As more PV systems are installed in remote locations like powering cell network towers in Africa, for instance, or remote locations, like park bathrooms, having a way to remotely control what’s going on with the installation’s power system is a big help and can avoid costly maintenance trips. That’s what OutBack Power’s trying to do with its new AXS Port Modbus/TCP Interface device. It allows system operators or maintenance personnel a way to remotely communicate and control the renewable and backup energy systems in remote locations. The devices are developed for systems between roughly 600 watts and up to 1 megawatt.

The device can be connected to the Internet. “If someone used a GSM modem to connect to their cell tower site,” Phil Undercuffler, Director of Product Management at OutBack Power, offered as an example. So the controller can be told to direct the system to charge batteries via a generator or the PV as needed or change the system’s voltage set point, if the system’s data indicates such an action is needed. 

The controller can communicate and be operated on an as-needed basis, according to Undercuffler. “It depends on what their needs are. The device is set up so it doesn’t require a constant connection,” he said. “One of the things about working in the renewable space in off-grid, is there is a vast majority of customers that don’t have broadband access.…Many monitoring solutions were based on having a constant connection.”

Such systems weren’t effective in remote applications. “The customer may not want the system to be on all the time. Our device is designed so it can blend both worlds. If you wanted  to have system that operates autonomously that reports every day, hour, etc.,” Undercuffler said. All data from the system can be downloaded remotely and information sent back to the system as needed. 

The system is designed for interoperability and is SunSpec compliant, which means it adheres to the standards developed by a consortium of companies to allow their devices to communicate easily. According to Undercuffler, it’s the first battery-based system to receive compliance certification from the SunSpec Alliance