In this article, we’ll walk through the key steps in designing a 1MW solar + 2MWh battery storage project, using an AC-coupled architecture as an example. Whether you’re planning a new project or upgrading an existing solar system, these considerations will help you build a reliable and cost-effective solution.
Before diving into system design, it’s essential to understand your energy needs.
Ask these questions:
Is the system primarily for peak shaving to lower electricity demand charges?
Do you need backup power to protect against grid outages?
Are you aiming to sell excess power back to the grid?
Will the system participate in demand response or frequency regulation programs?
Example:
A factory may consume large amounts of power during the day and face high peak electricity rates.
A 1MW solar + 2MWh storage system could offset daytime energy use while storing excess power to cover evening peak periods.
By mapping out your load profile (hourly energy consumption throughout the day), you can determine the right balance between solar generation and battery storage capacity.
One of the most critical design decisions is whether to use an AC-coupled or DC-coupled system.
Feature AC-Coupled System DC-Coupled System
Design Solar inverter and battery inverter are separate, connected on AC side. Solar and storage share the same DC bus.
Ideal For Retrofit projects, flexible expansion. New projects where efficiency is a priority.
Efficiency Slightly lower due to double conversion. Higher, single conversion path.
Scalability Easy to add more solar or storage later. Limited by initial inverter sizing.
For a 1MW / 2MWh project, AC coupling is often preferred because:
It allows independent operation of solar and storage systems.
The project can be built in stages: install solar first, then add storage later.
It’s ideal for retrofitting existing solar plants.
Let’s look at a practical example of system sizing using Bluesun’s integrated solution.
Solar Component
610W half-cell TOPCon solar panels
Total panels required: 1,638 pieces
Total solar capacity: ≈ 1MW
These high-efficiency panels maximize energy generation in limited space, ideal for commercial rooftops or ground-mounted installations.
Energy Storage Component
125kW / 261kWh integrated storage cabinets, 8 units total
Total storage capacity: 2MWh
Each cabinet contains five 166.4V / 314Ah lithium battery modules, including a built-in BMS (Battery Management System).
Cabinets can be connected in parallel for easy scalability.
This configuration provides 8 hours of storage at 250kW discharge or 4 hours at 500kW, depending on operational strategy.
When designing a solar + storage project, pay attention to these core elements:
(1) Solar Panels
TOPCon technology for high conversion efficiency and better low-light performance.
Half-cell design to reduce internal power losses.
Long lifespan with robust wind and snow load resistance.
(2) Lithium Battery Modules
LFP chemistry (Lithium Iron Phosphate) for safety and stability.
Over 6,000 charge/discharge cycles, ensuring long-term performance.
Integrated BMS for real-time monitoring and protection.
(3) Energy Management System (EMS)
The EMS is the brain of the system, optimizing when to charge or discharge the battery.
It enables:
Peak shaving and load shifting.
Integration with local utility tariffs.
Remote monitoring and maintenance.
Designing a 1MW solar + 2MWh battery storage project requires careful planning and the right technology.
By clearly defining energy goals, choosing the right system architecture, and selecting reliable components, businesses can build a sustainable, cost-effective energy solution.
Bluesun offers comprehensive support, from system design to manufacturing and technical services, helping customers worldwide deploy scalable solar + storage projects.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward energy independence, contact a trusted solution provider like Bluesun to customize your project today.
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