SimpliPhi Energy is a battery producer with a protracted historical past of efficiently offering power storage options to the off-grid and DIY communities. The corporate is now partnering with Briggs & Stratton to supply a house Power Storage System (ESS) that mixes a hybrid photo voltaic inverter and batteries for grid-tied and off-grid functions. The SimpliPhi ESS is scalable and could be custom-made in dimension to serve something from small properties to very large industrial buildings.
SimpliPhi’s merchandise are designed to offer each day biking for photo voltaic self-consumption in addition to backup energy for emergencies. The ESS can function in off-grid and grid-tied settings and presents glorious efficiency, secure and non-toxic supplies, and a 10-year guarantee to guard your funding.
SimpliPhi’s batteries are DIY-friendly, with software engineers prepared to offer service to anybody who wants it, however many full-service installers additionally carry them. All of the batteries described under can be found from distributors at retail or wholesale costs.
In case you’re on the lookout for a house power storage resolution, SimpliPhi ought to be in your shortlist. Listed below are the small print:
Key takeaways
- SimpliPhi is a battery firm with a protracted historical past of innovation and a dedication to high quality that was acquired by Briggs & Stratton in 2021.
- The corporate presents many power storage options, from transportable emergency energy kits to high-voltage industrial and industrial storage methods.
- Probably the most fascinating SimpliPhi product for householders is the brand new Power Storage System (ESS), a modular battery storage system that may present backup energy and cycle each day from any supply of electrical energy, together with photo voltaic panels, turbines, or the grid.
- The SimpliPhi ESS competes with photo voltaic batteries from well-known producers like Generac, LG, and Tesla and rises above the {industry} commonplace for longevity and reliability, however at a considerably increased price.
Firm historical past
The corporate that may grow to be SimpliPhi acquired its begin in 2001 when founder Stuart Lennox determined to repurpose lithium-ion battery packs utilized in early e-bikes to make cell battery packs for the movie and tv {industry}. These early merchandise turned the {industry} commonplace for transportable battery packs, and the corporate regarded for tactics to increase, utilizing lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) batteries to create new merchandise for the house and industrial markets.
By 2021, SimpliPhi had a product line of LFP batteries identified for his or her longevity and efficiency. The model was acquired in September of that 12 months by generator firm Briggs & Stratton, which itself was lately acquired and re-invigorated by non-public fairness agency KPS Capital Companions.
Briggs CEO Steve Andrews noticed SimpliPhi as an ideal match for his firm’s new give attention to being “energy software specialists.” Andrews says Briggs not depends solely on the inner combustion engines utilized in its turbines however as an alternative gives options for energy in all settings; nonetheless it is smart.
Rather less than a 12 months later, the corporate announced SimpliPhi ESS, which is now accessible for buy throughout america from each shops and associate installers.
SimpliPhi ESS
A picture exhibiting how the ESS could be scaled in capability and energy output. Picture courtesy of SimpliPhi.
The SimpliPhi Power Storage System (ESS) is a brand new customizable battery storage resolution. Like many power storage methods available on the market at this time, SimpliPhi ESS is a modular resolution, that means it has core parts (batteries, inverters, and management methods) that may be put collectively in a number of completely different configurations, from small-scale home battery backup to energy storage systems for very large buildings.
When all the components are used together, the SimpliPhi ESS provides a smart, connected, and convenient solution for homeowners to monitor and manage their solar and battery storage systems.
Here’s our interview with SimpliPhi President Catherine Von Burg at the 2022 RE+ Conference in Anaheim, California:
Cost
As described above, the SimpliPhi ESS can scale up from a very small home system to a very large commercial solution, so it’s not possible to assign a single price. We can say that the average homeowner would likely be happy with a 14.7 kWh system consisting of one inverter and three battery modules, which would cost around $17,000 before installation.
Here is a look at prices for some of the most common ESS capacities:
| Storage capacity | Components | Best for | Retail cost |
| 4.9 kWh | 1 inverter, 1 battery | Small home backup / critical loads only | $9,000 |
| 14.7 kWh | 1 inverter 3 batteries | Average home backup / daily cycling | $17,000 |
| 29.4 kWh | 2 inverters, 6 batteries | Very large home backup | $30,500 |
We listed retail prices in the table above, but the SimpliPhi ESS is also sold by qualified installers who can take advantage of bulk buying through distributors. The relative cost can also be reduced if you plan to add the SimpliPhi ESS to a new solar panel installation because the SimpliPhi inverter can take the place of a different solar inverter.
Look below for how these costs compare to SimpliPhi’s competitors in the energy storage market.
