Essential Products for Balcony Solar Energy Storage Systems

What Products Can Be Used in Balcony Photovoltaic Energy Storage Systems?

Published on April 4, 2025

With the increasing attention on distributed energy systems, balcony photovoltaic energy storage solutions have garnered significant interest due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Typically, this solution involves photovoltaic modules, energy storage systems, inverters, and metering devices. To accurately monitor the flow of electricity and ensure the safe operation of the system, external current transformer meters are essential components. This article discusses the application value of external current transformer rail-mounted multifunctional energy meters in balcony photovoltaic energy storage solutions.

1. Introduction

Driven by the “dual carbon” goals and energy transition, more households are beginning to explore balcony photovoltaic energy storage systems. This system not only harnesses solar energy for power generation but also integrates storage devices to continue supplying power to household appliances during nighttime or cloudy conditions, thus achieving effective energy utilization. However, a crucial aspect of this process is how to accurately monitor photovoltaic generation, energy storage charging and discharging, and household electricity consumption. This not only impacts the assessment of photovoltaic benefits but also relates to grid safety. Today, we will discuss a key device—external current transformer meters—and how they can enhance the efficient operation of balcony photovoltaic energy storage systems.

2. Balcony Photovoltaic Energy Meters

The balcony photovoltaic energy storage system has emerged as a new trend in household energy management, combining photovoltaic generation and storage technologies to increase self-consumption rates, reduce electricity costs, and enhance energy independence. The main benefits of balcony photovoltaic energy storage include:

• 3.1 Saving Electricity Costs and Increasing Photovoltaic Benefits
  Self-consumption: The electricity generated by photovoltaics during the day is used directly by the household, reducing the need to purchase power from the grid and consequently lowering electricity bills. Peak shaving: Excess energy generated during the day is stored in batteries and released during nighttime peak hours, avoiding high electricity rates and reducing costs. Reducing backflow risk: In some regions, there are restrictions or low subsidies for surplus electricity fed back to the grid; energy storage systems can minimize backflow, enhancing economic viability.
• 3.2 Increasing Energy Independence and Ensuring Power Supply
  Power outage response: In the event of an unexpected power outage, the energy storage system can provide backup power to meet essential needs such as lighting, internet, and household appliances. Reduced grid dependency: Local generation and storage can ensure power supply even during grid instability or power restrictions.
• 3.3 Promoting a Green, Low-Carbon Lifestyle
  Reducing carbon emissions: Utilizing photovoltaic generation decreases reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon dioxide emissions and aiding in achieving carbon neutrality. Optimizing energy structure: Encouraging households to transition to clean energy while reducing demand for traditional thermal power enhances renewable energy development.
• 3.4 Enhancing the Intelligence of Electricity Usage
  Smart management: In conjunction with smart meters and energy management systems (EMS), users can remotely monitor photovoltaic generation, storage status, and electricity consumption, enabling intelligent scheduling. Automated optimization of energy strategies: Leveraging big data analysis allows for automatic adjustments in charging and discharging strategies, such as modifying photovoltaic storage plans based on weather forecasts to improve efficiency.
• 3.5 Suitable for Various Household Environments
  Easy installation: Balcony photovoltaic systems typically feature a no-drill, plug-and-play design, making them ideal for renters or households without rooftop resources. Versatile scenarios: They can be utilized in regular homes, apartments, villas, and other environments, making them suitable for urban households.

In summary, balcony photovoltaic energy storage systems not only reduce electricity costs and enhance energy independence but also promote smarter and greener energy usage, making them a vital choice for modern household energy management. As storage technology and policy support continue to improve, balcony photovoltaics are poised to become an essential part of future household energy solutions.

3. The Application of Bidirectional Energy Meters

3.1 Why Do Balcony Photovoltaics Need Energy Meters?

The core of a balcony photovoltaic energy storage system lies in the synergy between photovoltaic modules, inverters, storage batteries, and household power networks. To ensure efficient operation at every stage, precise monitoring of energy flow is required. However, traditional energy meters often cater to single measurement needs and fall short of meeting the complex requirements of distributed energy systems. External current transformer meters can accurately measure photovoltaic generation, energy storage charging and discharging, and household electricity usage, providing reliable data support for intelligent energy management.

