Review: Sigenergy’s ‘SigenStor’ is a game-changer for Australia

Sigenergy SIGENSTOR render with with five in one key features listed: Solar Inverter, EV DC Charger, Battery PCS, Battery Pack, EMS

Now and again, a product comes to Australia, captivating the attention of solar energy enthusiasts. With world-renowned leading brands that already exist who are consistently innovating to stay ahead, something must be unique for something new to stand out and earn market share. In 2024, Sigenergy’s SigenStor will disrupt established brands in energy self-sufficiency with one of the most innovative all-in-one solutions, empowering users towards superior energy independence. Here’s why.

Contents

Key points

Built on a software-first foundation, Sigenergy is a manufacturer set to outpace most in the new generation of self-sufficient energy supplies. Developing new energy hardware this decade from the ground up enables innovators to think outside the box regarding a preconceived evolutionary process. With modern user experience now in the palm of one’s hand, what if an energy product for the mainstream was developed from a software-first perspective? Such a design would remove specific hardware limitations, ensuring it adapts perfectly to modern user experiences and expectations as they evolve. 

Even though existing energy technologies possess excellent monitoring and control software, limitations restrict the release of software/firmware updates required in a consistently evolving landscape. Most manufacturers have one universal web application for their products, old and new. New updates must consider all hardware models, ensuring a stable user experience. The more expansive a product range, the more diligent a software/firmware release must be, and this takes time.

Which to consider?

Even though installation professionals will have to adapt to a new way, the beauty of Sigenergy’s product offering is in its simplicity, and your only consideration of which foundations to consider initially depends on your power supply: single or three-phase. Rumour surrounds a potential inverter-only solution (as in other markets) to remove specific market barriers around a basic package’s initial cost. Therefore, the foundation of the Sigenergy energy product range is the controller/inverter, and the broader energy ecosystem products follow that. Greater consideration begins within the broader expansion options/ecosystem.

How to identify if you have a single or three-phase power supply ›

Model
Power
Inverter
DC Battery compatibility
Download
Sigenergy Sigen Hybrid Inverter
SP (single-phase)
5, 6, 8, 10 kW
Solar & DC Battery
SigenStor 5 or 8 kWh multiples
Datasheet
Sigenergy Sigen Hybrid Inverter
TP (three-phase)
5 to 29.9 kW
Solar & DC battery
SigenStor: 5 or 8 kWh multiples
Datasheet

1-phase controller: Single-phase solar, battery and EV charging controller/inverter. Intelligent all-in-one technology for the modern energy user. DC solar and DC battery (hybrid) to AC grid-tie or off-grid inverter, compatible with the DC-coupled SigenStor battery and DC-coupled Sigenergy EV charger module.

3-phase controller: Three-phase solar, battery and EV charging controller/inverter. Intelligent all-in-one technology for the modern energy user. DC solar and DC battery (hybrid) to AC grid-tie or off-grid inverter, compatible with the DC-coupled SigenStor battery and DC-coupled Sigenergy EV charger module.

Remarkably, all size models (3 to 29.9 kW) of Sigenergy controllers/inverters are identical in dimensions. 

Savings alert. Get your copy of the latest catalogue for hassle-free, competitive prices.

The Sigenergy expanded ecosystem

From 2024, home and commercial self-generated power supplies will form part of a user-empowered energy ecosystem. The more efficiently you control and harness internally generated electron flow, the more you save purchasing from the grid. Today, the choice is a disconnected analogue-style solar energy system or an all-encompassing, digitally connected energy ecosystem. Sigenergy changes this.

Two mobile phones displaying the Sigenergy App interface

The mySigen App is where the Sigenergy energy ecosystem comes together for communicative harmony. Purchase add-on hardware such as DC Bidirectional EV charging and versatile 5 and 8 kWh storage modules. Considering such versatility, it’s rare that two SigenStor neighbours are ever the same. You use your power differently from your neighbour and deserve a custom solution. Previously, more bespoke solutions were expensive to achieve, adding significant cost barriers for the mainstream. SigenStor is a testament to commercially viable custom design with the ideal modular add-on features to suit the end-user (you).

