GridBuddy String Inverters, Hybrid Systems & Sunsynk Battery Storage

As solar installations continue to grow across the UK residential sector, installers and housebuilders are placing greater emphasis on system efficiency, scalability, installation speed and grid compliance. The GridBuddy inverter range, combined with Sunsynk hybrid technology and LiFePO₄ battery storage, delivers a reliable, cost-effective platform built specifically for UK residential installations and energy-efficient new build developments.

Together, these products form a complete system architecture, enabling contractors to deploy everything from entry-level residential PV systems through to fully integrated solar and battery storage solutions.

GridBuddy String Inverters

GridBuddy string inverters are engineered to convert DC electricity generated by photovoltaic panels into stable, grid-synchronised AC power for domestic electrical systems. Available in 1.0kW, 2.5kW and 3.6kW outputs, the range aligns closely with the most common UK residential PV system sizes, making it well suited to both retrofit installations and new housing developments.

Delivering up to 97.5% conversion efficiency, GridBuddy inverters minimise energy loss at the point of conversion, while Advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) ensures solar arrays consistently operate at their optimal voltage and current levels with MPPT efficiency exceeding 99%. The result is maximum solar generation across the day, improved performance in the low irradiance conditions typical of the UK climate and a higher overall system yield.

Many residential installations involve multiple roof orientations, partial shading or varying panel strings. GridBuddy inverters support single or dual MPPT inputs, allowing installers to separate east and west facing arrays, optimise performance across different roof pitches and reduce the impact of shading. The 2.5kW model supports up to 3.3kW PV input with a maximum input voltage of 550V, while the 3.6kW model supports up to 5.4kW of PV input for larger residential installations.

Designed with installer efficiency in mind, GridBuddy inverters are compact, lightweight (approximately 6–8kg) and straightforward to commission. Optional Wi-Fi monitoring dongles allow homeowners and installers to track solar generation and system performance in real time.

Integrated Solar Generation and Energy Storage

For installers looking to deliver higher value systems, the GridBuddy Combo range integrates solar inverter technology with lithium battery storage in a single, seamless solution.

The flagship GridBuddy Combo 3.6kW Hybrid Inverter combines a 3.6kW hybrid inverter with an integrated 3.8kWh lithium battery, UPS backup functionality and expandable battery capacity. Supporting a maximum DC input of 4.5kW, a battery charge current of up to 60A and a discharge current of up to 80A, the system stores surplus solar energy during daylight hours and releases it during periods of peak demand, significantly improving solar self-consumption and energy independence. Designed specifically for larger homes and energy-efficient new build developments, it offers smart energy management with minimal installation complexity.

Advanced Solar Energy Management

For larger residential systems or more technically demanding installations, the 3.6kW Sunsynk Hybrid Inverter provides a highly flexible power management platform. Allowing simultaneous control of solar generation, battery charging and discharging, grid import and export, and household loads, the Sunsynk prioritises solar energy before drawing from the grid. Key capabilities include high-efficiency DC to AC conversion, smart load prioritisation, battery integration and real-time monitoring via Wi-Fi or GSM.

Sunsynk 5.32kWh Lithium Battery Storage

The Sunsynk 5.32kWh battery module provides scalable energy storage designed for long-term reliability and safety. Operating at 51.2V with a 104Ah capacity, it uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) chemistry – widely recognised for its long cycle life, thermal stability, enhanced safety characteristics and high charge/discharge efficiency. These qualities make it particularly well suited to daily cycling within residential solar storage systems.

Each module includes an integrated Battery Management System (BMS) that monitors and protects individual cells throughout every charge and discharge cycle. The BMS manages voltage balancing, current flow regulation and temperature monitoring, with built-in protection against overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent and overtemperature ensuring safe operation while maximising battery lifespan.

UK Grid Compliance (G98 and G99)

All UK solar installations must comply with Engineering Recommendations G98 and G99, which govern the connection of distributed generation to the electricity network.

G98 covers systems up to 3.68kW per phase, which accounts for the majority of domestic installations. Installers can typically install first and notify the Distribution Network Operator within 28 days, provided the system includes the required protection features. GridBuddy 3.6kW string inverters and hybrid systems are well aligned with these requirements.

G99 applies to larger systems exceeding 3.68kW per phase, including larger residential systems, multi-inverter installations and commercial solar projects, which require prior DNO approval. Sunsynk hybrid inverters offer the configuration flexibility required for these applications.

Built for the UK New Build Market

GridBuddy systems have been developed in partnership with Sunsynk to provide scalable solar storage solutions designed around the specific demands of UK housing developments. For developers and contractors, this means faster installation across multi-plot sites, scalable solar and battery integration, and improved EPC ratings, delivering a future-ready residential energy system that supports the UK’s transition to low carbon housing.

Installer Training and Technical Support

Free hands-on training is available at the E-home Training Hub in Worcester, covering solar system design, hybrid inverter configuration, battery integration, commissioning and monitoring, and UK grid compliance. Come along to see the technology in action and speak with our technical team about your upcoming projects.

For product datasheets, technical support or training availability, get in touch with the GL team. You can also explore the full solar and energy storage range at gl-e.uk/product-category/energy-solar