Mobile solar power generation and storage system and method

Abstract

A method and system for a mobile power generation system is disclosed. The mobile power generation system may include one or more shipping containers that may be pre-wired and pre-configured to simplify on-site configuration and installation. The one or more shipping containers may include a PV subsystem, a battery subsystem, a PCS, control electronics, and the like. The one or more shipping containers may be pre-configured for power transfer and communication between various devices to reduce on-site configuration.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 410,195, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates generally to the field of solar and storage systems. Specifically, this disclosure relates to mobile solar and storage power generation systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0003] This section is intended to introduce various aspects of technology that may be related to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This description is believed to be helpful in providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of certain aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that this section should be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of prior art.

[0004] Electric power is often needed in a variety of situations. In one example, power may be needed even where the power grid is available, such as in situations where additional power may be needed or when the power grid cannot provide power. Another example is power in locations where the power grid does not exist or is not available, such as for temporary operations in remote areas, emergency response, exploration, remote villages, remote communication stations, and remote mining operations, to name a few. One solution is to use generators, such as diesel generators, which can be configured in remote areas. With such generators, power can be provided even in remote locations. Another solution is to install solar panels and battery systems to provide the required power. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In one or more embodiments, a mobile power generation system is disclosed that includes one or more shipping containers configured to house, transport, and / or install a renewable hybrid energy system. The one or more shipping containers include one or both of at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and installation at an installation site, or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at an installation site, a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within the one or more shipping containers, at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at an installation site, a mechanical structure for transporting the at least one PCS within the one or more shipping containers, and at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transportation of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site and configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, a method for transporting, installing, and configuring a mobile power generation system is disclosed. The method includes transporting one or more shipping containers to an installation site, the one or more shipping containers including one or both of: at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and installation at the installation site; or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at the installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within the one or more shipping containers; at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at the installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting the at least one PCS within the one or more shipping containers; and at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transportation of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, and configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector.

[0007] The method further includes removing at least one PV subsystem from the one or more shipping containers, installing the at least one PV subsystem, and electrically connecting a load to the at least one load output connector.

[0008] The present application is further described in the following detailed description with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views of the drawings, by way of non-limiting examples of illustrative implementations. In this regard, the accompanying drawings illustrate only exemplary implementations and therefore should not be considered limiting of the scope of the present disclosure, as it may admit of other equally effective embodiments and applications. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating a high level system architecture for a mobile solar power storage power generation system. [Figure 1B] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1C] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1D] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1E] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1F] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1G] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1H] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1I] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1J] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1K] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1L] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 1M] 1A-1C are exemplary block diagrams illustrating different configurations of containers. [Figure 2A]1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 2B] 1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 2C] 1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 2D] 1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 2E] 1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 2F] 1A-1C illustrate different configurations in which spot power generation can be installed. [Figure 3A] 3A-3B illustrate different central microgrid configurations, including without a generator (FIG. 3A) and with a generator (FIG. 3B). [Figure 3B] 3A-3B illustrate different central microgrid configurations, including without a generator (FIG. 3A) and with a generator (FIG. 3B). [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates a first example of a distributed microgrid configuration. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 illustrates a second example of a distributed microgrid configuration. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sealed container enclosing the BESS subsystem and PCS. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a representation of the container shown in FIG. 5A in an open state. [Figure 5C] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sealed container enclosing the PV subsystem and power conversion system. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a representation of the container shown in FIG. 5C in an open state. [Figure 5E] FIG. 5B shows one side of the exterior of the container shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 5F] FIG. 5D shows one side of the exterior of the container shown in FIG. 5C. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 is a representation of an installed PV subsystem and its connected container. [Figure 6B] FIG. 1 is a representation of an installed PV subsystem and its connected container. [Figure 6C] FIG. 1 is a representation of the container with the door open, the PV subsystem removed, and the PCS placed inside. [Figure 6D] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a PCS that may be incorporated within a PV container. [Figure 6E] FIG. 1 is a representation of a container with the top removed, showing the battery and AC power bus. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 is a representation of a container with the door removed, illustrating three sets of PV subsystems, mounting systems, connectors connecting the mounting systems to the PV subsystems, and the overall structure for each set. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a representation of a container with its door removed, illustrating one set of PV subsystems, mounting systems, connectors connecting the mounting systems to the PV subsystems, and the overall structure for that set, and two additional sets of PV subsystems, slots for the mounting systems, connectors connecting the mounting systems to the PVs (when the mounting systems are inserted into their respective slots), and the overall structure for each set. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a representation of a container with the door and set of PV subsystems illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B removed, showing rails (stored in an upright position during transport) for use by the installation system during installation. [Figure 7D] 7D is a representation similar to FIG. 7C, but with the rail in an installed position for use by the installation system during installation. [Figure 8A] 1 is a series of representations illustrating an exemplary installation of a container or installing a PV subsystem. [Figure 8B] 1 is a series of representations illustrating an exemplary installation of a container or installing a PV subsystem. [Figure 8C] 1 is a series of representations illustrating an exemplary installation of a container or installing a PV subsystem. [Figure 8D] 1 is a series of representations illustrating an exemplary installation of a container or installing a PV subsystem. [Figure 8E] 1 is a series of representations illustrating an exemplary installation of a container or installing a PV subsystem. [Figure 9A] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fully installed PV subsystem showing a modular system that can be used in a variety of situations, such as microgrids or spot generation. [Figure 9B] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a fully installed PV subsystem showing a modular system that can be used in a variety of situations, such as microgrids or spot generation. [Figure 10A] FIG. 1 is a representation of a container with multiple PVs installed in a single layer using the container as a support structure for the installation. [Figure 10B] FIG. 1 is a representation of a container with multiple PVs installed in multiple layers using the container as a support structure for the installation. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary computer system that can be utilized to implement the methods described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The methods, devices, systems, and other features described below may be embodied in many different forms. However, not all of the components shown may be required, and some implementations may include additional or fewer components than those explicitly described in this disclosure. Changes in the arrangement and type of components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims as described herein. Furthermore, changes in the processes described, including the addition, deletion, or rearrangement and order of logical operations, may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims as described herein.

[0011] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to particular devices or methods, which may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms "can" and "might" are used throughout this application in their permissive (i.e., having the potential to, being able to) sense rather than their mandatory (i.e., must) sense. The term "comprises" and its derivatives mean "including, but not limited to." The term "coupled" means directly or indirectly connected. The term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. The term "uniform" means substantially equal to each subelement within a variation of about ±10%.

[0012] As used herein, "obtaining" data generally means any method or combination of methods of acquiring, collecting, or accessing data, including, for example, directly measuring or detecting a physical property, receiving transmitted data, selecting data from a group of physical sensors, identifying data in a data record, and retrieving data from one or more data libraries.

[0013] As used herein, terms such as "continuous" and "continuous" generally refer to a process that occurs repeatedly over time without relying on an external trigger to induce subsequent repetitions. In some cases, a continuous process may repeat in real time with minimal periods of inactivity between repetitions. In some cases, periods of inactivity may be inherent in a continuous process.

[0014] In the event of a conflict in the use of a phrase or term in this specification and one or more patents or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definition consistent with the definition in this specification should be adopted for purposes of understanding the present disclosure.

[0015] As described in the background art, various locations requiring electrical power, including remote and non-remote locations (e.g., remote mining), have traditionally relied on diesel generators. However, such applications can pose logistical risks. By way of example only, remote locations can present logistical risks, such as fuel deployment (including logistical challenges related to international fuel supply networks), safety risks associated with fuel delivery in some applications (e.g., military applications), potentially hazardous emissions risks, and carbon dioxide emissions risks. Similarly, typical solar-based power solutions are overly limited in their power generation capacity or are overly large / complex (e.g., difficult to transport and / or install / mount). As an example, existing large off-grid systems can supply power to residential, commercial, or industrial loads, but typically have mobility or transportability issues or may not be quickly or easily installed. As another example, small portable solar-storage solutions with sizes on the order of 100W may be used for camping or other outdoor recreational uses, but cannot provide clean mobile power operating in the 50kW to multi-MW range.

[0016] In this regard, in one or more embodiments, systems are disclosed that are configured for simple or easy transportation and / or movement. Alternatively, or in addition, systems are disclosed that are quick and / or easy to install. As such, in one or more embodiments, systems are disclosed that can be configured for remote and / or non-remote locations, which may include any one, any combination, or all of: tailored for easy transportation, including in harsh environments; and adapted for easy installation, configuration, maintenance, and repackaging and reinstallation without the need for undue specialized expertise or training.

[0017] Typically, a system includes any one, any combination, or all of a power conversion system (PCS), a battery, a PV subsystem, or one or more safety mechanisms. However, these different systems are typically packaged, transported, and installed separately. For example, a PCS may include one or more functions, such as any one, any combination, or all of one or more power converters configured to convert DC power to AC power and / or vice versa (e.g., by using one or more PCSs or conversion functions), maintain continuous operation of a load (e.g., supply constant power to the load), supply power to the load (e.g., to a local microgrid or power grid), or include one or more safety mechanisms, such as contactors, breakers, fuses, or the like. Thus, one function of the PCS is for power conversion (e.g., the PCS may perform power conversion, such as one or both of DC to AC conversion and vice versa). In this regard, any discussion herein regarding a PCS may apply generally to power conversion, such as either or both of DC to AC conversion or vice versa. For example, an inverter is a device that includes one type of power conversion (e.g., either DC to AC conversion or vice versa). As such, any discussion herein regarding a PCS may apply generally to inverters.

