clipping
- Modular battery system allows for mix and match of battery sizes (up to four batteries) and generations (Gen 1, 2, and 3) within the low voltage range.
- Works as a string inverter without a battery.
- Can be combined with battery storage later
- Intelligent and can manage power to avoid overloading incoming supply
- Open API for integration with third-party software and intelligent tariffs (e.g., Octopus Energy)
- 12-year warranty on the inverter and batteries
- Not suitable for whole-home backup (unless configured with EPS)
- Maximum conversion of DC energy is limited to 3.6 kW
- Performance may not be top-tier compared to higher voltage models
- Suitable for larger solar panel arrays (10-18 panels)
- Modular battery system allows for mix and match of battery sizes (up to four batteries) and generations (Gen 1, 2, and 3) within the low voltage range.
- Works as a string inverter without a battery
- Can be combined with battery storage later
- Intelligent and can manage power to avoid overloading incoming supply
- Open API for integration with third-party software and intelligent tariffs (e.g., Octopus Energy)
- 12-year warranty on the inverter and batteries
- Not suitable for whole-home backup (unless configured with EPS)
- Modular, can be combined with other Give Energy batteries
- 100% depth of discharge
- 12-year warranty
- Modular, can be combined with other Give Energy batteries
- 100% depth of discharge
- 12-year warranty
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Understanding the GivEnergy Hybrid Inverter
The GivEnergy hybrid inverter is the central component of a solar and battery storage system. It acts as the 'brains' of the operation, converting the DC current generated by solar panels on your roof into AC current suitable for household use.
This crucial process allows you to utilize solar energy directly for powering appliances and also stores excess energy in a battery for later use when solar production is low.
The inverter manages the flow of energy, directing it to your home's electrical system, battery storage, or back to the grid (for potential feed-in tariff payments).
Inverter Size and Solar Panel Compatibility
GivEnergy offers two low-voltage inverter sizes: 3.6 kW and 5 kW. The size you need depends on the number and wattage of your solar panels.
A larger inverter can handle more solar panel output, reducing the risk of ‘peak clipping’ (where excess energy is wasted during periods of high solar generation).
It's generally recommended to slightly oversize your inverter (by about 25%) to accommodate future expansion or variations in solar production.
Battery Storage Options and Sizing
GivEnergy's low-voltage battery range comes in three sizes: 2.6 kWh, 5.12 kWh, and 9.5 kWh. The best size for you will depend on your household's average daily energy consumption.
To determine the appropriate battery size, review your annual energy bill to calculate your daily average energy usage (excluding EV charging).
Remember, GivEnergy batteries offer a unique mix-and-match feature, allowing you to add more capacity later as your needs change.
GivEnergy's Advantages: Warranty and Flexibility
GivEnergy stands out with its comprehensive 12-year warranty covering both the inverter and batteries, including unlimited cycles for typical usage.
The modular battery system allows for flexible expansion; you can start small and add more battery capacity later as your budget allows.
Furthermore, you can install the inverter as a ‘string inverter’ (without a battery initially) and add battery storage later, offering budget-conscious flexibility.
Performance, Features and Considerations
The GivEnergy system offers intelligent energy management, directing energy to your home's loads, battery storage, or the grid, optimizing self-consumption.
The system can integrate with smart tariffs from providers like Octopus Energy, automatically optimizing energy buying and selling based on grid prices.
It also features an open API for integration with other third-party software solutions for even more advanced energy monitoring and control. The system also includes emergency power supply capabilities.
Use Cases and Cost Estimates
For a retired couple with lower energy consumption (around 3,500 kWh/year), a system with 8-10 panels, a 5.12 kWh battery, and a 5kW inverter might suffice. Estimated cost: Around £9,000.
For a family of four with higher consumption (around 5,000 kWh/year, excluding EV charging), a system with 10-12 panels, a 9.5 kWh battery, and a 5kW inverter would be more appropriate. Estimated cost: Around £11,000.
Higher consumption may warrant consideration of GivEnergy’s high-voltage systems.
Overall Review and Conclusion
The GivEnergy hybrid inverter and battery range scores well across several key areas: Technology (8/10), Performance (8/10), Warranty (10/10), Affordability (10/10), and Coolness (8/10).
The system's modularity, intelligent features, and comprehensive warranty make it a strong contender in the home battery storage market.
While not the top performer in terms of pure power output, its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of integration with smart tariffs make it an excellent option for many homeowners.