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Installing Kora with DC Solar (PV Integration)

Kora supports DC-coupled solar through Powerblocks hybrid inverters. DC solar does not connect directly to the Smart Panel. The inverter manages PV and batteries, while Kora manages loads, grid interaction, and backup behavior safely and compliantly.

Written by Paige Tranchina
Updated over 2 months ago

Code Reference (NEC)

Installations must comply with all applicable codes and local AHJ requirements, including:

  • NEC 690 – Solar Photovoltaic Systems

  • NEC 706 – Energy Storage Systems

  • NEC 705 – Interconnection at inverter output

  • NEC 110.3(B) – Manufacturer instructions (Powerblocks)

System Overview

In a DC solar configuration, energy flows through the system in the following order:

PV Array → Hybrid Inverter → Battery Stack → Kora Smart Panel → Home Loads / Grid

Key Installation Principles

• DC conductors never enter the Kora Smart Panel
• All DC PV wiring terminates at the hybrid inverter
• The Smart Panel interfaces only on the AC side
• Communication between the inverter and Smart Panel is required for proper operation

Equipment Requirements

• Powerblocks hybrid inverter (DC-coupled capable)
• Compatible battery stack (per inverter manufacturer specs)
• Utility interconnection approval (if grid-connected)
• Active internet connection for commissioning and monitoring

Installation Responsibilities

Hybrid Inverter (DC Side)

The inverter is responsible for:

• MPPT control
• DC voltage and current regulation
• Battery charge and discharge
• DC-side safety and protection

Follow the inverter manufacturer’s installation manual for:

• PV string sizing
• MPPT voltage and current limits
• DC disconnects and grounding
• Battery installation and wiring

Kora Smart Panel (AC Side)

The Smart Panel is responsible for:

• Load monitoring and control
• Grid import and export measurement
• Backup orchestration during outages
• Circuit-level prioritization

The inverter’s AC output is connected to the Smart Panel using the designated battery or inverter input per the Smart Panel wiring diagram.

Communications and Control

Communication between the hybrid inverter and Kora Smart Panel is required for:

• Net energy calculations
• Battery-aware load management
• Backup coordination
• Accurate monitoring in the Kora app

Follow the Powerblocks communication wiring instructions and ensure:

• Communication cables are routed through low-voltage pathways
• LV wiring is separated from high-voltage conductors
• All connections are secure before energizing

Commissioning Checklist

Before leaving the site, verify the following:

Inverter Verification

• PV production is visible in the inverter interface
• Battery charging behavior is confirmed
• No inverter faults or warnings are present

Smart Panel Verification

• Smart Panel powers on normally
• Correct net import and export values are displayed
• Battery and solar activity are visible in the Kora app
• Communication status shows connected

Common Installer Mistakes to Avoid

• Routing DC conductors into the Smart Panel
• Assuming the Smart Panel manages PV generation
• Skipping inverter-to-panel communications
• Commissioning the inverter but not the Smart Panel
• Leaving the system without verified app visibility

Final Notes

In DC solar configurations, the inverter controls generation and storage. Kora controls loads, backup behavior, and grid interaction. Keeping these responsibilities clearly separated is critical for safety, performance, and code compliance.

Do not energize or commission the system until both the inverter and Smart Panel have been fully verified.

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