[0018] The battery may take the form of a battery energy storage system (BESS) including multiple batteries configured to supply or store power. The PV subsystem may be composed of PV modules (each PV module including multiple PV cells). The PV modules may be physically and electrically connected together to form a PV string before being installed in the container. Any reference herein to a "container" may include a shipping container. In one or some embodiments, a shipping container includes a container having suitable strength to withstand transportation, storage, and handling. In certain embodiments, a shipping container may include a large, reusable steel box used for intermodal transportation. For example, one type of shipping container includes an intermodal container, also known as a shipping container or ISO container, which is a large, standardized container designed and manufactured for intermodal cargo transportation. ISO containers can be used across different modes of transportation, such as from ship to rail to truck, without the need to unload and reload cargo.

[0019] Furthermore, multiple PV strings may comprise a PV unit. Accordingly, PVs may be arranged in various groupings, including PV modules, PV strings, PV units, etc. Accordingly, any description herein of a PV grouping or PV subsystem may include any one, any combination, or all of the various types of groupings contemplated herein. One or more safety mechanisms may be configured to address risks associated with the power generation system (battery, electrical, environmental, etc.).

[0020] Thus, in one or more embodiments, the container may be pre-configured, such as with one or both of electrical and mechanical pre-configuration, for efficient transportation, installation, and / or operation. In one or some embodiments, the electrical pre-configuration may include any one, any combination, or all of pre-wiring for power transmission, pre-configuration for communication between different elements within the container or outside the container (e.g., in one case, pre-wiring for communication between different elements, and in another case, pre-configuration for wireless communication with a wireless receiver / transmitter so that communication can occur without additional configuration after powering the wireless receiver / transmitter at the installation site), or pre-wiring for grounding. Alternatively, or in addition, the electrical pre-configuration may include one or more electrical devices within or on the container.

[0021] As an example, pre-wiring for power transmission purposes may include pre-configuring one or both of an AC bus or a DC bus located within the container. As described in further detail below, in one or some embodiments, the AC bus may be pre-wired to electrically connect with an AC output of the PCS and one or more electrical connectors (e.g., an output electrical AC connection for driving a load, one or more input electrical AC connections for receiving AC input from a generator, other AC power source, or the like), with the electrical connectors located on the container (e.g., accessible outside the container). In this manner, pre-wiring may make all AC electrical connections available except for plugging an AC cable into an AC output electrical connection for driving a load, or plugging an AC cable into an AC input electrical connection for receiving AC power input from a generator or other AC power source. Instead of or in addition to the AC bus being located within the container, the DC bus may be pre-wired to electrically connect to any one, any combination, or all of the BESS, PV, DC input to the PCS, or one or more electrical connectors (e.g., one or more input electrical DC connections for receiving DC input from an installed PV, a BESS located in a separate container, etc.).

[0022] Instead of, or in addition to, an AC bus and / or a DC bus, pre-wiring may be used to provide power and / or route power to one or more electronic devices (e.g., electronic devices installed within a container). As an example, an auxiliary power source, which may include an uninterruptible power supply, may be electrically pre-wired to one or more electrical devices within a container, such as any one, any combination, or all of the control electronics, PCS, sensors, or fans. In this way, the electronic devices may be powered immediately after installation. Alternatively, or in addition, the auxiliary power source may be pre-wired so that it can be electrically connected to the PCS for charging during operation. As another example, the DC output of the BESS may be wired directly to the DC input of the PCS.

[0023] In another example, pre-configuration for control purposes may include wired and / or wireless pre-configuration, whereby the control electronics may communicate with one or more electronic devices (e.g., receive data input from and / or send commands to control electronic devices located within the container). As described above, pre-configuration may include pre-wiring. Alternatively, or in addition, pre-configuration may include installing wireless communication capabilities (with or without receivers / transmitters) between different electronic devices, such that upon powering the receivers / transmitters in the field, wireless communication may occur without additional configuration at the installation site. In a first specific example, pre-wiring may enable one or more sensors located within the container to communicate with the control electronics. Similarly, using sensor data (transmitted from one or more sensors located within the container to the control electronics via pre-wiring), the control electronics may transmit one or more commands to various electronic devices located within the container (e.g., PCS, BESS, and / or fans). In a second particular example, pre-wiring may enable the control electronics to control various devices located within the container, such as a PCS and / or BESS located within the container. In a third particular example, pre-wiring may enable the control electronics to control various devices located outside the container, such as a PCS and / or BESS located in a separate container, via one or more electrical connectors positioned outside the container (e.g., the PCS and / or BESS may electrically connect to the control electronics via an electrical connector to receive commands via the electrical connector). Thus, pre-wiring for control purposes may be performed throughout prior to delivery, with little or no on-site configuration required.

[0024] As yet another example, pre-wiring for grounding purposes may include electrically connecting electronics housed within the container (e.g., individual devices housed within the container, such as a PCS, BESS, control electronics, an AC bus, or a DC bus) to the container's chassis. Indeed, with a portion of the chassis exposed, in the field, a user may electrically connect a metal connector to the exposed portion of the chassis, which is electrically wired to a metal stake that is driven into the ground and earth-grounded. In this way, for the purpose of grounding the electronics, a user need only electrically connect the metal connector to the chassis and drive the metal stake into the ground.

[0025] In one or some embodiments, the electrical pre-configuration may include one or more electrical devices in or on the container. As an example, the container may include a user interface mounted to or on the container (e.g., an exterior panel of the container). In particular, the user interface may include a display, such as a touchscreen, and may be embedded or integrated into the exterior of the container, such as a wall. Furthermore, the user interface may be pre-wired to the control electronics. In one or some embodiments, the user interface may include a hinged cover so that the user interface can be covered during transport of the container or in inclement weather. In one or some embodiments, the user interface may be configured to have one or more functions, such as requesting the status of any portion of the system (e.g., state of charge of the BESS, current amount of energy production of the PV subsystem) or controlling any portion of the system (e.g., fan, control electronics). As another example, the container may include one or more electrical connectors, as described above.

[0026] Alternatively, or in addition, mechanical pre-configuration may include any one, any combination, or all of the following: co-locating the BESS, PCS, controller, auxiliary power supply, sensors, and fans within a container for both transportation and operation; co-locating the PV subsystem with any one, any combination, or all of the BESS, PCS, controller, auxiliary power supply, sensors, and fans within the container for transportation; or including within the container one or more mounting systems for installing some or all of the PV subsystem. As one example, any one, any combination, or all of the BESS, PCS, controller, auxiliary power supply, sensors, and fans may be positioned and mechanically supported within the container using one or more racks for transportation within the container and use at the final installation site. As another example, some or all of the PV subsystem may be positioned within the container for transportation. In one or some embodiments, the container may house one or more PV subsystems. As yet another example, one or more mounting systems may be positioned within the container and transported with the container. In this manner, the one or more mounting systems may be used to install the PV subsystem when the container is delivered to the final site.

[0027] Thus, as described above, the system includes any one, any combination, or all of the following: a PV subsystem (e.g., a non-flexible solar panel, such as a glass solar panel, a glass-free solar panel, a flexible solar panel, or a laminated solar panel, that is less likely to break when moved or installed); a battery (e.g., a ruggedized battery that is less likely to break when moved or installed); or control electronics (e.g., a PCS configured to operate with or without communication with one or more other electronic devices in the environment) adapted for transportation, installation, packaging, and reinstallation conditions. In one or some embodiments, ruggedization may include being configured to have any one, any combination, or all of the following: resistance to wear, resistance to breakage, operation under stress, or resistance to electronic abuse. In one or some embodiments, various components may be ruggedized based on characteristics associated with the respective components. As one example, the PV subsystem may be ruggedized in one or more characteristics, such as being glass-free. As another example, the battery may be a maintenance-free battery sealed within a sturdy battery enclosure.

[0028] In this regard, containers for transporting system components are configured for easier transportation and / or configuration than conventional distributed energy resources (DERs). Accordingly, various embodiments are contemplated for tailoring the mechanical and / or electrical configuration of the container. In one particular example, the container may be configured for transporting both the PV subsystem and the BESS. In another particular example, separate containers may be tailored to the requirements of the PV subsystem and the BESS subsystem, such as a PV container tailored to the requirements of transporting and / or configuring the PV subsystem, a battery container tailored to the requirements of transporting and / or configuring the BESS, etc.

[0029] In a first embodiment, a PV container includes both (i) multiple PV strings and (ii) a power electronics device (e.g., a PCS) that performs DC to AC conversion. In practice, the PV subsystem generates DC power. Furthermore, in practice, different strings of PV (see FIG. 9B) generate different outputs for DC power. The power (whether DC or AC) can be routed to a central location. Using a power electronics device, such as one or more PCSs, the system can convert the DC power to AC power. In one embodiment, the conversion using the PCS can be performed centrally (e.g., DC power is transmitted to a central location and DC / AC conversion is performed at the central location). In this regard, some containers do not include a PCS housed therein; rather, the DC power generated by each PV string can be routed to a central container that includes a PCS, which can then perform the DC / AC conversion. Alternatively, the conversion using a PCS may be performed locally (e.g., each container includes a PCS, the PV strings generate DC power where the DC / AC conversion is performed, and the AC power is transmitted to a central location). In systems where the DC / AC conversion is performed remotely (away from a central location), the PV container may include a power electronics device, such as one or more PCSs. Still alternatively, the DC / AC conversion may be performed in the PV strings such that AC power is output from the PV strings (e.g., the PCS is embedded within the PV panels and the DC / AC conversion is performed on-site). As such, conversion using a PCS or the like is not required.