Model
Attribute
Advantages
Download
Sigenergy Sigenstor Gateway
Gateway
Energy monitoring & signalling. Backup power and load control
View energy import and export from the point of supply within mySIgen App. Provides surplus energy signalling/control to ecosystem devices. Manage power distribution under normal operation and during blackout scenario’s
Datasheet
Battery
DC coupled energy storage (HV). 5 or 8 kWh modular options.
Store excess solar energy for later use. Provide blackout protection when installing additional circuitry and Gateway.
Datasheet
EV Charger: DC
Electric vehicle charging. 12.5 kW or 25 kW.
Ultra-efficient charging with V2X options. Intelligently charge your electric vehicle with excess solar energy without exporting to the grid (EnergycMeter required).
Datasheet
EV Charger: AC
Electric vehicle charging. 7/11/22 kW
Intelligently charge your electric vehicle with excess solar energy without exporting to the grid (Energy Meter required).
Datasheet
my Sigen App
Real-time & historical energy portal
Online visual gateway to advanced energy insight, management and control with AI assistance.
Datasheet

Energy Meter: The Sigenergy energy meter is mounted within a switchboard to provide energy consumption and export data to the mySigen App when used alongside a SigenStor product where a Gateway is not required. 

SigenStor Battery: Enjoy enhanced solar array sizing flexibility through safe, low-voltage DC-coupled solar battery technology while providing superior value on a cost-per-kWh basis compared to similar DC-coupled batteries. We recommend all customers discern battery prices on a cost per kWh level to understand the true cost.

Total cost ÷ combined useable kWh = True cost per kWh. Spoiler: Using this knowledge, SigenStor is remarkably priced to its relative competition.

DC Charger: One of the most significant features seen yet in an energy solution. Not only does the Sigenergy DC EV charger maximise self-generated energy utilisation by reducing conversion losses, but it also can provide bidirectional charging capabilities should the DNSP (Distributed Network Service Provider – your power company) approve such a function with grid connectivity. Game-changing!

AC Charger: The Sigenergy AC electric vehicle (level 2) fast charger has all the features one would expect from a solar-optimised charging option boasting a more affordable price point when compared to its DC charging counterpart. Available in single phase up to 7 kW or three-phase up to 22 kW.

mySigen App:  Built on a software-first platform, mySigen’s App is one of the most advanced. Software is how sustainable energy ecosystems communicate with us for enhanced user experience, affecting the most significant energy-saving potential. mySigen excels compared to conventional monitoring platforms because it integrates GPT-4 capabilities for action, reporting, diagnosis and support. Extended reading: Sigenergy defines a new digital battery era ›

Sigenergy certified installer. Ensure a quote by a proven and local Sigenergy partner. 

Sigenergy warranty

Ten years for major components such as the battery and controller/inverter. Perhaps what could also be considered a major component is the Gateway. However, the Sigenergy Gateway only includes two years of guaranteed cover. Understandable, considering the potential variance between unique installations’ use and power supply conditions. Installations prone to less stable power supplies are more likely to induce additional wear on the gateway relays and electronics. Reviewing similar hardware, two years warranty on control devices such as the Sigenergy Gateway is comparative.

Always remember specific exclusions apply, such as failure to comply with Sigenergy’s operating instructions and installation guide. The simplest solution to ensure a dependable Sigenergy product warranty for the enduring period is to use a Sigenergy Certified Installer. Perth Solar Warehouse is a Sigenergy-certified installer located in the Perth and Bunbury regions of Western Australia.

Covered Product
Covered Part*
Warranty Period
SigenStor
Sigen Battery
10 years
Sigen Energy Controller
10 years
Accessories
Sigen Energy Gateway
2 years
Sigen Power Sensor
2 years
Sigen Communication Module
2 years

Review the attached warranty download for the complete list of exclusions, warranty definitions, warranty extension options, the warranty claims process, and your Rights beyond manufacturer guarantees.

Warranty Download

Where are they made

Operating in more than 30 countries and with seven global offices/support centres, including Sydney, Australia, Sigenergy SigenStor products are manufactured in the heart of modern automated process: Shanghai, China. Set on a 20,000-square-meter facility, energy investors can rest assured of the tightest quality control processes before delivery. Featuring R&D, lab testing, and assembly, Sigenergy has invested in superior outcomes without outsourcing critical componentry.

What do they cost

It is a unique product to compare on cost due to its all-in-one modular design and the fact that there is yet to be competition to compete directly. More likely than not, new mainstream competition will emerge from Sigenergy’s revolutionary design towards energy independence.

We’ve left out solar panels for relative battery comparison costs. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of p/kWh includes the Sigen Energy Gateway, slightly inflating comparative DC-coupled battery figures. What is apparent is that increasing the combined energy density reduces the cost per kWh due to the one-off investment in critical components of the controller, gateway and preliminary installation. 

