Tigo EI User manual

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Tigo EI
Residential Solar Solution
US Installation Manual (w/ATS 50A)

©20231012 Tigo Energy Inc. 002-00150-00 1.1 | www.tigoenergy.com
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability
The information, recommendations, descriptions, and safety disclosures in this document are
based on Tigo Energy, Inc.’s (“Tigo”) experience and judgment and may not cover all
contingencies. If further information is required, consult a Tigo representative. Sale of the
product shown in this document is subject to the terms and conditions outlined in Tigo’s Limited
Warranty, Terms and Conditions, and any other contractual agreements between Tigo and the
purchaser.
THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS, WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR
MERCHANTABILITY, OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFICALLY SET OUT IN ANY
EXISTING CONTRACT BETWEEN THE PARTIES. ANY SUCH CONTRACT STATES THE
ENTIRE OBLIGATION OF TIGO. THE CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT SHALL NOT
BECOME PART OF, OR MODIFY ANY CONTRACT BETWEEN, THE PARTIES.
In no event will Tigo be responsible to the purchaser or user in contract, in tort (including
negligence), strict liability or otherwise for any special, indirect, incidental, exemplary, reliance
or consequential damage or loss whatsoever, including but not limited to injury to persons,
damage or loss of use of property, equipment or power systems, loss of profit, cost of capital,
loss of power, additional expenses in the use of existing power facilities, or claims against the
purchaser or user by its customers resulting from the use of the information, recommendations
and descriptions contained herein. The information contained in this document is subject to
change in Tigo’s sole discretion and without notice.
Document Version History
Version
Date
Changes
1.0
20230609
Initial release
1.1
20231012
Added IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION and corrected
the name and shutdown description in the Rapid Shutdown
Switch section.

Contents
Overview ......................................................................................................................................1
This Manual...............................................................................................................................2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION...............................................................................................3
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS ......................................................................................................3
Pre-Installation..............................................................................................................................6
Location ....................................................................................................................................6
Component Layout .....................................................................................................................6
Component Dimensions ..............................................................................................................7
Wiring Overview ........................................................................................................................7
The EI Inverter .............................................................................................................................8
Box Contents .............................................................................................................................8
Enclosure Overview....................................................................................................................8
MAC ID ..................................................................................................................................8
DC Disconnect and Enclosure Knockouts...................................................................................9
Status Indicators.....................................................................................................................9
Mounting.................................................................................................................................10
Communications Connections....................................................................................................11
Power Connections...................................................................................................................15
Grounding Points ..................................................................................................................15
Wiring..................................................................................................................................16
Rapid Shutdown Switch ............................................................................................................20
The Energy Meter........................................................................................................................22
Mounting.................................................................................................................................22
Inverter Connections ................................................................................................................22
Power Connections...................................................................................................................23
Current Transformer Connections ..............................................................................................24
LED Indicators .........................................................................................................................25
Power Status LED .................................................................................................................25
L1/L2 Phase Status LED.........................................................................................................25
Reset Button............................................................................................................................25
The EI Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)........................................................................................26
Box Contents ...........................................................................................................................26

Enclosure Overview..................................................................................................................26
Mounting.................................................................................................................................27
Wiring.....................................................................................................................................28
Backup Load Connections ......................................................................................................28
Grid Connections ..................................................................................................................29
Inverter Connections.............................................................................................................30
The EI Battery.............................................................................................................................31
Box Contents ...........................................................................................................................31
Enclosure Overview..................................................................................................................32
Place and Prepare ....................................................................................................................32
Connect to the Inverter ............................................................................................................35
Add Batteries...........................................................................................................................37
Status Indicators......................................................................................................................41
Forced Start/Shutdown.............................................................................................................42
TAP and TS4 MLPE ......................................................................................................................43
Install the Tigo Access Point (TAP) ............................................................................................43
Install TS4 MLPE ......................................................................................................................46
Commissioning............................................................................................................................48
Check Connections ....................................................................................................................48
Power On the System ...............................................................................................................48
Run the Tigo Energy Intelligence App ........................................................................................49
Set System Info....................................................................................................................49
Select Equipment..................................................................................................................50
Configure Layout ..................................................................................................................54
Configure Communication......................................................................................................58
Set Up System Access ...........................................................................................................58
Reference ...................................................................................................................................59
Error Codes .............................................................................................................................59
Inverter Warning Codes ........................................................................................................59
Inverter Fault Codes .............................................................................................................60
System Fault Codes...............................................................................................................61
Decommissioning .....................................................................................................................62
Maintenance ............................................................................................................................62