[0030] Furthermore, the PV container can be adapted to the requirements of the power electronics device. As described above, the PCS can be integrated with the container in one or more ways, such as mechanically integrated within the container (e.g., physically mounted within or bolted to the container) or electrically integrated within the container (e.g., internal wiring, such as grounding, of the PCS may be electrically connected to the chassis of the PV container and then connected to an exposed grounding pad on the PV container, which can be connected to a physical ground to remotely ground the PCS when configuring the PCS on-site). In this respect, configuration can be significantly easier than conventional techniques that require physically transporting the PCS to the PV panels (also referred to as PVs) because the PV panels and PCS are transported in different containers. Furthermore, some or all of the wiring, including grounding for electronics, power, or communications, can be performed completely (or nearly completely) during configuration of the container. As an example described above, in practice, to ground the PCS, an operator simply electrically connects the exposed grounding pad from the chassis to a physical ground via a grounding stake. As such, configuration is greatly facilitated by grounding the PCS using the PV container (eg, the container's chassis and wiring).

[0031] Additionally, the PV container may be adapted to facilitate installation of the PV stored therein. In one or some embodiments, a wheeled system, such as an installation system, is integrated into the PV container housing the PV, thereby allowing the PV to be removed from within the PV container and installed at the final site. In one or some embodiments, the wheeled system remains connected to the PV while the container is in transit, thereby eliminating the need to connect the wheeled system to the PV before installation at the site. In this manner, connecting both the PV and the wheeled system during transit may increase rigidity and reduce the possibility of component damage during transit. Alternatively, one, some, or all of the wheeled systems within the PV container are disconnected from the PV during transit and only connected to the PV after the PV container has been delivered to the site.

[0032] In one or some embodiments, a PV container may include one or more PV groupings (e.g., whether one or more PV strings, one or more PV units, etc.). Indeed, each set of PV groupings includes structure for both holding the multiple PV groupings during transport and for removing and installing each PV grouping from the PV container. In a first embodiment, a wheeled installation system, which may include a truck, is assigned to each PV grouping. For example, a container including three sets of PV strings may include three separate installation systems, one assigned to each of the three sets of PV strings. In one embodiment, one, some, or all of the installation systems are connected to each PV string during transport. Alternatively, none of the installation systems in the PV container are connected to each PV string during transport, but are connected to each PV string only after arrival at the final site. Alternatively, the number of installation systems in the PV container is less than the number of PV strings in the container. For example, a PV container may house three sets of PV strings, but may include only one installation system (either connected during transport or disconnected during transport) assigned to the first PV string. The remaining two PV strings do not need to be assigned an orbital drive during transport. Rather, the remaining two sets of PVs may include respective slots for inserting an orbital drive. Indeed, after the first set of PVs is installed using its assigned orbital drive, the assigned orbital drive may be removed from the first set of PVs and connected to one of the remaining two sets of PVs (still remaining within the PV container) for removal and installation.

[0033] Additionally, the PV container may include guide rails that may be integrated into the structure of the container and may operate in combination with a wheeled system. For example, the guide rail may be hinged at one end and connectable at the other end (e.g., connectable to the top of the container). When the container is in motion, the guide rail may be connected at the other end, and the guide rail may be positioned in a stowed position. Thus, in the stowed position, the guide rail may provide additional rigidity to the PV grouping during movement. After the container arrives at the site, the guide rail may be disconnected at one end, thereby forming an inclined surface that may be used by a wheeled system, such as a track drive, to remove the PV set from the PV container.

[0034] As described above, in the second embodiment, the battery container includes both (i) multiple PV groupings and (ii) a power electronic device that performs DC to AC conversion.

[0035] More specifically, in one or more embodiments, the system may include (or be associated with) control devices for one, some, or all of the PV, battery energy storage system (BESS), or electronics (e.g., electrical connectors) to receive power from one or more generators. As described above, the control electronics may be configured to control associated devices depending on the availability of communications with other devices. One exemplary control device includes a PCS. Other control devices are also contemplated. As described above, the system may be configured to operate autonomously and, as such, may not rely on wired and / or wireless communications. In this regard, the system may be easily and quickly installed, packaged, and reinstalled. Furthermore, in one or some embodiments, various components within the system may be co-located, such as the PCS and BESS subsystems, as described above, thus enabling pre-wiring of the container prior to shipping, such as the installation of pre-wired communications equipment (e.g., Ethernet cabling) and / or wireless communications equipment (e.g., a local wireless communications network, mesh network, or the like) between the components. Alternatively, components of the system may be located remotely from one another (e.g., a PV grouping may be located remotely from a BESS subsystem), such that wired or wireless communication is either not feasible or unavailable. For example, certain components of the system may be co-located (e.g., a PV string and a BESS subsystem, a PV string and a generator, a BESS subsystem and a generator), thereby enabling communication, while other components may not be co-located, making communication impossible.As such, in one or more embodiments, the controllers of the devices in the system may be adapted to the conditions of installation in such an environment (e.g., to take advantage of communication between one or more components if available in the first place) and may be configured to operate even in the absence of communication with one or more other devices in the system (e.g., the PV may not be able to communicate with the BESS, and vice versa).

[0036] As described above, in one embodiment, the PV groupings are removed from the PV container before installation at the site. Alternatively, the PV groupings may be installed at the site while still connected to the PV container. In particular, the PV groupings may include both (i) structures that connect to the PV container to provide structural support for the PVs (including structures that connect the PV groupings directly to the PV container or structures that connect the PV groupings to the PV container via one or more intermediary structures), and (ii) structures that allow for installation of the PV groupings while structurally supported by the PV container. Various types of PV installations are contemplated. In one embodiment, the PV groupings may be hinged on at least one side and configured to assume a stowed position (e.g., folded, such that the PV strings at least partially overlap each other and / or are at least partially within the PV container) and an installed position (e.g., the PV strings are then unfolded and do not overlap each other and are not within the PV container). Alternatively, or in addition, the PV grouping may be multi-tiered, such as being multi-tiered in the storage position (e.g., the PV strings are at least partially on top of each other) and in the installation position (e.g., the PV strings do not overlap each other when installed and are positioned at different heights relative to the top of the PV container).

[0037] As such, in one or more embodiments, the system may be easily configurable in one of several ways, including any one, any combination, or all of: easily packaged for transportation, easily installed at the final site, and easily configurable in the field. By way of example only, the system may include a plug-and-play power distribution system, which may enable spot generation or distributed microgrid functionality, but may or may not require the installation of multiple relays, power meters, etc. to effectively power multiple loads. Additionally, the system may include an intuitive human-machine interface (HMI), controls, and power distribution connections, which allow for easy configuration in the field without requiring substantial training.

[0038] Referring to the figures, FIG. 1A is an example block diagram 100 illustrating a high-level system architecture for a mobile solar power-storage generation system. For example, the architecture may include any one, any combination, or all of a PV subsystem 102 (which may include one or more PV subsystems), a BESS subsystem 106 (which may include one or more BESS subsystems), one or more generators 108, and a load 110 (which may include one or more loads, such as one or more AC loads). As described in more detail below, the AC load may include a discrete load, a microgrid, or a power grid. Additionally, various configurations and loads are contemplated, as described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 2A-2E and 3A-3B. In one or some embodiments, the architecture includes one or more power conversion systems (PCSs) 104.

[0039] Indeed, power may be supplied to load 110 via one or more means, such as from PV subsystem 102 (via PCS 104) through 114, from BESS subsystem 106 (via PCS 104) through 116, and / or from generator 108 through 118. Additionally, when not routing power to load 110, PV subsystem 102 may route power to BESS subsystem 106, such as via lines 112 and PCS 104. The system may further include any one, any combination, or all of various controllers, wiring, heat exchangers, power meters, or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

[0040] Furthermore, one or more components of the system (e.g., PV) may generate DC power, but the load may operate on AC power. As such, the architecture may include DC / AC conversion, such as by one or more PCSs. The DC / AC conversion may be performed in one of two ways, including (1) a distributed manner, such as near where the DC power is generated (e.g., PV generates DC power, a PCS at the output of the PV converts the DC power to AC, and the AC power is transported to a central location, such as where a battery is housed), or (2) a centralized manner (e.g., in which DC power generated by PV panels is transmitted to a central location where DC / AC power conversion is performed). In this regard, a container for on-site installation may be adapted to either distributed or centralized DC / AC conversion requirements. For example, in distributed DC / AC conversion, as illustrated in FIG. 1H, one or more containers may be implemented to perform DC / AC conversion on-site (described below), and the AC power is transmitted to another container (e.g., a centralized container) for potential combination with AC power from other sources. As another example, centralized DC / AC conversion may be implemented with one or more containers operating within the DC universe, as illustrated in FIG. 1I (discussed below), and DC power transmitted to the centralized container for centralized DC / AC conversion (e.g., DC power generated by a PV subsystem may be transmitted to another container for DC / AC conversion, and / or BESS subsystem power may be transmitted to another container for DC / AC conversion).

[0041] 1A may communicate with one another, such as via wired and / or wireless communication. This is illustrated, for example, via communication link 120 (between the PCS 104 associated with the PV subsystem 102 and the PCS 104 associated with the BESS subsystem 106), communication link 122 (between the PCS 104 associated with the PV subsystem 102 and the generator 108), and communication link 124 (between the PCS 104 associated with the BESS subsystem 106 and the generator 108). As described in more detail below, the various PCSs 104 may determine which devices are available for communication and control the system accordingly.

[0042] Note that FIG. 1A illustrates one exemplary embodiment. Other implementations are contemplated. By way of example only, the architecture may include any one, any combination, or all of different types of batteries (e.g., non-battery energy storage devices), different types of power electronics devices, or different types of PV modules (e.g., different cell types, front and back sheets (e.g., glass, plastic, or other), and other variations in balance-of-module components). Additionally, the internal connections between the batteries and power electronics devices may vary. The present invention may be implemented to use more or less robust materials for containers, packaging, and other components as required by the particular application.