Model
Useable Storage kWh
Approx.
Cost p/kWh1
PSW Price
SigenStor SP 5kW
(inc. gateway)
• 5.2
• 7.8
• 15.6
• 23.4
• $1633
• $1280
• $961
• $854
Quote
SigenStor TP 5kW
(inc. gateway)
• 5.2
• 7.8
• 15.6
• 23.4
• $2098
• $1537
• $1089
• $939
Quote

Tip: The 8 kWh (7.8 kWh useable) SigenStor module provides the best value per kWh compared to the 5 kWh unit. Multiples of 8 kWh modules significantly reduce the cost per kWh when purchased through Perth Solar Warehouse, ensuring an improved likelihood of bill reduction success through superior energy density.

Model
Storage
Approx.
Cost 2
PSW Price
DC EV Charger
25 kW
TBC
Quote
AC EV Charger
• SP 7 kW
• TP 11/22 kW
• TBC
• TBC
Quote

1. Approximate cost per kWh installed, based on values relevant within 30 days of the article post date. 

2. All EV charger costs listed on Perth Solar Warehouse exclude installation for universal comparison.

The above-listed prices are general only. Ensure our best Sigenergy product prices: Get your copy of the latest Perth Solar Warehouse catalogue with variable size options.

Final chance. Your copy of the latest Perth Solar Warehouse catalogue. 

Pairing options

If installing as part of a new solar energy system, the ideal solar panel is often the next consideration. The following three solar panels complement SigenStor energy systems by Perth Solar Warehouse.

Risen Solar Panels Perth Solar Warehouse

Reputation: Risen Energy has a reputation in Australia as a preferred solar panel brand incorporated within utility-scale projects such as the Merredin solar farm.

Review: Risen solar panels: 5 things you need to know before investing

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Jinko Neo Satin all-black solar panel render for solar panels by Perth Solar Warehouse

N-Type module: More than a new era n-type module, the Jinko Tiger Neo combines superior durability and performance for assured energy investment. Jinko reins as one of Australia’s favourite solar panel brands with over 1,000,000 Jinko Tiger Neo 440W n-type solar panels shipped (Aug 2023).

Review: Which Jinko Solar panels should you consider?

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Aiko Solar Panel, all-black, NeoStar 1S, no background

Most innovative: Aiko Energy has developed one of the most efficient solar panels commercially available. The Aiko Neostar range is the residential solar module incorporating an InterSolar Award-winning (2023) ABC n-type architecture complementing Sigenergy’s advanced nature.

Review: AIKO set to revolutionise the Australia market

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Which is ideal for you

First, determine if you have a single or 3-phase power supply at your property. After selecting the relevant power supply, total daily energy consumption is the next step to gauge appropriate solar array and battery sizing. 

Determining time-based energy consumption will assist a more comprehensive Sigenergy SigenStor battery (kWh) to solar panel (kW) ratio. Without time-based energy use information, consider approximately how much energy you consume during the day and night. An example of this could be 40% day and 60% night. With basic energy use knowledge alongside your energy bill information, we can design the ideal Sigenergy SigenStor solution to suit your needs.

Designed for a new generation of energy users, Sigenergy incorporates the unrivalled user experience most expect from 2024. Building advanced hardware to suit superior software, empowering users throughout an ever-changing energy landscape. But this isn’t just spin. Sigenergy’s global case studies are convincingly good in diverse global locations. Once in a decade, an energy product arises and shapes a new direction through superior design and user experience. SigenStor is this decades.

Seeking a Sigenergy solution? As a proven Sigenergy partner based in Perth, Western Australia, we can assist. 

Ultimate guide: Solar rebate Perth and Bunbury WA region 2024

Sunrise over Perth City for Solar Rebate Perth WA

Exercise caution surrounding subsidy hype. Even though the zone 3 solar rebate Perth and Bunbury region customers can access isn’t a fixed rebate/subsidy, it’s always advisable to consider your options. Comprised of Small Technology Certificates (STCs), the value is subject to potential change daily. However, more recently, the spot price per certificate has remained relatively stable, affecting a steady total subsidy amount. Here is the need-to-know information (including amounts) when considering the solar rebate in 2024.

Contents

How much are you entitled to

The solar rebate Perth customers can access varies depending on system size (combined solar module generation capacity). Most typical residential subsidies start from $1,456 for a 3.9 kW solar system to $2426 for a 6.6 kW solar energy system. Subsidies increase for larger solar energy systems based on the ability to offset more significant carbon emissions. 10.5 kW solar systems enjoy a $3882 contribution to offset the cost, while a 13.2 kW system benefits from up to $4852.