3.2 Three Core Advantages of External Current Transformer Meters

Among the various energy metering devices, why are external current transformer meters ideal for balcony photovoltaics? Here are three significant advantages:

• High Precision Monitoring—These meters can monitor voltage, current, power, power factor, and other parameters in real-time, accurately recording photovoltaic generation and preventing data errors that could affect billing or profit calculation.
• Flexible Adaptation to Varying Power Outputs—They support different specifications of current transformers, making them suitable for various photovoltaic energy storage systems, whether for small 3kW household setups or larger systems, ensuring precise measurement.
• Remote Monitoring and Intelligent Management—Through RS485 communication and Modbus protocols, these meters can connect to energy management systems, allowing users to monitor photovoltaic generation and storage status at any time via a mobile app or cloud platform, facilitating intelligent management.

3.3 Bidirectional Energy Meter for Energy Storage

The rail-mounted multifunctional energy meter is an intelligent device designed primarily for photovoltaic grid-connected systems, micro-inverter systems, energy storage systems, and AC coupling systems. It boasts high accuracy, compact size, fast response, and ease of installation. This meter samples and monitors power parameters, enabling communication with inverters or energy management systems (EMS) to achieve functions such as backflow prevention, power regulation, and battery charging/discharging, allowing for bidirectional metering and managing household distributed photovoltaic energy.

Model Description

The ADL series external current transformer rail-mounted multifunctional energy meter is specifically designed for photovoltaic grid-connected systems, micro-inverter systems, and energy storage systems. Its main features include:

• Energy Metering Function: The ADL series energy meter can perform bidirectional metering of active and reactive energy, supporting both forward and reverse energy measurements suitable for the energy metering needs of photovoltaic storage systems.
• Power Parameter Measurement: This energy meter can measure voltage, current, active power, reactive power, apparent power, power factor, frequency, and other power parameters, ensuring real-time monitoring of system operational status.
• Communication Function: The ADL series energy meter supports RS485 communication interfaces and uses Modbus RTU communication protocol, enabling data exchange with inverters or energy management systems for remote monitoring and intelligent management.
• High Precision and Fast Response: The energy meter possesses high-precision measurement capabilities with an error range within ±0.5% and a short response time, allowing for quick detection of changes in power parameters to ensure real-time accuracy.
• Multiple Installation Methods: The ADL series energy meter supports rail-mounted installation, making it easy to install in various photovoltaic storage system environments.

4. Application Scenarios

• Photovoltaic Generation Monitoring: Installed at the inverter output, it records the actual generation of the photovoltaic modules, ensuring users are aware of daily production.
• Storage Charging and Discharging Monitoring: Installed in the charging and discharging circuits of the storage system, it independently measures the battery’s charging and discharging amounts, helping users optimize storage strategies and increase the self-consumption ratio of photovoltaics.
• Household and Grid Monitoring: Monitors household electricity loads while providing data on grid-connected power to prevent backflow that could impact the grid.
• Remote Data Analysis: With intelligent communication capabilities, the meter can connect to energy management systems for remote monitoring and intelligent analysis, allowing users to view data anytime and optimize energy usage.

5. Acrel Balcony Photovoltaic Current Transformers and Safety Locks

5.1 Why Are Current Transformers Needed in Balcony Photovoltaics?

During the operation of balcony photovoltaic systems, when the generation power exceeds household load power, excess electricity may flow back into the grid, causing “backflow.” This phenomenon can disrupt the stable operation of the power system and pose safety risks.

5.2 Role of Acrel Balcony Photovoltaic Current Transformers

• Preventing Backflow: Real-time monitoring of current size and direction allows for quick response to data anomalies, adjusting the inverter’s output power to prevent backflow.
• Ensuring System Safety: During operation, if the current exceeds set thresholds or anomalies are detected, protection mechanisms can be triggered to prevent equipment damage or safety incidents.
• Improving Energy Utilization Efficiency: Current transformers accurately measure the output current of photovoltaic panels and, combined with voltage measurements, calculate generation power. If generation power exceeds load power, the system can promptly reduce the inverter’s output to maintain a balance between supply and demand, avoiding energy waste.