[0043] Furthermore, a system such as that illustrated in FIG. 1A and described further below can be modular and flexibly integrated. Each unit, such as each PV subsystem 102 and / or each BESS subsystem 106 and / or each generator 108, can be used to power an individual building or load. Alternatively, multiple units can be connected together and operate as a microgrid powering multiple loads, as described in more detail below. In this regard, the system can be used in off-grid implementations. Alternatively, or in addition, the system can be used in grid-tied applications. Furthermore, the mobile power generation system can be applied in a variety of configurations, some examples of which include spot generation (see FIGS. 2A-2E) and microgrids (see FIGS. 3A-3B and 4).

[0044] 1B-1I are example block diagrams 130, 150, 162, 166, 172, 174, 176, 182, 192, and 193 illustrating different configurations of container 131. As described above, container 131 may be including different combinations of electronic devices (including any one, any combination, or all of the following: PV subsystem 102, BESS subsystem 106, PCS 104, auxiliary power supply 132, additional electronics 134 (e.g., sensors and / or fans), or controller 136 (e.g., control electronics); including one or more external interfaces (including any one, any combination, or all of the following: a load output 137, a generator input 138, an additional AC input 140, a chassis ground connection 142, an additional DC input 144, a user interface 146, or a mechanical portion 148 (e.g., a vent); including electrical pre-configuration (e.g., including any one, any combination, or all of the following: pre-wiring for power transmission purposes, pre-wiring for communication purposes between different elements inside the container or outside the container, or pre-wiring for grounding purposes); or The device may be conditioned or pre-configured in one or more ways, including any one, any combination, or all of: mechanical pre-configuration;

[0045] 1B-1I illustrate example block diagrams illustrating different configurations of container 131. For example, FIG. 1B illustrates various electronic devices that may be included in or on container 131. As described above, PV subsystem 102 may include any PV grouping, as described above. Additionally, BESS subsystem 106 may include one or more different BESS racks. As described above, auxiliary power source 132 may include a universal power supply (UPS), which may be pre-wired, as described further below, to power one or more electronic devices, such as controller 136. In one or some embodiments, the UPS may provide power to one or more electronic devices, such as PCS 104, controller 136, and / or BESS subsystem 106, as shown in FIG. 1B. In one or some embodiments, controller 136 distributes power to a battery, which may then start and then recharge the UPS. Thus, recharging of the UPS may be performed either before or after installation of the PV subsystem 102. For example, if recharging is performed after installation, DC power from the PV subsystem 102 may be routed to the auxiliary power source 132, which may then distribute power to the PCS 104, the controller 136 (which may be used to power the BESS subsystem 106). Alternatively, if the PV subsystem 102 has not yet been installed, power from the UPS (without recharging) may be used to initialize the system.

[0046] Controller 136 includes control electronics and computational capabilities, such as those described below with respect to FIG. 11 , to control one or more electronic devices shown in FIG. 1B (and optionally devices electrically connected via load output 137, additional AC input 140, or additional DC input 144). By way of example only, controller 136 may be configured (via pre-wiring or pre-configuration, as described further below) to receive data input and control one or more devices, such as via one or more sensors (e.g., a temperature sensor positioned within the container, a power meter within the vessel, etc.). For example, controller 136 may control a fan or other type of thermal management system within the container in response to data generated by a temperature sensor to cool the container. Alternatively, or in addition, controller 136 may control the PCS to modify the AC output, such as by increasing or decreasing power or modifying either or both frequency and voltage, in response to data generated by a power meter. In this regard, the power meter may communicate with the PCS, such as directly or via the controller 136, to control the operation of the PCS with data generated by the power meter. Alternatively, the various electronic devices within the container (e.g., the PCS) may be liquid cooled, such that no fans are required to cool the electronic devices.

[0047] As described above, the controller 136 may also initially power the battery. In this regard, one or more power meters may be used to assist the PCS in controlling power. In a particular example, a first power meter may measure power input from one or more power sources, such as a general AC power source (e.g., a generator, if one is used in the system and inputs power via the generator input 138) and / or a general DC power source. Additionally, a second power meter may measure power leaving the container (e.g., at the load output 137) so that the PCS 104 knows the amount of power being output and can adjust the power output accordingly. Thus, the PCS 104 may use one or more power meters pre-wired to sense various inputs or outputs as described. Alternatively, or in addition, the controller 136 may control one or more of the BESS subsystem 106, the PCS 104, or the user interface 146.

[0048] 1B illustrates multiple external interfaces. In one or more embodiments, the multiple external interfaces may be on at least one side of the container 131, such as on the outside of the container, as illustrated in FIG. 5A. Alternatively, one or more of the multiple external interfaces may be positioned on an interior wall of the container 131, such as on a hinged door of the container 131. Still alternatively, the multiple external interfaces may be positioned on multiple sides of the container 131. Regardless, positioning one or more of the external interfaces shown in FIG. 1B (and electrical and / or communication wiring to connect them) may be part of pre-configuration of the container before transporting the container to the final site where the system will be installed.

[0049] The load output 137 may include electrical connections as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5E-5F and described further below to transmit AC power to a load such as that illustrated in FIG. 1A. The generator input 138 may include electrical connections as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5E-5F and described further below to receive AC power generated by a generator such as that illustrated in FIG. 1A. The additional AC input 140 may include electrical connections as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5E. In one or some embodiments, the additional AC input may be generated from one or more PV strings that have already been converted to AC, separate from being generated by a generator, as described further below. Furthermore, as described above, various types of loads are contemplated, such as discrete loads (e.g., an AC source feeding a discrete load), a microgrid (e.g., an AC source feeding a microgrid), or a power grid (e.g., an AC source feeding a microgrid). The additional DC input 144 may include an electrical connection, such as that illustrated in Figure 5F. In one or some embodiments, the additional DC input may be generated from one or more PV strings that have not yet been converted to AC, as described in more detail below.

[0050] The chassis ground connection 142 is illustrated in more detail in the schematic diagram of FIG. 6D and visually in FIG. 5A . In one or some embodiments, the chassis ground connection 142 comprises a metal connection to the chassis of the container 131 to which a metal connector can be physically and electrically connected. The metal connector is then electrically connected to a stake driven into the ground, which establishes an earth ground for the chassis of the container 131. In this regard, because there is pre-wiring of grounds for various devices to the chassis of the container 131, the ease of connecting the chassis to an earth ground also simplifies establishing an earth ground for devices within or dependent on the container 131 to be grounded. In particular, as described further below, the chassis ground may be pre-wired for electrical connection to various devices within the container 131, such as the PCS 104, the BESS subsystem 106, the controller 136, the auxiliary power supply 132, the additional electronics 134, and one or more buses pre-wired within the container 131, such as the AC bus 158 and / or the DC bus 168, which are described further below. As described further below, an example of AC bus 158 is illustrated in FIG. 6E. Additionally, DC bus 168 may have two rails (e.g., a positive rail and a negative rail), with another rail for earth ground (which may include chassis ground). Thus, the two rails of DC bus 168 may be pre-mounted on the chassis while being electrically isolated from the chassis ground. Alternatively, or in addition, the chassis ground may be used to earth ground one or more devices electrically connected to the container, such as earth grounding a load (via load output 137).

[0051] The user interface 146 may include a touch screen or the like that a user uses to obtain the status of one or more electronic devices in the system (e.g., interact with the controller 136 to determine the level of charge of the BESS subsystem 106, to determine the operation of the PCS 104, to determine the amount of power generated by the PV subsystem 102 (connected to one of the additional AC inputs 140 or additional DC inputs 144)) or to control one or more electronic devices in the system (e.g., control the PCS 104, the BESS subsystem 106, the PV subsystem 102, the auxiliary power supply 132, or additional electronic devices 134, such as a fan).

[0052] The container 131 may further include a mechanical portion 148 on the outside of the container 131, such as one or more vents, as illustrated in Figures 5A, 5C, 5E, and 5F.

[0053] As described above, the container may be pre-wired for power and / or communications before being transported to the final site. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 1C , where electrical wires 156 (which may include power and / or control wires) may connect the controller 136 to one or more devices, such as the PCS 104, the BESS subsystem 106, the auxiliary power source 132, the additional electronics 134, and the user interface 146. Additionally, the BESS subsystem 106 may be connected to the PCS 104, such as shown by the DC line 154 entering the PCS 104. Additional DC lines may be pre-wired to the PCS 104 using DC line 160, which may connect to the additional DC input 144. As described in more detail below, FIGS. 5C , 5F , 6A , and 6B are examples of DC connectors that input DC power generated by the PV groups, as well as examples of the additional DC input 144.

[0054] Finally, FIG. 1C illustrates AC bus 158, which may include a common AC bus for multiple devices, such as a load (via load output 137), a generator (via generator input 138), and additional AC input 140. (E.g., as described in more detail below, AC power may be generated by another container, such as a PCS in another container that converts DC power from a PV subsystem and / or BESS subsystem, and the AC power may be routed to container 131 via additional AC input 140.) An example of AC bus 158 is illustrated in FIG. 6E, described further below. In one or some embodiments, AC bus 158 may be electrically connected to earth ground via chassis ground connection 142, as shown in FIG. 1C.

