SolarEdge EV Charging Inverter - Solar Excess Charging Mode

[rickhuizinga]

Has anyone had success charging the Model 3 with the 'excess solar' charging mode?

This inverter charger charges using the J1772 adapter, and has a unique mode where it can charge only using unused/excess power from your solar array.

Recent threads (Two J1772 charging issues: EVSE schedule and sharing.) have indicated that the Model 3 isn't fully responding to charging capability changes that are advertised by a J1772 EVSE. The most concerning reported issue is that the Model 3 will not begin charging at a faster rate when the EVSE advertises that more power becomes available.

I'm concerned that once the Model 3 starts charging in the morning at a slow rate, it won't begin to charge faster as the sun continues to rise.

 

[Akikiki]

I have that same inverter. But sorry to say, I've not tried it. I think I will - soon. Soon but not soon enough to suit you, I am sure, so don't depend on me for help with the answer.

 

[rickhuizinga]

FYI, the 'excess solar' charging mode requires that your installer installed the energy monitoring current transformers on the line to your meter. It works by measuring the amount of export, and it adjusts the available amount of power advertised on the J1772 so that the amount of grid export would be zero.

P.S. Because you're in Hawaii, and if you have a CSS system, it won't work because they are supposed to have zero grid export so it will never measure excess power. You'll need to be on a NEM, CGS, CGS+ or Smart Export program.

 

[Akikiki]

I am on NEM - since 2009

 

[rickhuizinga]

Lucky you! I wish it was available. I'll be going CGS+ as most of the production can be stored in the vehicle battery during the day.