Specifications...........................................................................................................................62
Warranty.................................................................................................................................62
Customer Support .......................................................................................................................63
Appendix A – UL 1741 PCS CRD Section 208 Information................................................................64
Integrations.............................................................................................................................64
Time of Use.............................................................................................................................65
Self-Consumption.....................................................................................................................66
Backup....................................................................................................................................66
Zero Export .............................................................................................................................67
Appendix B – Configuring HECO Requirements...............................................................................68

Overview
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Overview
The Tigo EI Residential Solar Solution optimizes home energy consumption based on rate plans
and today’s energy needs. It’s built with the following components:
1. EI Inverter – A 3.8 kW or 7.6 kW hybrid inverter may be installed grid-tied only or as
part of an energy storage system (ESS) when paired with up to four Tigo EI batteries.
Energy Meter – This unit monitors energy generated by the system and supplied by
the grid.
2. TS4 MLPE – Tigo’s PV module-level power electronic (MLPE) components optimize solar
module performance and provide module-level monitoring and rapid shutdown. A Tigo
Access Point (TAP) with a wired connection to the inverter communicates with TS4
components wirelessly.
3. EI Battery – Up to four lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) EI batteries are designed for use
specifically with the EI solution.
4. EI Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) – The ATS senses grid loss and safely switches
from grid + solar/battery power to solar/battery power only.
5. The Tigo Energy Intelligence platform and mobile app enables easy system
commissioning and provides comprehensive ongoing visibility into system and module
performance.

Overview – This Manual
EI Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 2
This Manual
This manual provides instructions for installing the following components of a complete Tigo EI
Residential Solution:
•EI Inverter
•Energy Meter
•EI ATS 50A
•EI Battery
•TS4 MLPE
If using
an ATS 200A, refer to the EI
Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual
(w/ATS
200A) on the tigoenergy.com Downloads page.
Special safety notifications in this manual are marked as follows:
DANGER!
A situation involves risk of death or personal injury
.
CAUTION!
A situation risks damage to equipment or voiding warranty
.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION – SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Together, the Tigo EI Inverter with the provided rapid shutdown switch and TS4-A-O/S/F/2F
MLPE enable a photovoltaic rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) as defined by NFPA 70, National
Electrical Code (NEC).
Pushing the rapid shutdown switch button disconnects power to the inverter power-line
communication (PLC) transmitter and any installed Tigo Access Points (TAP)s. This causes TS4
rapid shutdown devices to attenuate each solar module’s DC output to below 30 V within 30
seconds per rapid shutdown requirements.
DANGER!
Pulling the switch
button out restores power connections to the transmitter and TAPs
and returns the PV system to normal operation.
If not installed with TS4-A-O/S/F/2F MLPE connected to all solar modules:
WARNING — THIS PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN EQUIPMENT (PVRSE) DOES NOT
PERFORM ALL OF THE FUNCTIONS OF A COMPLETE PHOTOVOLTAIC RAPID SHUTDOWN
SYSTEM (PVRSS). THIS PVRSE MUST BE INSTALLED WITH OTHER EQUIPMENT TO FORM A
COMPLETE PVRSS THAT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF NEC (NFPA 70) SECTION 690.12
FOR CONTROLLED CONDUCTORS OUTSIDE THE ARRAY. OTHER EQUIPMENT INSTALLED
IN OR ON THIS PV SYSTEM MAY ADVERSELY AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE PVRSS. IT
IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSTALLER TO ENSURE THAT THE COMPLETED PV
SYSTEM MEETS THE RAPID SHUTDOWN FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THIS EQUIPMENT
MUST BE INSTALLED ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS.
In addition:
•This manual contains important instructions for installation and maintenance of the Tigo
EI Inverter, ATS 200A, and EI Battery.
•Installation must be performed by trained professionals only. Tigo does not assume
liability for loss or damage resulting from improper handling, installation, or misuse of
products.
•Before installing or using the Tigo system, please read all instructions and warning
markings on the components and this installation manual.
•Check specifications for all components in the Specifications section of this manual.
•Components must operate within the technical specifications listed in their data sheets.
•Use only copper conductors rated 75 °C or higher. Do not use fine-stranded conductors.
•Unused conduit openings must be properly sealed and connected conduit must use
appropriate fittings. Tigo EI product enclosures are rated IP65.
•Always wear appropriate PPE and use insulated tools.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION – SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
EI Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 4
•This product could expose the user to chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer. For more information refer to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
•The inverter has no isolation transformer and it must be installed with an ungrounded
PV array in accordance with NEC 690.35 and 690.43.
•To reduce risk of fire and shock hazard, install this device with strict adherence to
National Electric Code (NEC) ANSI/NFPA 70 and/or local electrical codes. When the
photovoltaic array is exposed to light, it supplies a DC voltage to the Tigo TS4 units and
the output voltage may be as high as the PV module open circuit voltage (VOC) when
connected to the module. The installer should use the same caution when handling
electrical cables from a PV module with or without the TS4 units attached.
•TS4-A-F and TS4-A-2F MLPE are shipped in the OFF position and will measure 0.6V at
the output when the keep-alive signal is not present.
•Do not operate Tigo components if they have been physically damaged. Check existing
cables and connectors, ensuring they are in good condition and appropriate in rating. Do
not operate Tigo TS4 components with damaged or substandard wiring or connectors.
•Do not connect or disconnect TS4s under load. Turning off the inverter and/or the Tigo
products may not reduce this risk. Internal capacitors within the inverter can remain
charged for several minutes after disconnecting all power sources. Verify capacitors
have discharged by measuring voltage across inverter terminals prior to disconnecting
wiring if service is required. Wait 30 seconds after rapid shutdown activation before
disconnecting DC cables or turning off the DC disconnect.
•Connectors from different manufacturers cannot be mated with each other.
•All AC and DC connections must use provided ferrules installed with an appropriate
ferrule crimping tool.
•The capacity of a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) EI Battery module is 3.3 kWh and the
nominal voltage 51.2 V.
DANGER!
The inverter DC disconnect switch must be OFF for five minutes before opening the
inverter cover.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION – SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
EI Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 5
These symbols may appear on Tigo enclosures:
Risk
of electrical shock.
Risk
of burns.
Check the operating instructions.
Caution, the inverter may retain high voltage for up to five minutes after
disconnection.
Avoid tampering.
Observe caution.
Grounding connection.

