Founded by Gao Jifan in 1997, Trina Solar has become one of the leading solar panel manufacturers globally, known as part of the "big five" in the industry. Based in China, Trina Solar is a publicly listed company on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, boasting a market capitalization of approximately 47 billion Chinese Yuan (~AUD$10bn). The company has a strong financial foundation and a history of innovation in the solar energy sector.
Trina Solar ventured into solar batteries with the launch of the 9.6kWh 'Power Cube,' which could be retrofitted to existing solar systems with an additional power box. However, it appears that this product line has been discontinued, as it is no longer featured on their website.
Power Cube
Trinabess represents Trina Solar’s foray into solar battery storage. The company offers hybrid and retrofit battery systems suitable for both grid-connected and off-grid applications. In Australia, the flagship product is the Power Cube, a 9.6kWh (8.64kWh usable capacity) battery system featuring an AC battery converter known as the "Powerbox." Despite the built-in converter, the system still requires a solar inverter for proper operation.
Solar batteries are a significant financial investment, even with available subsidies in some Australian regions. As energy storage technology is still relatively new compared to solar panels, it is essential to gather comprehensive information before making a purchase decision.
Trinabess batteries operate within a temperature range of -20 to 50 degrees Celsius, making them well-suited for Australia’s hot climate. They are built using lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology, known for its chemical safety and long cycle life. Rated IP54, these batteries are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, providing versatility in installation.
Table: Key Specifications of Trinabess Power Cube
FeatureSpecificationUsable Capacity8.64 kWhOperating Temperature-20 to 50 degrees CelsiusIP RatingIP54 (indoor and outdoor use)Dimensions600mm x 530mm x 210mm (W x H x D)Weight65 kgBattery ChemistryLithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)
Compact Size
The Trinabess Power Cube is designed to be compact and portable, with dimensions of 600mm x 530mm x 210mm. Weighing 65kg, it is relatively easy to install and move if necessary. The installation process is straightforward, with an estimated setup time of around two hours.
Flexible Use
The Power Cube can be retrofitted to existing solar panel installations, making it a versatile option for those who initially opt for a grid-based solar system but wish to expand to a hybrid system in the future.
Scalable Capacity
These batteries can be connected in parallel to increase the storage system’s nominal capacity, providing flexibility for future energy needs. This is particularly useful if your current battery capacity is insufficient for your nighttime energy usage. The maximum number of modules that can be connected is not specified in the documentation, so it’s advisable to consult with Trinabess for detailed information.
Outdoor Rated IP54
The IP54 rating allows the unit to be installed outdoors, which is beneficial if indoor space is limited. This feature is especially advantageous when scaling the units in parallel for expanded storage capacity.
Table: Advantages of Trinabess Power Cube
FeatureBenefitCompact SizeEasy installation and portabilityFlexible UseCan retrofit to existing installationsScalable CapacityExpandable storage to meet future needsOutdoor RatedSuitable for outdoor installation
Pricing
We have reached out to Trinabess for the wholesale cost of their batteries and will update this section once we receive a response.
Warranty Terms
The Trinabess Power Cube 2.0 is backed by a 10-year warranty, covering battery performance and capacity. The warranty ensures that the battery will meet minimum energy throughput and capacity requirements. It also accounts for the normal degradation of lithium-ion battery cells over time. Key conditions of the warranty include:
Trinabess, through its Power Cube batteries, offers a robust solution for solar energy storage with features like compact size, scalability, and versatility for both indoor and outdoor installations. While the initial cost can be significant, the long-term benefits and reliable warranty make it a worthy investment for those looking to enhance their solar energy systems. For the latest pricing and detailed specifications, it is recommended to contact Trinabess directly.