Bidirectional EV Chargers Review — Clean Energy Reviews

The Sigenergy SigenStor is one of the most exciting products enabling bidirectional EV charging. Unlike the other dedicated bidirectional DC chargers, Sigenergy has developed a versatile hybrid system that integrates solar, battery storage and bidirectional EV charging in one compact unit. The system comprises 4 main components: a hybrid inverter, battery, backup box and bidirectional EV charger. The hybrid inverter is available in single-phase and three-phase models from 5kW to 25kW and features multiple solar PV inputs (MPPTs), which can be oversized up to 200%, enabling large solar arrays required for all-electric homes and EV charging. Battery capacity is scalable, using 5kWh and 8kWh modules with up to six units per stack, providing a maximum of 48kWh capacity.

12.5kW or 25kW Bidirectional DC chargers

On the EV charging side, the DC bidirectional charger will be available in two sizes: a smaller 12.5kW unit or a large 25kW unit designed to be used with a 3-phase AC supply. However, the true innovation lies in the DC power bus, which enables direct DC charging from solar. Additionally, the battery-integrated DC-DC conversion boosts the relatively low 32V modules to 150V—1000V to match the various EV battery voltages.

Using the additional Gateway backup box, the system can operate in off-grid mode and provide true UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) power. It’s worth noting that hybrid solar systems utilising bidirectional charging technology have been around for many years for home battery storage applications, so it’s not surprising that Sigenergy has enhanced this technology to support EV bidirectional charging.

Pricing – Now available in Australia

The Sigenergy system was first released in Europe, and the system is now on sale in Australia. Pricing appears very competitive, with the smaller charger selling for around AU$6,000 or US$4,000, while the larger 25kW bidirectional DC charging unit goes for AU$7,000 or roughly $5,000 US dollars, making these the most affordable bidirectional chargers (per kW) available (assuming you have a Sigenergy system). Note that the bidirectional charging unit cannot be used for V2G unless given regulatory approval in your area. However, the system can be used in off-grid or V2H mode, which effectively islands your home from the grid using the vehicle battery to power your home.

Download the Sigenergy Sigenstor datasheet or the bidirectional charger specifications.

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