The 5×4 Hayes Lane Project in East Melbourne is a four-story solar powered inner-city dwelling built on just 5 x 4 meters.
The entire project has been designed, built and powered with passive and active eco-driven processes, materials and performance considerations firmly in mind.
Powering the house is four kilowatt solar power system featuring Yingli Solar panels and Enphase microinverters. The system is monitored by Enphase Enlighten, which enables system owners to track their energy production, consumption and monitor system health via a user-friendly interface.
“Generating power on site was one of the key components and goals of the 5×4 Hayes Lane Project,” said Ralph Alphonso, Owner and Project Manager of Five x Four.
“It was important for us to maximise the energy output for our tiny footprint, and the performance specifications of both Yingli Solar panels and Enphase microinverters enabled us to do just that. The combination of these two products gave us flexibility in the design to balance liveability and high energy production.”
The solar panels have been installed over three different angles including six panels installed vertically on the northern façade of the building, made possible with the use of micro-inverters.
“Enphase is delighted to be part of this iconic residential development that sets a benchmark for sustainable living through thoughtful design. Through the Enlighten platform, the occupants will be able to gather insights on their energy generation – and soon consumption – through an engaging interface,” said Nathan Dunn, Managing Director at Enphase Energy Asia-Pacific.
“In addition, Five x Four is set to be one of the first homes in the world to generate, store and control its own power using the revolutionary Enphase Home Energy Solution including the Enphase Storage System.”
In September, Enphase announced Australia will the first market to be shipped the Enphase AC Battery energy storage system.
Five x Four’s estimated peak cooling load on a 40°C day is estimated to be under 3kW. Currently the system is exporting surplus electricity to the grid, but this will change with the installation of the Enphase Storage System, with much of the surplus to be stored for use at night or during unfavourable conditions.
Further information on the 5×4 Hayes Lane Project can be viewed here.
Related:
Micro, String And Central Inverters
Australian Home Battery Storage Guide