5.3 Usage Environment for Acrel Balcony Photovoltaic Current Transformers

• Rated working voltage: AC 0.66kV (equivalent to AC 0.69kV, GB/T 156-2017)
• Rated frequency: 50-60Hz
• Environmental temperature: -30℃ to 70℃
• Altitude: ≤3000m
• Power frequency withstand voltage: 3000V/1min at 50Hz
• Suitable for locations without direct rain or snow exposure, severe pollution, or intense vibrations.

6. Introduction to Acrel Backflow Prevention Current Transformers

The AKH-0.66/K-Φ16 series open-type current transformer is visually appealing and easy to install and connect, primarily used in power operation and electricity renovation projects, typically outputting AC 5A (other specifications available upon inquiry). The Acrel backflow prevention transformer features numerous advantages, including a compact design, high precision, strong load capacity, and ease of installation. For instance, it is specially designed for the renovation of power distribution systems below 100A and can be used with AMC16 multi-loop monitoring instruments.

6.1 Model Description and Specifications

Note: The lead length is 2 meters with 2*26AWG insulated wire, featuring cold-pressed terminals (0510) connected to terminal type: (PLTB1.5-03-B-3.81-SP2 SP0).

6.2 Parameter Comparison Table and Usage Environment

Users can refer to the parameter comparison table for a clear understanding of the technical specifications of different models, facilitating better choices.

• Rated working voltage: AC 0.66kV (equivalent to AC 0.69kV, GB/T 156-2017)
• Rated frequency: 50-60Hz
• Environmental temperature: -30℃ to 70℃
• Altitude: ≤3000m
• Power frequency withstand voltage: 3000V/1min at 50Hz
• Designed for environments without direct rain or snow exposure, severe pollution, or intense vibrations.

7. Installation Methods and Precautions

Product Advantages

• Low-Cost Deployment: Suitable for quick installation without the need for additional gateways or complex wiring.
• Convenient Installation: The compact rail meter design fits well in the small distribution boxes of balcony storage systems, saving space.
• Strong Real-Time Capability: Utilizing the rapid response capability of Wi-Fi, it enables low-latency data transmission.
• Smart Interconnection: By connecting to the balcony energy storage system and other smart devices (like smart sockets or electric vehicle charging stations), it facilitates intelligent energy management.
• High Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with photovoltaic inverters, battery management systems (BMS), and home energy management systems (HEMS).

8. Balcony Energy Storage Wi-Fi Meters

The Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter is delicately designed and compact, using a standard DIN 35mm rail design for easy installation. It can be easily installed in the distribution box of the balcony energy storage system without taking up much space, allowing precise monitoring and management of every kilowatt-hour.

8.1 Accurate Measurement and Transparent Data

This meter features high precision bidirectional metering capabilities, accurately recording the amount of electricity generated by the balcony solar panels, the charging and discharging of the battery storage, and the power consumed from the grid. Through Wi-Fi connectivity, users can check these detailed data on a mobile app or computer, clearly understanding the flow of household energy. For example, users can see how much electricity was generated by solar energy throughout the day and which periods utilized battery-stored energy, allowing for better household energy planning and achieving energy savings.

8.2 Smart Monitoring and Safety Assurance

In balcony energy storage systems, safety is paramount. The Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter can not only monitor basic power parameters such as voltage, current, and power but also analyze energy quality to detect potential issues like harmonics and imbalances. In case of anomalies, it sends alerts to users via the mobile app, prompting timely action to avoid safety incidents. Additionally, this meter features backflow prevention, effectively preventing excess electricity from flowing back into the grid and protecting both equipment and the grid.

8.3 Convenient Communication and Remote Management

With an integrated Wi-Fi module, the Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter achieves seamless connectivity with household networks. Users do not need complicated wiring to upload meter data to the cloud. This means that even when users are away from home, they can remotely manage the balcony energy storage system via a mobile app, checking meter data and controlling battery charging and discharging based on actual needs to optimize energy allocation.

