Smart controller manages micro-generation output

Published: June 2010

Coolpower’s EMMA energy and micro-generator manager manages the output of grid-connected micro-generators such as solar PV, micro wind and hydro turbines to manage and match energy supply in homes and commercial buildings. According to Coolpower, half of the output from a micro-generator is exported to the grid because of the lack of a smart controller such as EMMA. The benefit is described as a quadrupling of the value of energy that would otherwise be exported — typically 50%.

The device has been tested in over 50 installations and is now commercially available. It controls what is generated and used in the building — second by second. Excess energy can be diverted to energy-storage devices such as hot-water tanks, electric underfloor heating and storage heaters for later use.

A G83-compliant product will be available soon to limit export to the grid to 12 A, facilitating micro-generation in rural areas with network constraints.

Units are available for micro-generators with outputs of up to 30 kW.

For more information on this story, click here: June 10, 166