Components
There are three main components of an ESS ecosystem: a 4.9 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery module, a 6 kilowatt (kW) hybrid inverter, and the EnergyTrak control system. Together, these components accept input from solar panels, the grid, and backup generators; store energy in the batteries for later use, and customize how that energy is used.
SimpliPhi 4.9 kWh battery
The SimpliPhi ESS battery module comes in one size that can hold up to 4.9 kWh of electricity. Up to four batteries can be wired in parallel and connected to a single SimpliPhi ESS inverter, and up to nine inverters can be wired together. A maximum of 72 batteries can be wired together in this way, holding 352.8 kWh of electricity.
These 48-volt batteries are made with high-quality lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) cells that SimpliPhi claims can withstand up to 10,000 charge/discharge cycles. That is a very long cycle life—an average of around 2.7 cycles per day for the 10-year warranty period.
| Battery specifications | |
| Rated kWh DC Capacity | 4.9 kWh DC* |
| Max. Surge Discharge Rate (10 minutes) | 100 amps DC (5.1 kW DC) |
| Max. Continuous Charge/Discharge Rate | 48.5 amps DC (2.48 kW DC) |
| Depth of Discharge (DoD) | up to 100% |
| Cycle life | 10,000+ cycles (@ 80% DOD) |
| Charging temperature | 32° to 120° F (0° to 49° C) |
| Mounting | Wall-mount only |
| Dimensions | 23 x 28.5 x 8.5 in (30 in H w/terminals) |
| Weight | 160 lb (73 kg) |
*Maximum capacity is 4.9 kWh, but SimpliPhi recommends 80% DoD, which is 3.9 kWh.
As shown in the table above, SimpliPhi estimates the 10,000 cycle lifespan at 80% depth of discharge, meaning each charge/discharge cycle would only be 3.9 kWh of electricity, leaving 1 kWh in the battery to prevent degradation.
It’s important to note that SimpliPhi makes no claim of cycle life or total battery throughput (measured in megawatt-hours) in its ESS Warranty. As an alternative, the guarantee covers “manufacturing defect(s) in supplies and workmanship” for 10 years. That’s a little bit of a crimson flag as a result of it doesn’t explicitly shield the system proprietor if the capability of the batteries decreases extra quickly than anticipated. We like warranties to be specific about how they shield the system proprietor.
To be clear, SimpliPhi merchandise have confirmed to be sturdy and long-lasting within the discipline for a few years—we’re merely mentioning the place the corporate’s guarantee doesn’t measure as much as {industry} requirements. Manufacturers like Generac and Tesla present throughput warranties for his or her batteries that assure they are going to retain a sure capability because the batteries are used over a lot of cycles.
SimpliPhi 6 kW inverter
The SimpliPhi 6 kW inverter is a reasonably commonplace hybrid inverter that may settle for as much as 7.5 kW of photo voltaic enter and cost batteries at as much as 100 amps and 62 volts (6.2 kW). The inverter could be paired with any battery with a battery administration system (BMS) that makes use of the CANBUS communications protocol, however SimpliPhi says it’s particularly designed to work with the 4.9 kWh ESS batteries, in addition to the corporate’s PHI 3.8 and AmpliPhi 3.8 batteries.
Like another inverter, the SimpliPhi unit can work with out batteries in a grid-connected setup. When paired with batteries, the inverter has a number of storage modes that permit its proprietor to specify how the power saved within the battery can be used.
SimpliPhi ESS storage modes:
- Uninterruptible energy provide (UPS) with 8 ms swap over time
- Photo voltaic self-consumption (i.e. each day biking)
- Time-of-use (TOU), which reserves saved power for when grid energy is most costly
- Off-grid backup
In an influence outage, the inverter can output 6 kW repeatedly and surge as much as 9 kW for five seconds (and even 12 kW for 100 milliseconds) to start out motors in home equipment like air conditioners and properly pumps. If extra energy is required, including extra inverters will increase the potential output of the system by these numbers.
One other essential characteristic of the SimpliPhi inverter is computerized generator begin. If the inverter detects batteries dropping under a specified set-point when the grid is down, it could actually routinely begin any backup generator that has a 2-wire begin in an effort to cost the batteries.
When the batteries have charged to a specified stage, the inverter shuts the generator off till it’s wanted. With this performance, it’s potential to run the SimpliPhi ESS in off-grid mode utilizing photo voltaic panels and a backup generator indefinitely.
EnergyTrak management system
The SimpliPhi inverter and batteries work collectively to make use of and retailer electrical energy, however EnergyTrak is the brains that make the SimpliPhi ESS work. EnergyTrak is a {hardware} and software program resolution that skilled installers use to fee, monitor, and preserve their prospects’ ESS installations. Owners use the EnergyTrak app to handle and management their methods remotely.