[0055] 1D illustrates an example field configuration of the system shown in FIG. 1C , including field installation of the PV subsystem 102 at the final site. Note that because pre-wiring has been performed, fewer connections are required. Indeed, in one or some embodiments, only cabling 164 needs to be connected from the installed PV subsystem 102 to an additional DC input 144 to route DC power generated by the installed PV subsystem 102 to the PCS 104.

[0056] As mentioned above, the container may include either or both an AC bus or a DC bus. 1C-1D illustrate an AC bus 158 but do not include a DC bus (instead, DC power from the BESS subsystem 106 and the installed PV subsystem 102 are separately input to the PCS 104). Alternatively, both the AC bus 158 and the DC bus 168 may be pre-wired within the container 131, as illustrated in FIG. 1E. As such, connectors 144 for power output from the BESS subsystem 106 and for additional DC input may both be electrically pre-wired to the DC bus 168 via wiring 171, which is also pre-wired to the PCS 104. Additionally, similar to the AC bus 158, the chassis ground connection 142 is connected to the DC bus 168 and may be so connected when the chassis ground connection 142 is configured as shown in FIG. 6D (with an electrical connection to a ground stake).

[0057] 1F illustrates an example field configuration of the system shown in FIG. 1E, including field installation of the PV subsystem 102 at the final site. Again, pre-wiring has been performed, reducing the number of connections required. Indeed, in one or some embodiments, only cabling 164 needs to be connected from the installed PV subsystem 102 to an additional DC input 144 to route DC power generated by the installed PV subsystem 102 to a DC bus 168.

[0058] Additionally, as described above, the container 131 can be adapted to suit various needs. In one or some embodiments, any one, any combination, or all of the PV subsystem 102, the BESS subsystem 106, or the PCS 104 can be disposed (and pre-wired) within the container 131. Alternatively, only two of the PV subsystem 102, the BESS subsystem 106, or the PCS 104 can be disposed (and pre-wired) within the container 131. As an example, FIG. 1G illustrates that the container 131 can include only the BESS subsystem 106 and the PCS 104, without the PV subsystem 102 being included within the container 131 for transportation. As another example, the container 131 can include only the PV subsystem 102 and the PCS 104, without the BESS subsystem 106 being included within the container 131 for transportation. This is illustrated in Figure 1H, where the PV subsystem 102 is installed (as indicated by arrow 178) and its DC power source is electrically connected via a cable to the additional DC input 144. Because the PCS 104 is located within a container 131 in Figure 1H, the DC power from the PV subsystem 102 is converted to AC power, which can then be routed to another container via AC output 180, such as by connecting a cable from AC output 180 to the additional AC input 140 in Figure 1G.

[0059] As yet another example, container 131 may include only PV subsystem 102 and BESS subsystem 106, and PCS 104 may not be housed within container 131 for transportation (e.g., DC power output from both PV subsystem 102 and BESS subsystem 106 may be routed to container 131, PCS 104 may be housed within container 131, and multiple additional DC input 144 connectors may be electrically connected to the DC power output from both PV subsystem 102 and BESS subsystem 106, and PCS 104 may then convert the DC power from PV subsystem 102 and BESS subsystem 106 to AC power).

[0060] Still alternatively, only one of the PV subsystem 102, the BESS subsystem 106, or the PCS 104 may be located (and pre-wired) within the container 131. This is illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1I, where the PV subsystem 102 is installed (as indicated by arrow 183) and its DC power source is electrically connected to the additional DC input 144 via cable 185. Because the PCS 104 is not located within the container 131 in FIG. 1I, the DC power from the PV subsystem 102 is routed via pre-wiring 184 to the DC output 186, which may be routed to another container, such as by connecting a cable from the DC output 186 to the additional DC input 144 in FIG. 1G.

[0061] As described above, multiple shipping containers may be used to transport the PV subsystem 102, the BESS subsystem 106, and the PCS 104. As an example, FIG. 1J illustrates a first container 188 containing the BESS subsystem 106 and the PCS 104 and a second container 189 containing the PV subsystem 102. In practice, the PV subsystem 102 may be installed, as indicated by arrow 183. The DC power generated by the PV subsystem 102 may then be routed to the PCS 104 within the first container in one of several ways. In one method, the DC power generated by the PV subsystem may be routed through the second container 189, such as via cable 185 to the additional DC input 144, via pre-wiring 184 to the DC output 186, and then via cable 190 between the DC output 186 and the additional DC input 144, and finally input to the PCS 104. In another method, cable 191 may be routed directly between the installed PV subsystem 102 and the additional DC input 144. In either case, the DC power generated by the installed PV subsystems 102 may be routed to the PCS 104. In this regard, Figure 1J illustrates DC power being routed between containers.

[0062] Alternatively, AC power may be routed between containers, as shown in FIG. 1M. In particular, FIG. 1M illustrates a second container 189 with inversion capabilities, such as by including a PCS 195. As shown, in a first case, the PV subsystem 102 is installed and connected to the additional DC input 144 via cable 185. Pre-wiring connects both wiring 197 from the additional DC input 144 to the PCS 195 and wiring 198 for the AC output from the PCS 195 to the AC output 196. Thus, in this first case, AC power may be output from the second container 189 via the AC output 196. At the installation site, cable 199-1 may be connected between the AC output 196 and the additional AC input 140 to route AC power generated by the PCS 195 to the PCS 104. In a second case, DC power generated by the installed PV subsystem 102 may be converted to AC power on-site (using a DC / AC converter 199). Thus, in this second case, PCS 195 is not required to convert DC power to AC power (as AC power conversion is performed elsewhere). Rather, cable 199-2 may be connected between DC / AC converter 199 and additional AC input 140, thereby routing AC power generated by DC / AC converter 199 to PCS 104.

[0063] As described above, multiple PCSs may be housed within one or more containers. As an example, a single PCS may be housed within multiple different containers. Alternatively, multiple PCSs may be mechanically supported and electrically wired within a single container, as shown in FIG. 1K. As shown, two PCSs (including PCS 104 and second PCS 105) are illustrated, with additional DC input 144 wired as a DC input to second PCS 105. The AC output of second PCS 105, which may be adapted to the requirements of the PV application, is then electrically pre-wired to AC bus 158. Thus, in practice, PV subsystem 102 may be installed from container 131 as shown in FIG. 1K, with cable 164 connecting from the installed PV subsystem 102. Additionally, the second PCS 105 may be pre-wired via DC lines 155, such that DC power generated by the installed PV subsystems 102 may be input to the second PCS 105 via an additional DC input 144. Additionally, the controller 136 may be pre-wired to the second PCS 105, such that it may monitor and / or control the second PCS 105 (e.g., similar to PCS 104). Then, again due to pre-wiring prior to transportation, the output of the second PCS 105 is electrically connected to the AC bus 158. Thus, FIG. 1K is an example of AC coupling (e.g., coupling via the AC bus 158).

[0064] As described above (and in more detail below), the chassis (with pre-wiring) may be used to provide earth ground for one or more devices within or electrically connected to each container. For example, FIG. 1L illustrates that wiring 194 electrically connects the chassis (part of which may be chassis ground connection 142) to various devices within the container, such as any one, any combination, or all of PCS 104, BESS subsystem 106, auxiliary power supply 132, additional electronics 134, controller 136, or user interface 146.

[0065] 1L illustrates the BESS subsystem 106 as being connected to chassis ground. While the BESS may generally be floating (e.g., not connected to ground), the rack structure that holds or houses the BESS may be grounded, such that the mechanical structure that supports the BESS is connected to earth ground. Thus, in this embodiment, the BESS subsystem may include both the BESS and the mechanical structure (pre-wired to the chassis).

[0066] Additionally, the chassis ground may be electrically connected to one or more inputs to the container 131, such as any one, any combination, or all of the following: load output 137 (to earth-ground the load), generator input 138 (to earth-ground the generator that provides the generator power input to the container 131), additional AC input 140 (to earth-ground a source of AC input, such as PV power that is converted to AC power on-site (via a local inverter) and routed to the container 131), or additional DC input 144 (to earth-ground a device that provides DC power, such as the installed PV subsystem 102). Alternatively, one or both of the AC or DC power inputs to the container 131 may be grounded elsewhere. Additionally, as described in more detail in FIG. 6D , the chassis ground connection 142 may be electrically connected to a metal stake, spike, or the like at the installation site and plugged into the ground at the installation site to earth-ground the chassis (and devices 194 wired to it).

[0067] In this regard, FIGS. 1B-1M illustrate, in exemplary block diagrams, how the container contents, pre-wiring, and functionality can be tailored to the needs of the end user. A variety of different needs are contemplated. By way of example only, in one or some embodiments, different services may be provided in each of the spot generation or microgrid configurations. Based on operational use cases, the spot generation and / or microgrid configurations may be further divided into multiple sub-configurations. See FIGS. 2A-2E, 3A-3B, and 4A-4B. Notably, in one or some embodiments, different constraints may exist for one, some, or each of the sub-configurations, and the container and associated control schemes are adapted to these different constraints. As such, the controller may be configured to cause the system to respond to some or all of the different sub-configurations described below.

[0068] 2A-2F illustrate different configurations in which spot generation may be installed. In one or some embodiments, the spot generation comprises a simple configuration with a single source or combination of sources but only one output. The spot generation configuration may be designed so that each power generation unit (e.g., PV subsystem and / or BESS subsystem) may be installed individually or may be a combination of assets. A constraint on spot generation is that it may have only one output, which may limit the configuration to a single asset of each type (e.g., PV subsystem, BESS subsystem, generator unit). Various subconfigurations in which spot generation may be installed are also contemplated, including any one, any combination, or all of the following: PV subsystem only, BESS subsystem only, PV subsystem + BESS subsystem, generator + BESS subsystem, or PV subsystem + BESS subsystem + generator.

