This comprehensive review details a Savx solar system installation in Bangladesh, offering a firsthand account of its performance and cost-effectiveness. The system, the first of its kind in the country, utilizes Savex and Sevex branded components, including a 1500-watt MPPT inverter, a 100Ah lithium-ion battery, and ten 150-watt solar panels. The author meticulously documents the system's setup, performance under various load tests, and the associated costs, providing valuable insights for potential buyers considering a similar solar solution.The review covers key aspects including component specifications, warranty details, installation process via IPS Bazar, and a comparison of lithium-ion batteries versus traditional acid batteries. It also explores the advantages and disadvantages of different system types (on-grid, off-grid, hybrid) and emphasizes the importance of considering factors like inverter noise and additional installation costs. This practical guide ultimately aims to assist readers in making informed decisions about their own solar energy investments.
Pros And Cons
- MPPT technology generates 15-30% more electricity than PWM inverters
- Energy efficient
- Can be equipped with solar panels up to 2000 watts
- Increased battery charging speed (30-80 amperes)
- Compatible with acid and lithium batteries
- Pure Sine Wave output for sensitive electronics
- Optional WiFi module for remote monitoring
- Large display with touch control buttons
- Cooling fan noise can be disruptive at higher loads
- Long life cycle (3.5-4000 cycles)
- Requires no acid maintenance
- Display shows charge percentage, voltage, and amperage
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System Components and Specifications
My solar setup utilizes a 1500-watt, 12-volt Savex brand MPPT solar inverter, designed for single-battery operation. Powering the system is a 12-volt, 100Ah Sevex lithium-ion battery. The solar panel array consists of ten 150-watt Sevex mono panels, totaling 1500 watts of peak capacity.
At peak sun (around 10 am in this instance), the system achieves its full 1500-watt output. Larger panels could be used to maintain the 1500-watt system output with fewer panels, reducing overall costs.
IPS Bazar, a provider of power solutions, including solar IPS, handled the installation and provided technical support. Their nationwide technician network ensures convenient installation and after-sales service.
Addressing Common Solar Setup Questions
Before embarking on a solar setup, several crucial questions need answers: battery backup duration at night, solar panel wattage, the optimal setup type (on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid), and the required installation location (indoor or outdoor).
Inverter noise is a consideration, particularly in indoor installations, as cooling fans can generate varying levels of noise depending on the load. Inadequate cooling can lead to noise issues.
This setup utilizes a hybrid approach, combining grid power and solar energy to meet power needs.
Cost Breakdown and Warranty Information
The cost of the system components includes: 10 x 150-watt Sevex solar panels at 5,250 taka each (52,500 taka total), a 1500-watt Savex solar inverter for approximately 32,000 taka, and a Sevex 100Ah 12-volt lithium-ion battery at roughly 39,500 taka.
Warranty information: Panels have a 25-year, 70% linear output warranty (excluding physical damage); the inverter comes with a two-year parts and five-year service warranty; and the battery boasts a three-year cell warranty and a 4000+ life cycle.
Total cost for the core components (panels, inverter, battery) was approximately 124,000 taka. Additional costs for installation, cabling, structure, and a DB box should also be factored in.
System Performance and Load Testing
My office's power demand is approximately 3000 watts. The 1500-watt hybrid system provides 1500 watts of backup power (day or night), supplemented by 1500 watts from the grid. High-power appliances (AC) run off the grid; other devices (computers, lights) utilize solar power.
Load testing was conducted in three phases: battery-only, solar and battery combined, and grid, solar, and battery combined. The system handled 1.23kW load from the battery alone, shutting down around 1.9kW due to overload.
During solar and battery operation, it could manage around 1.13kW before overloading. Using all three power sources yielded stable output at high loads, demonstrating the effectiveness of the hybrid configuration.
Lithium-ion vs. Acid Batteries: A Comparative Analysis
Lithium-ion batteries offer a significant advantage over acid batteries due to their substantially longer life cycle (3500-4000 cycles vs. 500-600 for acid batteries). This translates to a much longer operational lifespan, potentially exceeding 10 years with 80% capacity retention.
Maintenance is another crucial difference: lithium-ion batteries require no acid addition, eliminating the environmental hazards and health risks associated with acid-based batteries. The Savex lithium-ion battery features a display showing charge percentage, voltage, and amperage, enhancing user convenience.
The long life cycle, ease of maintenance, and display capabilities significantly enhance the user experience and overall value proposition of lithium-ion batteries.
Inverter Technology and Features
The Savex MPPT inverter employs MPPT technology, boosting electricity generation by 15-30% compared to PWM inverters, resulting in improved energy efficiency. It supports up to 2000 watts of solar panel input, and boasts a fast battery charging speed (30-80 amps).
It provides Pure Sine Wave output, suitable for sensitive electronics. An optional WiFi module enables remote monitoring via smartphone. The inverter features a user-friendly large display with touch controls.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Overall, the Savex solar system provides reliable power and significantly reduces electricity consumption. However, the inverter's noise level is a minor drawback, especially under high load. Consider its placement to minimize noise impact.
Choosing between off-grid and hybrid systems depends on budget and power needs. Off-grid provides complete independence but requires a larger upfront investment. Hybrid systems offer a balance between cost and grid backup, suitable for most households.
The long lifespan and maintenance-free nature of lithium-ion batteries make them a worthwhile investment for long-term sustainability. Remember to budget for additional costs like structure, cabling, and a DB box for optimal protection and safety.