Manufacturer Background: About Fronius
Fronius International GmbH, founded in 1945 in Austria, is known for its high-quality solar inverters and innovative renewable energy solutions. Entering the solar market in 1992, Fronius quickly established itself as a trusted brand in Australia with products like the Primo and Symo inverter series. With the launch of the Reserva battery, Fronius now offers an integrated solution for both solar generation and storage.
Fronius Reserva Technical Specifications
The Fronius Reserva is a high-voltage, DC-coupled home battery system that utilizes lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells. Its modular tower design allows for scalable storage capacities, making it ideal for a range of applications in Australia. Key specifications include:
- Capacity & Modular Design: Usable storage capacity ranges from 6.3 kWh to 15.8 kWh per tower (2–5 modules of ~3.15 kWh each), expandable up to ~63 kWh with four towers in parallel.
- Battery Chemistry & Efficiency: Employs LFP technology, ensuring high safety, thermal stability, and round-trip efficiency of about 90–95%.
- Power & Inverter Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Fronius GEN24 Plus hybrid inverters. Single-phase installations (e.g., Primo GEN24 Plus) are suited for smaller capacities, while three-phase (Symo GEN24 Plus) supports larger systems.
- Backup & Black-Start Capability: Offers backup power during outages with optional hardware, and is black-start capable, allowing solar recharging even during grid failures.
- Physical Specs: Features a slim tower design (17.6 cm deep) with varying height and weight based on configuration. Rated IP65 for indoor or sheltered outdoor installation and operable from -20 °C to 55 °C.
- Warranty & Monitoring: Comes with a 10-year warranty (guaranteeing at least 80% capacity retention) and integrates with Fronius Solar.web for unified monitoring.
Specification Table
| Specification | Fronius Reserva Details |
|---|---|
| Usable Capacity (per tower) | 6.3 kWh / 9.5 kWh / 12.6 kWh / 15.8 kWh (2–5 modules); expandable up to ~63 kWh (4 towers) |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) – safe, efficient, and long-lasting |
| Modular Design | Plug-and-play modules with no extra cabling required |
| Continuous Power | DC-coupled system; output limited by compatible Fronius hybrid inverter (typically 5–10 kW per tower) |
| Round-Trip Efficiency | Estimated at 90–95% due to minimal conversion loss |
| Operating Environment | -20 °C to 55 °C; 5–95% humidity; up to 2000 m altitude; IP65 rated |
| Dimensions & Weight | Varies from ~860×780×176 mm (6.3 kWh) to ~1610×780×176 mm (15.8 kWh); weight between 86.5–187 kg |
| Compatible Inverters | Fronius Primo GEN24 Plus (single-phase) & Symo GEN24 Plus (three-phase) |
| Backup Power | Supported with optional Backup Controller & Switch; black-start capable |
| Warranty | 10 years with ≥80% capacity retention guarantee |
| * Actual performance may vary based on system configuration and installation conditions. | |
Australian Market Pricing for the Reserva
While official Australian pricing is still being finalized, early estimates indicate that the smaller 6.3 kWh model may be priced around AUD $6,000 and the larger 15.8 kWh model near AUD $12,000 (hardware only). These prices are competitive with other premium batteries in the market, and installation costs – plus optional backup hardware – will be additional. Various state-based loans, rebates, and financing options are available to help offset these costs.
Benefits & Advantages of the Fronius Reserva
- Seamless Integration: Optimized for Fronius GEN24 Plus hybrid inverters, ensuring a unified system with easy monitoring via Solar.web.
- High Efficiency: DC-coupled design minimizes energy losses, maximizing the usable solar energy stored in the battery.
- Modular & Expandable: Start with a capacity that meets current needs and expand as energy demands increase.
- Robust Safety & Longevity: LFP battery chemistry and a 10-year warranty with 80% capacity retention ensure durability and peace of mind.
- Backup Capabilities: Provides reliable backup during outages with optional backup hardware and black-start capability.
- Complete Ecosystem: Integrates with EV chargers, smart energy management, and other Fronius products for a holistic energy solution.
Integration with Solar Systems in Australia
The Fronius Reserva is designed for seamless integration into new or upgraded solar systems. It works exclusively with Fronius GEN24 Plus hybrid inverters:
- Inverter Compatibility: Designed for both single-phase (Primo GEN24 Plus) and three-phase (Symo GEN24 Plus) setups.
- System Sizing: For a ~10 kWh battery, a solar array of 5–8 kW is ideal, while larger capacities (12.6–15.8 kWh) pair best with arrays of 8–10+ kW.
- Installation Considerations: The compact, floor-mounted design fits in tight spaces. Ensure a stable, level surface and proper ventilation. Additional hardware (Fronius Backup Controller) is needed for backup functionality.
- Single-Phase vs Three-Phase: Single-phase installations suit smaller capacities; three-phase systems can maximize the battery’s potential with larger models.
Who Should Consider the Fronius Reserva?
The Fronius Reserva is ideal for:
- Residential Users: Homeowners looking to boost self-consumption, gain backup power, and integrate a fully compatible solar storage solution.
- New Solar Installations: Those installing a new Fronius GEN24 inverter system can seamlessly add the Reserva for an optimized setup.
- High Energy Users & Small Businesses: Especially for three-phase systems requiring expanded storage capacity.
- Quality Seekers: Buyers willing to invest in a premium product backed by a trusted brand with comprehensive support.
Financing & Incentives in Australia
Several financing options and government incentives are available to help mitigate the upfront costs of the Fronius Reserva:
- State-Based Loans & Rebates: Victoria offers interest-free loans, while NSW and NT provide attractive rebates or grants.
- Retailer Programs & VPPs: Some energy retailers offer incentives for joining Virtual Power Plant schemes, further reducing costs.
- Installer Financing: Accredited installers may offer tailored financing plans or package deals that combine solar and battery installations.
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
The Fronius Reserva Battery is a state-of-the-art solar storage solution that delivers high efficiency, modular expandability, and robust backup capabilities. With seamless integration into Fronius inverter systems, it provides a complete, reliable energy solution tailored for the diverse needs of Australian homes and small businesses. Although it comes at a premium, available financing and state incentives make it a compelling choice for those aiming for energy independence and improved solar self-consumption.
Key Takeaways:
- Trusted brand: Fronius brings decades of expertise in solar technology.
- High efficiency: DC-coupled design minimizes energy loss.
- Modular and scalable: Configurable to suit various energy needs.
- Backup functionality: Provides reliable power during outages with black-start capability.
- Competitive pricing aided by government incentives and financing options.