[0069] A PV-only configuration has a single solar power generating unit as a power source that provides power to a small load. Figure 2A is a one-line diagram 200 for a PV-only configuration illustrating the PV subsystem 102, breaker 210, PCS 104, and load 110, along with current flow 220.

[0070] Similar to the PV-only configuration shown in FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B is a diagram 230 of a BESS-only configuration with a stand-alone battery energy storage system unit (BESS subsystem 106) as the power source that delivers current flow 232 to the load 110.

[0071] In one or some embodiments, a PV+BESS configuration includes a combination of a single solar power generation unit and a single energy storage unit. For example, FIG. 2C illustrates diagram 240 of a single PV subsystem 102 and a single BESS subsystem 106 connected to a load 110 via an AC bus 242. In one or some embodiments, the AC bus 242 may include a bus in a microgrid. Alternatively, the AC bus 242 may be connected to a power grid and configured to support one or more loads on the power grid. In this manner, excess solar energy may be used to charge the battery unit, which may be utilized to supplement the PV subsystem by discharging during periods of low solar irradiance. In one or some embodiments, a generator 108 (current 252 generated by the generator 108) may be added to these configurations (see diagrams 250, 260, and 270, respectively, in FIGS. 2D-2F) so that power may be maintained when solar and energy storage are unavailable or insufficient. The generator 108 may also be used to charge the BESS subsystem 106 during times of low solar irradiance. As such, Figures 2C-2F illustrate single-line diagrams for these configurations. Alternatively, multi-line configurations are also contemplated. Additionally, spot generation or microgrids are also contemplated configurations. For example, spot generation may constitute a system in which a power source is connected to a load through a single electrical connection. See Figure 2F.

[0072] 2A-2F, one or more safety mechanisms may be used to address risks associated with the power generation system (battery, electrical, environmental, etc.) As an example, those incorporated within the PCS may include one or more safety mechanisms, such as any one, any combination, or all of the following: contactors, breakers, or fuses.

[0073] As described above, a microgrid configuration may alternatively be used, such as for a more fault-tolerant power grid. In this manner, the use of renewable energy generation assets and reserve fuel may be optimized. Microgrid configurations may be classified as either centralized microgrids (see FIGS. 3A-3B) or distributed microgrids (see FIGS. 4A-4B). For example, a microgrid configuration need not include a generator 108 (see diagram 300 in FIG. 3A, where currents 310, 312, and 314 flow to loads 320, 322, and 324, respectively), although some configurations may include a generator 108 (see diagram 350 in FIG. 3B).

[0074] In a centralized microgrid configuration (as illustrated in diagrams 300 and 350), the power generating assets may be in a centralized location and may have a single point of interconnection (POI) to the existing power grid. While such a configuration is optimal from a space perspective, it leaves a single point of failure at the POI.

[0075] In a distributed microgrid configuration (illustrated in diagram 400 of FIG. 4A and diagram 450 of FIG. 4B), power generating units are physically distributed throughout the deployment and connected such that there is no longer a single point of failure (see currents from the AC bus 242 (410), the generator 108 (420), the BESS subsystem 106 (430), and the PV subsystem 102 (440)), thus creating a more reliable power source and preventing outages during asset maintenance or failure. More specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates a microgrid configuration with an AC bus 242, while FIG. 4B illustrates a microgrid configuration with both an AC bus 242 and a DC bus 460 (e.g., DC output from the PV subsystem 102 and the BESS subsystem 106 are each routed to the DC bus 460 and then converted to AC using the PCS 104). As shown, each of Figures 2A-2F, 3A-3B, and 4A-4B is an example configuration. Other configurations are contemplated. Furthermore, these configurations may enable fault tolerance and redundancy to be achieved, such as by using any one, any combination, or all of bypass diodes, multiple solar strings, multiple PCSs, or PV subsystems (e.g., flexible, non-glass solar panels).

[0076] In one or some embodiments, the mobile power system may operate under one or more constraints, including constraints on any one, any combination, or all of the PV subsystem, the BESS subsystem, or the generator system. Additionally, within the overall system, failure modes may exist, such as any one, any combination, or all of the following: communication failure (e.g., PCS / human-machine interface (HMI) communication), system availability (e.g., BESS at minimum or maximum charge, generator out of fuel, low solar irradiance), system failure (e.g., equipment failure), and system stability (e.g., voltage and / or frequency stability).

[0077] With respect to PV constraints, the PV subsystem may be constrained by any one, any combination, or all of the following: low solar irradiance, PCS rating, PV losses (e.g., resistive losses due to power cable impedance or PCS efficiency), or equipment losses (e.g., PCS, PV modules, and / or junction box). PV losses begin at the AC PCS terminals through the POI and can be a combination of fixed power losses and losses proportional to output power (e.g., resistive losses or impedance losses). Other losses in the PV subsystem may include any one, any combination, or all of: pollution losses (e.g., losses due to snow, dirt, dust, and other particles accumulating on the PV modules), DC wiring losses (e.g., losses caused by ohmic resistance in the cabling interconnecting the PV devices and strings), light-induced degradation of the PV modules over time, or thermal losses (e.g., losses due to differences between cell temperature and ambient temperature).

[0078] For example, the PV loss can be expressed as: PV loss=(fixed auxiliary power)+R×PV (1) where fixed auxiliary power is the auxiliary power required to operate subsystems such as the PCS, controller, and breakers, R is the system resistance or impedance loss, and PV is the output power from the PV subsystem. The total PV output power at a given time can be a function of weather conditions minus the PV losses specified above, as shown below: PV output power = Fn (weather) - PV loss (2)

[0079] For a BESS, the constraints may include any one, any combination, or all of the following: battery charge or discharge limits (e.g., charging and discharging of a BESS is subject to power limit constraints and may be defined based on the chemical and mechanical structure of the battery module itself), battery state of charge (SOC) (e.g., the percentage of total energy used overall or battery capacity available from the battery; note that the total available energy may decrease as the battery approaches the end of its life), battery charge or discharge losses, or efficiency.

[0080] Additionally, power from a BESS may be considered positive when the BESS is providing power to a load (e.g., discharging) and negative when storing power (e.g., charging). The BESS's contribution to the energy flow has constraints associated with it when discharging and / or charging. When discharging: P BESS < Maximum discharge limit, positive value is discharge (3) P BESS <(SOC-SOC Min ) × CA / (time period) (4) When charging: P BESS > Maximum charge limit, negative numbers are charge (5) P BESS >(SOC-SOC Max ) × CA / (time period) (6) SOC = Energy Storage / Energy Capacity (7) CA=Cap×(1-θCapacityLoss)×ηESS (8) CA is the available capacity of the BESS in kWH, Cap is the actual energy capacity [kWh], and P BESSis the power output of the BESS in kW (positive values ​​are discharge, negative values ​​are charge), θCapacityLoss is the capacity difference due to operating at a C-rate different from standard test conditions (STC), C-rate is a measure of the current at which the battery is charged and discharged, ηBESS is the charge or discharge efficiency = (1 - internal losses) and may be adjusted as a function of C-rate, max discharge limit is the maximum BESS discharge capacity, and max charge limit is the maximum amount of charge the BESS can absorb.

[0081] In one or some embodiments, the SOC value may be communicated from a battery management system (BMS). The change in SOC over a time step may be estimated as follows: ΔSOC=BESS / [Cap×(1-θCapacityLoss)×ηBESS / (time period)] (9)

[0082] The total dischargeable energy at a constant rate can be expressed as: Cap×(1-θDischargeLoss)×ηBESS_Discharge (10)

[0083] The round trip efficiency (RTE) of the BESS can be expressed as: ηBESS_Charge×ηBESS_Discharge×(1-θDischargeLoss) / (1-θChargeLoss) (11)

[0084] With respect to generator constraints, the efficiency of a generator may be primarily limited by any one, any combination, or all of the following: fuel efficiency, iron losses (e.g., hysteresis losses and eddy current losses), friction losses (e.g., losses due to friction of moving parts), or copper losses (e.g., power lost as heat in the windings). The total energy output (kWh) from the generator may be expressed as: E=P×h×d (12)

[0085] The total fuel consumption (F) can be expressed as: F = E × C (13) where P is the active power in kW, h is the operating time of the gent set, d is the number of days, E is the energy output in kWh, and C is the fuel consumption per kWh.

[0086] As described above, one aspect includes pre-configuring the container with one or more external interfaces, such as any one, any combination, or all of a user interface (e.g., a touch screen), an AC input connector (e.g., for receiving AC power generated by a generator), an AC output connector (e.g., for driving a load), a DC input connector (e.g., for receiving DC power generated by a PV subsystem), or a DC output connector (e.g., for transferring DC power to a second container for AC conversion by a PCS located within the second container).

[0087] FIG. 5A is a diagram 500 depicting a sealed container 501 enclosing a BESS subsystem and one or more PCSs. As described above, various electronic devices may be carried within the container 501, as illustrated in FIG. 1B. Furthermore, as described above, one or more sides of the container 501 may include one or more interfaces. An example of multiple interfaces 504 is shown on side 502. Interfaces 504 are described in more detail in FIG. 5E.

