Solar Assistant is a monitoring and control platform for off-grid and hybrid solar inverters. It runs on an Orange Pi or Raspberry Pi controller, giving real-time data, dynamic graphs and remote access through a web browser, Android app or iPhone app, without any monthly subscription and without needing the cloud for local access.

Key features

• Real-time monitoring, PV generation, battery state of charge, load, and grid import/export.
• Historical data, dynamic graphs built from stored readings.
• Multi-platform access, available via web browser, Android app and iPhone app.
• No subscription fees, local access works without an internet connection.
• Remote access, available over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Broad inverter compatibility, connects via RS232 and RS485 to a wide range of inverter brands.

Product overview

The platform runs on an Orange Pi 3 LTS or Raspberry Pi 4 controller, with the software pre-loaded on the SD card and ready to use once wired to the inverter's RS232 or RS485 port. Standard inverter connections need no further configuration.

One installation can monitor multiple inverters and batteries at the same time, storing data locally on the SD card for up to 10 years. MQTT support allows integration with home automation systems, including Home Assistant.

Compatible inverter brands

Voltacon, Axpert, MPP Solar, Kodak, Growatt, Deye, Sunsynk, Solis, SolaX, Sungrow, FOXESS and Phocos are among the supported brands, with a fuller list available on the Solar Assistant website.

Applications

• Monitoring and control of off-grid solar systems.
• Performance tracking for hybrid solar and battery storage installations.
• Commissioning and remote support for professional installers.

Installation notes

An Orange Pi 3 LTS or Raspberry Pi 4 with Solar Assistant pre-loaded is required (sold separately as a complete kit). Connect it to the inverter's RS232 or RS485 port with the appropriate communication cable; a stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection is needed for remote access.