Growatt launches all-in-one energy storage system for residential solar market

Chinese manufacturer Growatt has introduced its MINA all-in-one energy storage system to the Australian residential market, integrating hybrid inverter technology with modular battery storage. The system offers scalable capacities ranging from 5 kWh to 30 kWh, specifically designed to meet the growing demand for energy independence and solar self-consumption in single-phase households. This launch is significant for the energy storage sector as it addresses the need for flexible, installer-friendly solutions that can adapt to changing consumer energy requirements over time.

The MINA system features an inverter output range of 3 kW to 10 kW and utilizes 5 kWh battery modules that can be stacked to reach a maximum usable capacity of 30 kWh. To accommodate modern high-current PV modules, the system includes three maximum power point trackers (MPPTs) with a maximum input current of 18 A per tracker and a DC-to-AC ratio of 2.0. A key technical highlight is Growatt’s battery optimizer technology, which manages each module independently to mitigate issues related to differing states of charge or battery aging, allowing homeowners to expand their storage capacity seamlessly as their energy needs evolve.

For reliability during grid outages, the system provides a 63 A backup connection with a switchover time of less than 10 milliseconds and a 150% peak output power capability to support essential appliances. Growatt has prioritized installation efficiency, claiming the hardware can be stacked in approximately 10 minutes using plug-and-play connections and integrated handles. The IP66-rated housing supports both floor and wall mounting, featuring natural cooling, Type II surge protection, and arc-fault protection to ensure safety and durability in various environments.

Growatt Vice President Lisa Zhang highlighted the system's role in providing a future-ready solution for the Australian market, where residential battery adoption has seen significant growth. The MINA system is virtual power plant (VPP) ready and includes a 25 kW bidirectional DC charging function intended for future vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications, though this feature is not yet commercially available. By enabling homeowners to store excess solar energy for use during peak price periods, the system aims to maximize the value of rooftop solar investments while reducing grid reliance.