[0088] FIG. 5B is a diagram 510 depicting a container 501 with one or more doors removed from hinges 529, showing the enclosed BESS subsystem 512, PCS 516, auxiliary power and controller 518 (although it is contemplated that the auxiliary power and controller may be housed in a separate container), and one or more sensors 514 (such as a power meter, which may be integrated and pre-wired for wired communication with the controller 518 and / or PCS 516. Alternatively, the power meter may have a pre-installed wireless transceiver that is activated at the installation site and wirelessly transmits to the controller 518 and / or PCS 516). In one or some embodiments, multiple PCSs 516 may be housed within the container, allowing the system to provide 50% capacity even in the event of a single PCS failure. Additionally, FIG. 5B illustrates multiple strings of batteries (MIL-PRF-32565), which may be divided among the PCSs, with four strings per BESS subsystem 512 in each container. In one or some embodiments, the batteries may be arranged in stackable racks within the container 501, as illustrated in FIG. 5B. Additionally, the BESS subsystem 512 may be mechanically supported or housed within one or more structures 522, 524, 526, as illustrated in FIG. 5B. In one or some embodiments, there are multiple batteries per string (e.g., at least 30 batteries in a string), and the system provides 75% capacity even if one module or string is damaged. For example, it is contemplated that the batteries may be connected in various configurations, such as in series and / or parallel, to achieve desired power and / or energy levels. Similarly, the PCS 516 may be supported or housed within one or more structures 528, as illustrated in FIG. 5B.

[0089] In one or some embodiments, the container may comply with military specifications for military packing, military storage, and / or military packaging. Additionally, in one or some embodiments, the container is one-third the size of a standard 20-foot ISO container. Furthermore, the container may include one or more sets of doors, such as three sets of doors.

[0090] As explained above, the container chassis provides a conduit to earth ground, and pre-wiring of devices within the container is connected to the chassis, which in turn is connected to earth ground on-site. Figure 5B illustrates an example of a portion of chassis 520 to which another electrically conductive device may be electrically connected (see Figure 6D, where a metal connector 668 is connected to chassis 666 via a metal bolt 670, and a metal stake 674 is electrically connected to metal connector 668 and driven into the ground to enable earth grounding).

[0091] In one or some embodiments, the container may be configured so that the device housed therein generates sufficient power (e.g., at least 50 kW, at least 100 kW, at least 200 kW, at least 500 kW, at least 1 MW, etc.) when transported to the site and is still easily transportable. Thus, in one or some embodiments, the container may conform to standard ISO, DOT, or MILSPEC containers for shipping. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 5B, the PCS unit for the battery may be packaged within the same container as the storage system to minimize the amount of equipment to be transported and installed.

[0092] Similarly, the PV subsystem may be transported in a container (e.g., a PV container) such as illustrated in Figures 5C-5D. In particular, Figure 5C is a diagram 538 depicting a sealed container 531 with a PV subsystem 540 enclosed therein. As described above, one or more sides of a container (such as the PV container 531) may include one or more interfaces. An example of multiple interfaces 534 is shown on side 532. Interfaces 534 are described in more detail in Figure 5F. Figure 5D is a diagram 538 depicting a container 531 with the door removed, revealing the PCS 516 and the enclosed PV subsystem 540 packaged therein, along with one or more mechanical structures 542.

[0093] In one or some embodiments, the PV subsystem, shown as a PV panel, is folded and placed inside container 531 (see FIG. 5D ), which allows for a unique type of packaging scheme that allows for quick installation, packaging, and reinstallation while facilitating transportation of the PV subsystem. As described above, the selected PV panel may have one or more attributes aside from being able to fold into container 531, such as laminated or unglazed solar panels. Furthermore, in one or some embodiments, the PCS unit of the PV subsystem may be packed within the same container as the folded PV panel for transportation, as shown in FIG. 5D . For example, two PCSs may be housed within container 531, thereby allowing the system to continue to provide output power even if one of the PCSs fails. Finally, the PV subsystem, like the BESS subsystem, is ruggedized and therefore can withstand harsh environments and can often be transported over steep terrain.

[0094] 5E shows one exterior side 502 of the container 501 shown in FIG. 5A along with interface 504. As shown, one or more vents 564, 566, 568, 570 may be provided on side 502. In one or some embodiments, vents 566 and 568 are air intakes and vents 564 and 570 are air exhausts, which, in conjunction with fan control by the control electronics, may cool electronics within the container, such as a PCS that generates heat when performing DC / AC conversion.

[0095] Additionally, a user interface 550, which may include a touchscreen, may be provided on side 532. Thus, user interface 550 may include a human-machine interface (HMI) that may be for control and / or monitoring of the system. In one or some embodiments, user interface 550 may include multiple different pages or screens, including, for example, the amount of power generated by the system, system faults, or system controls (e.g., providing auxiliary power in the absence of a generator or external power distribution unit, performing a black start in which the system is started or restarted). For example, a UPS may be used to perform a black start, as described above.

[0096] Additionally, an additional user interface 551, which may include a circuit breaker, may be used to inform a user of the status within the container. As described above, user interface 550 may be pre-wired to control electronics, such as 138. Additionally, side 502 may include one or more AC connectors (e.g., one or more AC output connectors and / or one or more AC input connectors) and / or one or more DC connectors (e.g., one or more DC output connectors and / or one or more DC input connectors). As shown in FIG. 5E , AC connectors 552 (shown as a row of 5, which may correspond to four rails (e.g., line 1, line 2, line 3, and neutral) for an AC bus) include AC connectors for load outputs (e.g., load output 137), which may be pre-wired to PCS 516 housed within container 501. Additionally, AC connectors 554 (shown as pentagonal shapes) may include AC connectors for generator inputs (e.g., generator input 138), which may also be pre-wired to PCS 516, such as via an AC bus located within container 501. FIG. 5E further shows four sets of AC connectors 556, 558, 560, 562 (each shown as pentagonal shapes), which may include AC connectors for AC inputs (e.g., additional AC input 140) that are also pre-wired to PCS 516, such as via an AC bus. Thus, side 502 may be configured in one of several ways.

[0097] FIG. 5F shows one side 532 of the exterior of container 531 shown in FIG. 5C along with interface 534. As shown, one or more vents 564, 566, 568, 570 may be provided on side 532. Additionally, user interface 550, which may include a touchscreen, may be provided on side 532. As described above, user interface 550 may be pre-wired to control electronics, such as 138. Additionally, side 532 may include one or more AC connectors and / or one or more DC connectors. Aside from AC connector 552 for a load output (e.g., load output 137) and for an AC input (e.g., generator input (see generator input 138) or additional AC input (see additional AC input 140)), the side may include one or more DC connectors (e.g., one or more DC output connectors and / or one or more DC input connectors). For example, DC connector 580 includes a DC connector for a DC input (e.g., additional DC input 144), which may be pre-wired to PCS 516 housed within container 531 (e.g., input directly to PCS 516 or input via a DC bus located within the container).

[0098] 6A-6B are diagrams 600, 630 depicting installed PV subsystems 620, 622 and their connected containers 531. As shown, cables 610, 612 from each PV subsystem 620, 622 connect the PV subsystems 620, 622 to their respective DC connectors 580.

[0099] 6C is a diagram 650 depicting container 531 with door 663 open and PV panel 640 removed. In one or some embodiments, each container, such as the containers illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5F, can be less than 10,000 lbs when fully loaded.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 5D , a container 531 can include both a PV subsystem and a PCS. An example of a PCS is illustrated in FIG. 6C , which includes a PCS 660 and an AC bus box 661 (e.g., an example of an AC bus that can contain electronic devices to which all AC lines are connected). Furthermore, FIG. 6C illustrates two PCSs 660, as opposed to a typical container that separates the PV panels and the PCS into different containers. A container 531 housing both the PV panels 640 and the PCS 660 can allow for easier installation for several reasons. First, the PV panels 640 can be installed near the container 531 (as illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B and 9A-9B ). In this way, a container 531 housing the PCS 660 can allow for easier configuration because the PCS is already near the PV panels 640. Second, the PCS 660 may be integrated with the container 531, such as mechanically and / or electrically, as described above. Mechanically, the container 531 may include one or more structures for supporting the PCS 660 during transport and after configuration. Electrically, the container 531 may be provided with various wiring, such as ground wiring 664 for grounding the PCS 660. In one or some embodiments, the ground wiring 664 is connected to a chassis 666 of the container. A metal connector 668 may then be connected to the chassis 666 via a metal bolt 670 or the like to electrically connect the chassis to an earth ground. Furthermore, the metal connector 668 may be pre-connected to a metal wire 672, which may be electrically connected to a metal stake 674, which may be driven into the ground to enable earth grounding.

[0101] The PCS 660 may further generate an AC output, which may include one or more lines. As an example, the PCS 660 generates a four-line output to an AC bus, as illustrated in FIG. 6E, where four of these lines correspond to rails 680, 682, 684, and 686 and include line 1, line 2, line 3, and neutral. In this regard, rails 680, 682, 684, and 686 may be mechanically attached to the chassis but electrically isolated from the chassis. As described in detail above, the container may be pre-wired. An example of pre-wiring is shown via electrical wire 694 for the AC bus.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the exposed grounding pads may be integral with the containers 501, 531 and may be exposed portions of the chassis of the containers 501, 531. Indeed, after removing the PV subsystems 620, 622 (see FIGS. 6A-6B and 7A-7B), the PV subsystems may be electrically connected to the PCS 660 via wiring, such as cables 610, 612, by connecting wiring that carries the DC power output of the PV subsystems 620, 622 to the input electrical connector 665, inputting the DC power to the PCS 660. See FIG. 6D. Similarly, the output of the PCS 660 may output AC power to a load or a larger power grid. In this regard, in one embodiment, the AC load may include a microgrid. Alternatively, the AC load may include an external power grid (e.g., the external power grid may be electrically connected to the AC bus described herein). Wiring connects to output electrical connector 667 (an example of AC output 180), which may carry the AC power generated by PCS 660 to another device, such as central container 960, described further below. Additionally, an exposed ground pad (which may be part of chassis 666), already connected to PCS 660 via ground wiring 664, may be exposed, such as by opening door 662. See FIG. 9A. The exposed ground pad may then be tied to a stake for earth grounding, thus grounding PCS 660. In this manner, the ease of pre-wiring and connecting cables to connectors reduces or eliminates incorrect connections.

