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Introducing the Sonnenschein range of batteries
Sonnenschein manufacture lead-acid batteries which we use for off-grid solar projects.
Overview
Sonnenschein, which translated from German to English simply means sunshine, are a lead-acid battery manufacturer who have been around since the early 1900s. They make batteries suitable for off-grid solar, and they make them extremely well. Their overall product range is vast; the use for their batteries varies from military applications, marine, mobility, and of course solar.
Designing off-grid solar solutions is very different to grid-tied solar, which in comparison is very basic. Load profiles and expectations for autonomy need to be studied very carefully before we start putting pen to paper on an actual design for any size off-grid solar project.
In recent years we have seen a rapid increase in enquiries from clients who have a desire to be removed from the power grid and are requesting a stand alone solar solution.
The Sonnenschein range of batteries allows us to design specific solutions for various scenarios requiring stand alone solar. Every stand alone solar project is vastly different and has to be built from the load profile up. Sonnenschein provide flexible options which allow us to design these systems effectively.
With a company history spanning well over a hundred years, and manufacturing facilities in various locations across North America and Europe, we believe Sonnenschein offer a great product for stand alone solar projects.
Project Reference – Telefomin 400kW off-grid battery solution
Summary
Telefomin is a station town on the border of Sandaun and Western Provinces in Papua New Guinea. The town started during the Second World War after Mick Leahy was assigned to engineer an air-strip in 1944 for the United States for use against the Imperial Japanese Army forces based in New Guinea. Access is extremely limited and there is no grid electricity. In June 2019 GI Energy was asked to put together a feasibility report to show how solar PV and battery technology could be used to work with existing hydro electric operating in the town.
We designed a system that will work with existing infrastructure to provide reliable electricity to a nurses station, primary school, secondary school, hospital and a Police station. We are the sole supplier for all goods required for this project and we are continually involved with ongoing engineering and design advice.
System overview
We have designed a solution using Sonnenschein Solar Sealed 2V Gel Cell batteries, Phono Solar panels, Selectronic SP Pro battery chargers, Fronius Primo Selectronic Certified inverters, Atlas Copco QIS 10.1 Single Phase Generators and a range of other electrical components.
Unique project challenges
The location of this site presents challenges in itself. Our scope of work was to get goods to Port Moresby, and from here the Australian Army is providing assistance airlifting the equipment to site. There is no road access to site and limited skilled labour available within the community so designing a low maintenance system was a key factor in the scope of works.
The system also needs to work in line with the existing hydro electric power on site. The area also has severe rain seasons so the back up generators need to be 100% reliable and work automatically when needed.
288 x Sonnenschein Solar Sealed 2V Gel Cell batteries
763 x Phono Solar Hyperion solar panels
26 x Selectronic-Certified Fronius Primo inverters
11 x Selectronic SP Pro battery chargers
Clenergy SolarRoof PV racking systems
5 x Atlas Copco QIS 10.1 single phase generators
We always tailor to your needs and have access to any inverter on the market for you.
Our philosophy has always been to put customers first and we have been helping Australians save money with good quality solar since 2011. We believe the correct way to do this is to ensure we do not have relationships with specific manufacturers, that limit what can offer you.
We tailor every single system individually and make sure customers are being offer the correct type of technology, from the right manufacturer based on what their home or business needs.
We love Fronius inverters and they are a good fit for most installations. However, if your project requires a different type of technology, or brand, rest assured we will have access to it and make sure you get what you need for the right cost!
Lifetime Service Guarantee
When you deal with GI Energy you know you are in safe hands forever with our lifetime service guarantee.
100% Australian Owned
GI Energy is a privately owned, Australian company. We have been trading since 2011 which makes us one of Australia's longest serving solar companies
Highest industry accreditation
We were the 57th company in Australia to become a CEC Approved retailer. We employ CEC Designers and electrical engineers to make sure you are being looked after by the best.
Other Batteries
Please click on the logos on the right to see more information about the battery brands we typically use.
Solar storage is becoming more and more popular every year, and slowly becoming the standard when installing a solar array for your home or business.
Batteries play an integral part in helping reduce kWh charges, level peak demand and provide electricity when there is no access to grid power.
As with all the services we offer, the manufacturers on the right are not the only choices you have for batteries. If you would like some feedback on other brands, please get in touch.
Solar Panels
Please click on the logos on the left to see more information about the solar panel brands we typically use.
Choosing a solar panel is usually more difficult due to being a broader choice when compared to inverters. Because there are more options available, it is more difficult to do your research.
The brands to the left are products we use more often than anything else. However, we can access any panel, so get in touch if you want some advice on other brands.
Inverters
Please click on the logos on the right to see more information about the other string inverter brands we typically use.
All of these inverters have their place in the market for different reasons, and we supply a high volume of all of them.
Depending on what your needs are, and what your budget for your solar project is, you may find one of these brands more suitable.
There are many other inverter brands we have not listed here, so if you want some advice on another product, please get in touch and our engineering team can help.