EnergyTrak reveals how energy is being generated, used and saved throughout the dwelling. Picture supply: Briggs & Stratton
The EnergyTrak cell app (accessible on Google Play and Apple’s App Store) lets householders see photo voltaic era, battery storage stage, and energy consumption in actual time. It additionally lets customers swap between the completely different storage modes listed above. This could be a very helpful characteristic: within the case of a coming storm, you would possibly wish to swap from TOU or self-consumption mode to UPS mode to take care of further battery capability in case of an influence outage.
How the SimpliPhi ESS compares to different dwelling batteries
SimpliPhi ESS and a few of its main rivals from Generac, LG, and Tesla.
Once we evaluate batteries to one another, we have a look at just a few elements:
- Performance
- High quality and longevity
- Guarantee safety
- Value
On this case, we’ll be judging the SimpliPhi ESS towards the highest batteries within the {industry}, from Generac, LG, and Tesla.
Performance
In relation to performance, the SimpliPhi ESS meets or exceeds {industry} requirements. It presents glorious effectivity, retrofit and new set up capabilities, management over battery discharge modes, and generator auto begin.
The one space the place SimpliPhi at present lacks is participation in battery incentive applications like demand response and digital energy crops. Fortunately this downside could be solved with software program updates, and SimpliPhi is engaged on inking offers to get their batteries added to applications across the nation.
High quality and longevity
In relation to high quality, few individuals within the photo voltaic {industry} would argue that there’s a higher-quality LFP battery than SimpliPhi’s. The corporate’s merchandise are confirmed performers across the globe, together with being utilized by the Division of Protection in help of U.S. troops in Afghanistan.
As well as, LFP battery expertise is already considerably preferable to lithium NMC batteries utilized in Generac, LG, and Tesla batteries. NMC batteries use poisonous metals mined in conflict-ridden areas and infrequently want exterior cooling methods to decrease their danger of thermal runaway (which might trigger a fireplace). LFP batteries endure from none of these issues.
Guarantee safety
That is the place we really feel SimpliPhi and Briggs & Stratton may do essentially the most to enhance and push the ESS to the highest of the {industry}. The 10-year warranty for the company’s other batteries has clear language in regards to the batteries’ power retention at 10 years after the acquisition date.
Why, then, does the 10-year warranty for the SimpliPhi ESS not supply the identical assurances? It’s truthfully type of mind-boggling. That stated, we have now no purpose to doubt the batteries gained’t carry out precisely in addition to the corporate’s different choices. We identical to issues in writing.
Most battery different firms supply “throughput” warranties that promise their batteries will retain a sure proportion of their capability till they’ve been charged and discharged a sure variety of kWh. We’d welcome an replace to the SimpliPhi guarantee that guarantees a minimum of this a lot.
Value comparability
Given their status for performance, high quality, and longevity, you would possibly count on the SimpliPhi ESS to be dearer than the competitors. You’d be right in that assumption. Right here’s a fast have a look at retail costs for these batteries (prices under don’t embrace set up, apart from the Tesla Powerwall):
| Battery | Capability | Value |
| SimpliPhi ESS | 14.7 kWh | $17,000 |
| Generac PWRcell M5 | 15 kWh | $16,500 |
| LG Chem RESU 16H Prime | 16 kWh | $9,500* |
| Tesla Powerwall | 13.5 kWh | $11,500** |
* The LG Chem RESU battery doesn’t embrace an inverter, which might add $1,500 to $3,500 to the price.
In fact, you might not pay retail value in your SimpliPhi ESS. In case you discover an installer that may get it wholesale, they are going to supply a complete put in value that features all of the work to attach and fee the system and maintain it operating for a few years to return.
Different SimpliPhi batteries
Different SimpliPhi batteries (L-R: PHI 1.4, PHI 3.8-M, AccESS Sol-Ark). Picture courtesy of SimpliPhi.
Along with its new ESS lineup, SimpliPhi presents many different merchandise that use the identical LFP battery expertise. The PHI and AmpliPhi strains of batteries supply options in 12-, 24-, and 48-volt flavors. Its fully-integrated methods mix these batteries with Sol-Ark or Schneider inverters in customized enclosures, with a number of capability sizes accessible.
PHI and AmpliPHI batteries
The PHI and AmpliPHI product strains are standalone batteries made to work with among the main inverters and cost controllers available on the market. Just like the ESS, these batteries include 10-year warranties and the identical 10,000 cycle-life claims (once more at 80% DOD).