9. Embracing a Green Future with Smart Living

The Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter makes balcony energy storage more intelligent and convenient, bringing numerous benefits to our lives. It not only helps save on electricity costs but also contributes to environmental protection. Imagine each morning as sunlight shines on solar panels on the balcony, converting into stored energy; at night, when lights turn on, this clean energy illuminates our homes. The Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter acts as a silent guardian, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

As the demand for green energy continues to rise, the application prospects for balcony energy storage systems will become even broader. With its excellent performance and convenient features, the Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter is set to become an integral part of balcony energy storage solutions. Together, let us harness the power of the Acrel rail-mounted Wi-Fi meter to embark on a smarter and greener lifestyle.

10. The ADL Series Meter: The Smart Core of Balcony Energy Storage

The Acrel ADL series meter is specifically designed for balcony energy storage systems, offering multiple functions that make it an indispensable tool for energy management. It acts as the “smart brain” of the balcony energy storage system, accurately controlling every kilowatt-hour of energy flow.

10.1 High-Precision Bidirectional Metering

The ADL series meter supports bidirectional energy metering, allowing it to accurately distinguish between photovoltaic generation, battery discharging, and data from electricity purchased from the grid. Whether storing energy during the day or discharging it at night, every change in energy usage is monitored. By providing real-time feedback to the energy management system (EMS), it enables intelligent scheduling of “self-consumption and surplus energy storage,” maximizing the value of every kilowatt-hour and minimizing electricity waste.

10.2 Backflow Prevention Function

When photovoltaic generation exceeds household demand, excess energy flowing back into the grid can damage equipment and may lead to regulatory penalties. The ADL series meter includes a rapid backflow prevention function that responds within 100ms. By monitoring the power direction at the grid connection point, it automatically adjusts the inverter’s output or activates storage devices to ensure zero backflow, complying with grid requirements and alleviating user concerns.

10.3 Comprehensive Power Parameter Monitoring

Integrating voltage, current, power, harmonics (2-31 orders), and other power parameter monitoring with an accuracy of ±0.2%, the ADL series meter supports time-of-use pricing and historical data storage (48 months of energy records). This helps users conduct detailed energy analysis. Users can access household electricity data anytime via mobile apps or computers, facilitating informed adjustments to their energy consumption habits and further reducing energy use.

10.4 Convenient Rail-Mounted Installation

With a standard DIN 35mm rail-mounted design, the ADL series meter is compact and easy to install. It requires no complex wiring and is ready for immediate use, making it especially suitable for residential photovoltaic and commercial energy storage setups. This greatly reduces installation time and cost, enhancing installation efficiency by 50%. Even non-professionals can complete the installation effortlessly.

11. Application Scenarios for the ADL Series Meter

• Household Photovoltaic Systems: Installing photovoltaic panels on residential balconies alongside the ADL series meter and storage batteries enables energy storage during the day and usage at night. Statistics indicate that this combination can result in a 30% reduction in household electricity costs. Users can optimize energy usage by monitoring data, for example, adjusting air conditioning use during peak price periods to save on bills.
• Commercial Energy Storage: For small shops, guesthouses, and other commercial establishments, the ADL series meter excels. It balances peak and off-peak electricity rates, reducing capacity fees and stabilizing energy consumption. During peak hours, it discharges from the storage system to minimize purchases from the grid, while during off-peak hours, it stores low-cost grid electricity to maximize economic benefits.
• Microgrids and Charging Stations: In microgrid projects and electric vehicle charging station scenarios, the ADL series meter facilitates integrated management of photovoltaic generation and storage, optimizing energy allocation efficiency. It can precisely measure energy flow across multiple nodes, supporting distributed transactions and bolstering the widespread application of renewable energy.

12. Conclusion

The proliferation of balcony photovoltaic energy storage systems has ushered household energy management into an intelligent era, with external current transformer meters serving as crucial support for this transformation. They not only enhance the visual management of photovoltaic generation but also assist users in energy allocation, saving on electricity costs while promoting a greener, low-carbon lifestyle. As smart grids and distributed energy systems continue to develop, precise metering, remote monitoring, and intelligent optimization will emerge as new trends in energy management. External current transformer meters will play an increasingly vital role in this transformation!