Pre-Installation – Location
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Pre-Installation
Location
EI enclosures are NEMA 4/IP65 rated for indoor and outdoor exposure. To optimize
performance and extend service, locate the enclosures:
•In a well-ventilated, easily accessible location.
•On a flat surface against a solid wall with ≤15° tilt.
•Sheltered from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. The ambient temperature is
ideally below 50 °C.
•Away from antennas or other sources of electromechanical interference.
•Above potential flooding.
Component Layout
Follow these guidelines when planning how to mount components:
Inverter
•As close as possible to the main service panel to minimize AC voltage drop.
•At least 3 m/36 in. above the ground.
•With a minimum 300 mm (12 in.) clearance around the top and sides.
Rapid shutdown switch
•Adjacent the inverter and service entrance.
•Clearly visible and accessible to first responders and maintenance workers.
Energy Meter
•In an AC load center or other outdoor enclosure adjacent the inverter and main panel.
ATS
•Adjacent the inverter and main panel.
•With a minimum 300 mm (12 in.) clearance around all sides.
Battery
•On level ground.
•With a minimum 914 mm (36 in.) side and top clearance from other system
enclosures/objects.

Pre-Installation – Component Dimensions
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Component Dimensions
Plan on accommodating the following approximate dimensions (width/height/depth):
Component
Width/Height/Depth
Weight
Inverter 3.8/7.6 kW
400 x 570 x 170 mm (15.75 x 22 x 6.7 in.)
14.6kg (32.3 lb.)
Energy Meter
54.1 x 87.8 x 52 mm (2.1 x 3.5 x 2.0 in.)
0.2kg (0.44 lb.)
ATS 50A
275 x 480 x 105 mm (10.8 x 18.9 x 4.1 in.)
15kg (33 lb.)
Battery
650 x 1160 x 320 mm (25.6 x 45.7 x 12.6 in.)
140kg (308.6 lb.)
Wiring Overview
The EI system can operate on 208 or 240 V at 60 Hz. For detailed wiring instructions, refer to
the following EI Inverter, EI ATS, TAP and TS4 MLPE, and EI Battery sections.