Array size
STCs
Subsidy
3.9 kW
38
$1,456
6.6 kW
64
$2,426
10.5 kW
102
$3,882
13.2 kW
128
$4,852

As a traded component for offsetting carbon emissions, the solar rebate has the potential to fluctuate daily while degrading in annual blocks for the remaining 7 years of the preset target.

Even though spot value fluctuations have occurred in the past, it’s advisable to avoid rushing a buying decision based on subsidy value. Instead, ensure an informed buying decision as the fluctuations, and annual variances are minimal over a solar energy system’s life expectancy.

In the following content, understand how to calculate your precise solar subsidy and the amount you are entitled to depending on your ideal energy system size.

Is there a battery rebate in WA?

Somewhat but not entirely, so we created its very own post that we keep updated individually as the landscape changes. Solar battery rebates and offers ›

Discover the savings. Your copy of the latest catalogue.

How the solar rebate works

Your new solar energy system is eligible for a nominated amount of certificates based on its ability to offset carbon emissions over the next 7 years. That’s right, you will produce clean, green energy, not just energy savings. Therefore, the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator rewards you with a designated number of Small Technology Certificates (STCs) depending on your solar energy system size.

Your subsidy value is acquired by trading your Small Technology Certificates with big polluters who must purchase these clean energy certificates (STCs) to offset their carbon emissions towards net zero. Such complexities are often too much for most, including solar companies. Therefore, releasing the Small Technology Certificates for a point-of-sale discount at an agreed market rate is more manageable.

At the time of writing, $38 is considered a stable rate amongst most retailers, allowing for potential market fluctuations without consumer clawback in the event of change.

On top of a point-of-sale discount (subsidy), most residential solar systems are eligible for a feed-in tariff through Synergy for excess energy exported to the grid. Learn more ›

Lock it in

Small Technology Certificate trading values have the potential to vary. July 2017, the spot value of STCs plummeted from $38 to $26 almost overnight due to an oversupply with insufficient purchasers. One year of STC value uncertainty followed. Since this and other instances, lost STC value recovery (clawback clause) is embedded into the terms and conditions of many installation contracts. In addition to the contract price, such could render the lost STC value payable by the customer after installation.

Perth Solar Warehouse monitors markets extensively and will never alter costs after a contract is signed unless agreed upon by all parties.

An adequate installation agreement should have the following clearly defined:

  • STC value, e.g. $38.
  • STC quantity, e.g. 64 certificates (as in 6.6 kW).
  • STC total value, e.g. $2426 ($38 x 64 certificates).

When offered a point-of-sale discount as part of a solar package, you want the solar rebate to be precise and broken down into an easily calculable format. 

Hassle-free solar. From a locally based company you can trust. Google & SolarQuotes 4.9/5

How to calculate it

A formula for calculating the solar rebate exists, and here it is.

Array Combined Watts (Standard Test Conditions) x 1.382 x the current Small Technology Certificate multiplier of 7 years / 1000. The result is the maximum number of Small Technology Certificates eligible for your solar energy system.

Example: 6.6 kW Solar System

Solar Array Combined Watts (6600) x 1.382 x 7 (years) / 1000. The resulting number is the maximum STCs eligible.

(6660 x 1.382) x 7 / 1000 = 64.

Determining the amount of Small Technology Certificates (STCs) is 64 for a 6.6 kW system. Multiply this amount by the current market value of $38.

64 STCs x $38 = $2426.

Subsidy by system size expanded

For most, calculations are too time-consuming in a modern world full of fast information. It would be best if you had the figures to verify against.

The most common solar rebate Perth residential homeowners can expect to receive based on a $38 STC value and using a 440 W solar panel variant for multiplication is as follows:

Array size
STC’s
Subsidy
3.9 kW
38
$1,456
6.6 kW
64
$2,426
10.5 kW
102
$3,882
13.2 kW
128
$4,852
19.8 kW
192
$7,279
26.4 kW
255
$9,705
39.6 kW
383
$14,557

The above combined Small Technology Certificate value is an example and subject to potential market fluctuations.

In all system sizes, the solar rebate Perth and Bunbury region customers can access provides a significant upfront saving on the cost of energy security. Considering the value of the subsidy is due to reduce each year, now is an ideal time to invest in your energy future. Aim for a hassle-free transition to solar power. Perth Solar Warehouse Sales Support ensures you get the maximum solar subsidy with no risk potential.