Here’s what that means for your solar monitoring
Some major telecommunications carriers have stopped supporting devices operating on 2G and 3G networks. This trend is expected to become the norm for all carriers, which means people with solar systems will need to replace their old meters and modems with new 4G models.
If you don’t update, you will no longer be able to communicate with your system or monitor your system’s solar production. This could cause you to miss out on valuable incentives like Solar Renewable Energy Credits, significantly reducing your system’s return on investment.
Many of our customers have received notices from their monitoring companies about the end of 3G and the steps they should take to transition. Here is the A.M. Sun Solar guide to help you navigate this change.
Please reach out to us at (805) 772-6786 if you have any questions or need further assistance.
Enphase
Enphase has been reaching out to their customers individually and assisting with the transition to 4G. They have also offered discounts on 4G units and do-it-yourself guides to help homeowners install the necessary parts. Please contact us if you haven’t received an email from Enphase
AP Systems
AP Systems’ monitoring is currently internet-based, so no upgrades are needed at this time. We suggest that you continue to monitor your system regularly and review your utility statement each month. Contact us if you see anything out of the ordinary or have any questions about how to read your monthly statement. Here is a simple guide on how to read your PG&E NEM statement.
Tesla
Tesla has begun notifying customers of the switch to 4G. They have sent out instructions on how to connect your unit using wifi. Most of the powerwalls we install have already been set to wifi instead of cellular, but if you lose communication please contact our office and we will do our best to assist you. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you connect your powerwall to wifi, if needed.
SolarEdge
IIf you would like to continue monitoring your system using the SolarEdge monitoring portal, you will need to purchase a new cellular card compatible with 4G. The cost of this replacement ranges from $300-$600. Please call our office with your inverter serial number, and we will order the part from our supplier to get the lowest cost available. We will waive our standard $150 call-out fee and install the new part for you at our cost. SolarEdge has also put together an FAQ page with more useful information.
Now is the Time to Update to 4G
We recommend switching to 4G as soon as possible. Increased demand, factory shortages, and shipping delays have caused quite a backlog for new meters and modems.
Unfortunately, due to the inconsistency of cellular coverage and customer internet limitations, we can no longer continue to monitor our customers’ systems in-house. Additionally, if you choose not to upgrade your monitoring to 4G, we will no longer be able to see your system in our monitoring portal.
However, we will continue to support our customers with service requests and statement overviews upon request. Keep an eye on your monthly utility statement and notify us if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
If you have questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to call us at (805) 772-6786.
More about A.M. Sun Solar
A.M. Sun Solar is the local leader in custom solar solutions and installations on the Central Coast. For over 15 years, A.M. Sun Solar has provided high quality, cost efficient solar energy to residences and small businesses in San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Santa Barbara counties. With a wide variety of financing solutions available, affordable pricing, custom solutions and complete installations from permit to interconnection, A.M. Sun Solar is the go to local solar company on the Central Coast.
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