01 / List what must keep running
Record equipment, running power, starting peaks, operating hours and phase. Separate continuous loads, loads allowing short transfers and deferrable loads. A label such as hospital or factory is not enough: circuits within one site have different requirements.
02 / Gather bills and operating data
Households can start with bills, day/night habits and existing PV. Businesses should provide 12 months of bills and interval demand, tariffs and shift changes where available. If detailed data is missing, metering may be needed. Monthly energy does not establish instantaneous power.
03 / Describe outages and the site
Record outage frequency, typical and longest duration, and voltage instability. Include location, electrical drawings, generators/UPS, available space, temperatures, access and connectivity. Photos help but do not replace an electrical site assessment.
04 / Agree objectives and scope
Rank cost savings, backup, fuel reduction and expansion; state timing, budget range and future demand. Assign design, supply, installation, approvals, commissioning and maintenance. Document assumptions, exclusions and acceptance criteria so proposals can be compared on scope.
Further reading & references
SMA · Solar batteries: planning & installationReferences explain general principles, not brand partnerships, compatibility or project certification. Site-specific design and local requirements apply.