An interview with Paul Cammidge from PCCC on how they are using the Teltonika Routers in conjunction with Powerpilot software to optimise solar and connected Battery Energy Storage Systems. 

“Tell us about PCCC”.

PCCC provides a variety of personalised Software Development, Networking and automation services tailored to meet our customers’ specific needs. With 25+ years of experience in the South African market, PCCC has expertise in Linux, Network and Security-related consulting services for small, medium and large-scale businesses. 

“What is the Powerpilot software?”

In 2023, we launched a new product, Powerpilot, which monitors and optimises inverters. The system collects and analyses power consumption and solar yield patterns and combines this information with load-shedding forecasts and weather forecasts to optimise inverters. The aim is to discharge batteries overnight so that there is sufficient capacity to store excess solar energy the following day, while also ensuring that your batteries have sufficient energy during load-shedding.  Every 2 minutes, the system combines the current battery State-of-Charge with historical and predicted data to decide whether your inverter should charge or discharge your batteries. 

“How did you manage to bridge the communication gap between the software and the different inverters?" 

We experimented with different methods of communicating with the inverters. While Victron inverters can normally be interfaced with through VRM, we found that the best way of communicating with Sunsynk/Dye inverters was through the RS232 and RS485 ports. 

Our early installations were based on Raspberry Pi or Beaglebone boards, with external serial adapters.  We soon realised that home Internet connections were often unreliable, so we installed RUT200 with SIM cards.  In most cases, the LTE networks were more reliable than home Wi-Fi. 

The next logical step was to combine the RUT200 with the Raspberry Pi. The TRB145 and TRB142 were the ideal solutions. The software that is installed on these devices can handle most scenarios.  In addition, using the Teltonika SDK, we were able to recompile our software to run directly on these devices, providing a neat, low-power solution. 

“What was the benefit of using the Teltonika solution in the long run?”

By using the TRB142 and TRB145, we need less equipment on site.  

When we were using the Raspberry Pi, we configured an IPsec tunnel back to our servers for remote support.  We can now use the Teltonika RMS platform to remotely support and monitor all the devices centrally.  This is easier, more convenient and simpler to configure than the IPsec tunnels. 

The complete solution can be neatly mounted in a DB board, next to the inverter, with an external LTE antenna placed somewhere convenient. 

The time taken to install a new system has been greatly reduced. We no longer need to assemble the board in a case with an SD card and Wi-Fi adapter, USB hub, serial adapters, etc.  We simply open the box, update the firmware, install a SIM card, and install our software. The most time-consuming part is making the RS458 cable.  The lower power consumption of the TRB142/145 was ideal. The Teltonika software can conveniently monitor the LTE modem and reset it if it stops responding.  We can also manage the device using SMS messages. 

“Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?”

We should have considered these Teltonika devices earlier.  We also did not plan on using RMS or the SMS functionality, but these are worthwhile additions.  We have 3 devices in Mpumalanga, which is a 2-hour drive if something goes wrong, so being able to remotely support them is very helpful.  

“What advice would you give to someone new to the industry?”

Start with Teltonika as it has a variety of devices that are cost-effective and easy to manage remotely.  Look at the different models and see if there is a model that suits your requirements, and then test it with your application. 

“How did you find the support from us (MiRO) during this initial phase?”

When we realised that the TRB145 was well suited for our application, MiRO only had one of these in stock.  By the time we had tested this device, MiRO was able to obtain additional stock. The specific models that we chose don’t appear to be very popular, although they are ideal for our application.  MiRO has increased its stock of these models to accommodate us.  MiRO has been very helpful in supplying the necessary Teltonika equipment for this project, even if it required a special order from their supplier.  It is comforting to deal with a company that can accommodate your specific needs.  

For more information on PCCC, you can visit www.pccc.co.za and www.powerpilot.co.za.

You can purchase your Teltonika solutions directly online at www.miro.co.za or get in touch with our sales team at sales@miro.co.za or 012 657 0960.