The EI Inverter – Box Contents
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The EI Inverter
This section includes:
•Box Contents
•Enclosure Overview
•Mounting
•Communications Connections
•Power Connections
•Rapid Shutdown Switch
For detailed specifications, download the EI Inverter data sheet from the tigoenergy.com
Downloads page.
Box Contents
The EI Inverter box includes:
•EI Inverter
•Quick Start Guide
•Mounting bracket
•Tigo Access Point (TAP)
•Rapid shutdown label
•Rapid shutdown switch
•DC wire ferrules (3.8 kW: 12, 7.6 kW)
•AC wire ferrules (5)
•3-pin plug for RS-485 Energy Meter communications connection
•Grounding ring terminal
•Hex-head self-tapping screws (inverter mounting, 5)
•Philips-head screw (rapid shutdown switch mounting, 4)
•White wall anchors (inverter, 5)
•Green wall anchors (Rapid shutdown switch, 4)
•WiFi antenna
•Cellular antenna (only with cell-enabled models)
•.875in OD knockout for 1/2in plug with nut
•1.375” OD knockout for 1in plug (2)
•1.375” OD knockout for 1in plug with nut (2)
Enclosure Overview
MAC ID
A label with the inverter’s MAC ID and a tigoenergy.com
QR code is located on the left side below the specifications
label.

The EI Inverter – Enclosure Overview
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DC Disconnect and Enclosure Knockouts
Status Indicators
The status indicator LEDs in the center of the inverter front panel show the EI system’s current
operating conditions.
Symbol
Action
Description
Power
Continuous
Feed in grid
Flashing 3 sec. on/1 sec. off
DC on/AC off
Flashing 1 sec. on/3 sec. off
DC off/AC on
Flashing 0.5 sec. on/0.5 sec. off
Checking
Flashing 2 sec. on/2 sec. off
Standby mode
Off
Disconnected
Communications
Continuous
4G/WiFi, local WiFi ok
Flashing 0.5 sec. on/0.5 sec. off
Local WiFi connecting
Flashing 1 sec. on/1 sec. off
4G/WiFi failure, local WiFi ok
Flashing 1 sec. on/3 sec. off
Local WiFi failure, 4G/WiFi ok
Off
Failure

The EI Inverter – Mounting
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Battery
Continuous
Operating normally
Flashing 1 sec. on/3 sec. off
Low charge state
Flashing 0.5 sec. on/0.5 sec. off
Fault detected
Off
Disconnected
Fault
Continuous with audible alarm
Arc fault
Continuous
Fault
Flashing 1 sec. on/1 sec. off
Warning
Off
No faults detected
Mounting
To mount the inverter:
1. Choose a location on a plumb wall with adequate clearance, free from direct sun and
precipitation.
2. Affix the inverter top bracket using screws appropriate for the wall surface.

The EI Inverter – Communications Connections
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3. Hang the inverter on the bracket and affix the bottom bracket.
Communications Connections
CAUTION!
You must
make communications connections to the TAP (if used), Energy Meter,
and battery
for the EI system to operate as an energy storage system (ESS).
Inverter communications connections include:
•An antenna to connect to a WiFi or cell network.
•A wired connection to the TAP (if used).
•Wired connections to the Energy Meter and battery.
To connect an antenna:
•Attach the provided WiFi or cell antenna to the appropriate inverter
ANT 1 (left, WiFi) or
ANT 2 (right, cell) port on the bottom of the inverter.

The EI Inverter – Communications Connections
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To connect to a TAP when used with TS4-O/S/M MLPE:
1. Prepare a 4-wire or CAT5/6 cable:
•Shielded if running next to PV conductors
•20 – 18 AWG or CAT5/6 twisted pairs
•Solid core
•Cable outside diameter (OD) ≤9 mm (.35 in.)
2. Connect the cable to the left side of the nearest TAP using either the quick-connect (4-
wire) or the terminal block (4-wire or CAT5/6).
3. At the inverter, terminate the wires at the 4-pin TAP plug from bottom to top: –, +,
Data B, Data A.

The EI Inverter – Communications Connections
EI Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 13
To connect to the Energy Meter:
1. Prepare a 3-wire shielded, twisted pair, 24-18 AWG RS-485 cable.
2. Locate the 3-pin plug included in the EI Inverter
Accessories bag.
3. At the inverter, connect the RS-485 wires to the
A , G , and B terminals on the 3-pin plug
and install the plug.
4. At the Energy Meter, connect the RS-485 wires to the
G , B , and A terminals.
Inverter
Energy Meter

The EI Inverter – Communications Connections
EI Residential Solar Solution US Installation Manual | www.tigoenergy.com | Help Center 14
To connect to the battery:
1. In the battery’s inverter connection wirebox on the left side of the enclosure, plug a
CAT5/6 cable into the
COM INV terminal.
2. At the inverter, plug the cable into the battery COM terminal.
Battery
Inverter
To connect COM cables to multiple batteries, refer to the EI Battery section.

The EI Inverter – Power Connections
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Power Connections
DANGER!
Ensure the inverter DC disconnect switch is OFF before making connections.
Grounding Points
Equipment grounding conductor (EGC):
Grounding electrode conductor (GEC):