Hi All. 

I am looking for an easy to understand explanation about the differences between the Growatt SPH vs SPF series. 

In layman’s terms please. I struggle to understand terms like AC coupled etc.

I am particularly looking to understand which one is a true hybrid, i.e. can blend Mains/Solar/Battery at the same time, and off course, switch to Solar/Battery for critical loads when mains is off (load shedding). 

And for those with experience, what are those. Prices look competitive compared to Victron and Goodwe, so doing some research. 

Given that you are looking for a true hybrid, definitely not the SPF. It isn't. I do not have first hand experience with the SPH.

The Growatt and Goodwe 4.6 ES aren't directly comparable to a Victron though (presumably you are referring to the Multiplus II 5kVA). Victron has 50Amps transfer capacity. Basically, the Victron can power your entire house while Eskom is on, no need to worry about what you have on your backup circuit or not, as long as you are willing to manage it during a power outage. It can invert roughly 20Amps (5kVA) capacity from battery and solar sources when Eskom isn't available. It has the ability to be run in parallel and take any amount of MPPTs (obviously this would need to be purchased). It has substantial local and international support. If you need help with the software, your supplier can literally log into your system from anywhere (given that you have internet access and a GX device) and can troubleshoot and reconfigure if necessary.

I also see that the Growatt SPH only seems to have 3kW available on the backup, this almost makes it seem like it is like the one Goodwe model, think it is the EM, that has such weak backup ability.

 

Edited June 27, 20206 yr by jykenmynie
Additional info added

Thanks

What do you loose with the SPF va SPH? In other words, hoe do they differ?

I do not know the SPH, just had a quick look on its spec sheet just now. The backup output looked really weak to me, seems similar to the Goodwe 4.6 EM. The SPF is very similar to the Axperts many of those on the forum have, so they might be better suited to help you understand its capabilities better.

My experience with it was limited, as I wanted it exchanged as 1. it couldn't communicate with my lithium battery's BMS and 2. it wasn't a hybrid. Not being a hybrid would mean that much of my intended solar potential (I don't have panels yet, still planning it) would probably go to waste, because my backup circuit is very light.

 

Dear daniemare

Please be noted that Growatt sph series output can connect to grid like grid tie pv inverter, in addition they have battery backup function to switch to in case of network mains power outage.

But Growatt spf series are off-grid hybrid integrated (charger/inverter) that can be charged from different sources (like mains power, diesel, battery, PV; thats why called hybrid) but its output can not be connected to live grid 

 

 

 

The Sunsync might be a good option for your needs. It is also approved for grid tied use by SA governments. 

It's a true Hybrid and comes with all the Wi-Fi communication devices for remote access to the system. They can be dynamically set up with various power scenarios and kan be expanded in a modular manner (Parallel inverters). They have user friendly touch display and are cost-effective compared to similar quality True Hybrid inverters. 

They are easily found in 5Kva version and 8Kva version. 

I think the difference in transfer time between utility and batteries in SPH takes less 10mS this very important for some users and some applications.