SimpliPhi says all its PHI batteries are “appropriate with all industry-standard cost controllers,” whereas the AmpliPHI line is appropriate solely with Sol-Ark, SMA, and Schneider inverters. The corporate gives Integration guides for a lot of manufacturers on its product documentation page.
Listed below are some particulars about every of the 4 present batteries provided in these product strains:
| PHI 730 | PHI 1.4 | PHI 3.8-M | AmpliPHI 3.8 | |
| Capability | 730 Wh | 1.4 kWh | 3.8 kWh | 3.8 kWh |
| DC Voltage | 12 or 24 | 12 or 24 | 24 or 48 | 48 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11.25 x 5.25 x 6.25 in | 11.25 x 9.25 x 7.25 in | 13.5 x 14 x 8 in | 13.5 x 14 x 8 in |
| Weight (lbs) | 17.14 | 33 | 86 | 86 |
| Notes | Drop-in alternative for lead acid | Max output 0.69 or 0.73 kW DC based mostly on battery voltage | Max output 1.9 or 1.92 kW DC based mostly on battery voltage | Superior BMS to stop overcurrent occasions |
Built-in methods
If constructing a system utilizing standalone batteries, inverters, and residential storage system doesn’t sound like enjoyable to you, you can even buy one among SimpliPhi’s Built-in Programs, which come pre-programmed and embrace an inverter (both Sol-Ark or Schneider) and both PHI or AmpliPHI batteries in a customized enclosure.
An built-in system from SimpliPhi is sort of like a “simply add photo voltaic” resolution, and the ExprESS PHI system is even on wheels and could be moved from place to position as a transportable energy resolution.
SimpliPhi presents 4 present built-in methods. Right here’s just a little about every of them:
| AccESS PHI Sol-Ark | AccESS PHI Scneider | AccESS AmpliPHI Sol-Ark | ExprESS PHI | |
| Capacities provided | 15.2, 19, or 22.8 kWh | 15.2 kWh | 19 kWh | 7.6 kWh |
| Constructed-in inverter | Sol-Ark 12K | Schneider Conext XW Professional | Sol-Ark 12K | Magnum Power |
| Steady output energy | 12 kW mixed, 9 kW in off-grid mode | 6.8 kW | 12 kW mixed, 9 kW in off-grid mode | 4.4 kW |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 29.5 x 76 x 20 in | 29.5 x 76 x 20 in | 29.5 x 76 x 20 in | 41 x 36 x 17 in |
| Weight (lbs) | 944, 1,030, or 1,116, relying on capability | 944 | 1,030 | 411.5 |
| Mounting | Free-standing or Pad-mounted | Free-standing or Pad-mounted | Free-standing or Pad-mounted | On casters |
The place to purchase
SimpliPhi sells its merchandise by way of wholesale and retail distributors on 5 continents. Within the USA, it’s simple for finish customers to purchase SimpliPhi batteries for the retail costs listed above, however professionals who’ve accounts at wholesale distributors will supply completely different costs based mostly on their prices and added fees for set up and commissioning.
Listed below are among the finest locations to get SimpliPhi batteries:
Discover an installer
In case you don’t have a ton of expertise coping with voltages that may kill you, your finest guess is to discover a licensed skilled installer who carries SimpliPhi merchandise. You are able to do that through our web site through the use of the photo voltaic calculator to get photo voltaic quotes from installers in your space.
You’ll profit from having the job completed by an expert and letting them be chargeable for ensuring your battery financial institution is working correctly on day 1 and day 3,650. Select a great installer by getting a number of quotes and asking the right questions.
AltE Store
If you’re an experienced DIYer or can learn highly technical information and do the labor yourself, installing a SimpliPhi battery system can be a good choice. One of the best places to do that is the AltE store, which has bought photo voltaic provides on to customers since earlier than the calendar switched centuries. AltE has tons of academic content material and useful technical salespeople that will help you in your journey.
Backside line: is a SimpliPhi battery best for you?
In relation to long-lasting, high-quality batteries, SimpliPhi is tough to beat. They’ve a well-earned status for longevity and reliability, however we want they’d again that up just a little extra explicitly of their guarantee language. Nonetheless, 10 years of safety towards defects of product and workmanship is an effective begin.
SimpliPhi batteries will price just a little greater than different choices available on the market, however their performance is true up there with the most effective, and their whole lifespan ought to make the additional price price it. Moreover, the ESS ought to quickly be capable to be a part of battery incentive applications like demand response and digital energy crops in case you’re fortunate sufficient to reside in one of many areas providing them.
In case you’re the type of one who desires the most effective of every thing with value as no object, we suggest SimpliPhi batteries.