[0103] As described above, power from various sources, such as different sets of PV panels (see FIGS. 9A-9B), can be routed to a central location. The central location may include a central system controller and multiple batteries 690, an example of which is illustrated in representation 671 of FIG. 6E. In particular, FIG. 6E illustrates a container with its top removed to reveal the batteries 690 and AC rail system. The AC rail system may include multiple rails, such as the four rails shown in FIG. 6E, including rails 680, 682, 684, and 686 for the first phase, second phase, third phase, and neutral, respectively. Indeed, in addition to the four rails, a ground wire (e.g., earth ground) may be included. In one or some embodiments, some or all of the AC rail system, including one, some, or each of rails 680, 682, 684, and 686, may be mechanically and / or electrically integrated with the respective container 692, a portion of which is shown in FIG. 6E.

[0104] The exact dimensions and types of containers for the PV and BESS may vary. In one or more embodiments, the size, weight, packaging, and integration method for each container (such as a container for the BESS subsystem or a container for the PV subsystem) may be unique. Alternatively, the containers carrying the BESS and PV subsystems, such as those illustrated in Figures 5A-5F, may be identical in overall dimensions.

[0105] Thus, the BESS subsystem and the PV subsystem may be transported separately in separate containers, as shown in Figures 5B and 5D, or the BESS subsystem, PV subsystem, and PCS may be shipped and / or integrated within a single container, as described above.

[0106] As described above, in one embodiment, the container 710 has each respective set of PV subsystems 726 with an associated mounting system 722 (illustrated in FIG. 7A ). Alternatively, some, but not all, of the sets of PV subsystems 726 have an associated mounting system 722 (illustrated in FIG. 7B ). In particular, FIG. 7A is a diagram 700 depicting the container 710 with the door removed, illustrating three sets of PV subsystems 726, mounting systems 722, connectors 724 connecting the mounting systems 722 to the PV subsystems 726, and the overall structure 720 for each set. In one or some embodiments, a single container may include multiple sets of PV subsystems, as illustrated in FIG. 8C . Indeed, each PV set may be removed from the container one at a time, as illustrated in FIG. 8C . Various methods are contemplated for removing each PV set, including the mounting system 722, such as via a wheeled or tracked system.

[0107] In one or some embodiments, the mounting system 722 is mechanically connected to the set of PV subsystems 726 via connectors 724 while the container 710 is being transported. Alternatively, the mounting system 722 is not mechanically connected to the set of PV subsystems 726 while the container 710 is being transported. Rather, after arriving at the site, the mounting system 722 is mechanically connected to the set of PV subsystems 726 via connectors 724. In either case, after the mounting system 722 is mechanically connected to the set of PV subsystems 726, the connected devices within the overall structure 720 (including the mounting system 722, connectors 724, and set of PV subsystems 726) can be removed from the container 710 via the mounting system 722 and one or more rails, as further described with respect to FIGS. 7C-7D .

[0108] FIG. 7B is a diagram 730 depicting container 710 with the door removed, illustrating PV subsystems 726, mounting system 722, connectors 724 connecting the mounting system to PV subsystems 726, and overall structure 720 for one set, as well as two additional sets of PV subsystems 726, slots 732 for inserting mounting systems 722, connectors 724 connecting mounting systems 722 to PV subsystems 726 (when mounting systems 722 are inserted into their respective slots 732), and overall structure 720 for each set. Indeed, the first set of PV subsystems 726 connected to mounting systems 722 (shown on the far right of FIG. 7B ) can be removed from container 710 and installed. After installation of the first set of PV subsystems 726, mounting system 722 can be reused, such as by being inserted into slot 732 and then connected to a different set of PV subsystems via connectors 724. This process can be repeated until all of the sets of PV subsystems 726 have been removed from container 710.

[0109] As described above, various structures, such as rails 742 (interchangeably referred to as guides), can be used in combination with the mounting system 722 to physically move the set of PV subsystems 726 from the container 710. One example is illustrated in FIG. 7C, which is a diagram 740 depicting the container 710 with the door and set of PV subsystems illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B removed and the rails 742 visible in an upright position. For example, the rails 742 can be hinged to the lower end of the container 710 using hinges 744 and, at the opposite end, reversibly attached to the upper end of the container 710 via fasteners 746, as shown in FIGS. 7C-7D. In one or some embodiments, the rails 742 are stored in an upright position, and the rails 742 remain connected to the upper end of the container 710 during transport. In this manner, the rails 742 can provide additional rigidity to the contents stored within the container 710.

[0110] Figure 7D is a representation 750 similar to Figure 7C with rails 742 in an installed position (752) for use by mounting system 722 during installation. As shown in Figure 7D, two rails 742 are installed so that one set of PV subsystems 726 (e.g., the right-most set of PV subsystems 726 as illustrated in Figures 7A-7B) can be retrieved through mounting system 722.

[0111] FIGS. 8A-8E are a series of representations 800, 810, 820, 830, 840, and 850 illustrating an exemplary installation of a PV subsystem. In one or some embodiments, the system is provided pre-assembled and can be installed in less than a day without requiring specialized labor. Alternatively, or in addition, each unit can be packaged and quickly moved and reinstalled in less than an hour (e.g., less than two hours). This is illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8E, where a forklift 802 (FIG. 8A) is used to remove a container 804 from an aircraft (or other transportation device) and move the container 804 near the final site. The container 804 can then be unpacked, and one or more racks of folded PV panels can be removed from the container (see FIG. 8B). In one or some embodiments, the folded racks of PV panels can be supported by a structure 822, such as wheels. In this regard, after removing the structure 822 from the container, the structure 822 may be moved via wheels to the final site (see FIG. 8C), lifted at least partially (see the transition from FIG. 8C to FIG. 8D), and then bolted to the ground via one or more bolts 842 (see FIG. 8D), and the structure 822 may then be moved for installation of the PV panels (see representation 850 in FIG. 8E).

[0112] A fully installed PV subsystem is illustrated in the representations 900, 950 of Figures 9A-9B (two rows of PV panels 910 are illustrated in Figure 9A and four rows of PV panels 910 are illustrated in Figure 9B to reduce the connection points of spot generation to the power distribution or grid). In one or some embodiments, wiring 922 from separate sets of PV panels 910 may be connected to a device such as a PCS (not shown in Figure 9A) positioned within the PV container 920. For example, the PV container 920 includes a door 924 that can be opened, through which the wiring 922 may be connected to the PCS. In particular, as shown in Figure 9A, two electrical wires are connected to the PV container 920, one bundle of wires or cable from each set of PV panels 910. In one or some embodiments, the wire bundle may include five wires per frame (e.g., two positive, two negative, and one ground), or there may be more or less than five wires depending on the number of PV strings.

[0113] As described above, the output from the PV panels may be DC power. As such, the PCS (such as PCS 660) may be integrated with the PV container 920, such as being mechanically and / or electrically integrated with the PV container 920. With regard to electrical integration, the DC power input to the PCS (supplied by wiring 922) may be located outside the PV container 920, as illustrated in FIG. 9A , or accessible from outside the PV container 920 (behind door 924). Additionally, the output of the PCS, such as the AC power output, may likewise be located outside the PV container 920, or accessible from outside the PV container 920 (such as behind door 924). In this manner, wiring configuration may be more easily performed due to the integration of the PCS within the PV container 920 and due to the ease of access from outside the PV container 920 to plug in one or more electrical connectors. Additionally, the PV container 920 may include an exposed ground pad that may be connected to earth ground via a ground stake or rod 926 .

[0114] 9B illustrates a diagram 950 depicting eight strings of PV panels 910, each connected to a respective PCS (not shown), illustrating the modularity of a system used to power a microgrid. Additionally, each PV container 920 is associated with two strings of PV panels 910, as illustrated in FIG. 6C, and each PV container 920 includes two PCSs 660. The PCSs 660 convert DC power generated by the PV panels 910 to AC power and transmit the AC power via wiring 980 to the central container 960, which may include a battery and an AC bus (e.g., an AC busbar / rail system), an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 6E. Alternatively, the battery may be located within the container 970.

[0115] Thus, similar to the PV container 920, the central container 960 may accept as input one or more cables (shown as element 980) emanating from the PV containers 920 (four of which are illustrated in FIG. 9B ) configured to transmit AC power into the central container 960. The central container 960 may further comprise one or more output lines configured to transmit AC power to one or more loads. Similar to the PV container 920, the central container 960 may be electrically integrated with wiring. For example, the wiring (see element 980) for inputting AC power may be connected to one or more electrical connectors (e.g., four electrical connectors for four wires emanating from each of the four PV containers 920 illustrated in FIG. 9B ). Similarly, the connectors for outputting AC power to the loads may be located outside the central container 960 or may be accessible from outside the central container 960 (e.g., behind door 962). In this way, wiring configuration can be more easily performed due to the integration of electronics within the central container 960 and due to good accessibility from outside the central container 960 to plug the wiring into one or more electrical connectors.

[0116] In one or more embodiments, the generator may be connected to the BESS subsystem along with multiple PV containers (such as the four PV containers 920 illustrated in FIG. 9B) for a total of five input connections, each operating on AC voltage and having five wires.

[0117] The specially configured containers described herein may aid in the rapid installation (and rapid packaging) of the various parts of the system, including any one, any combination, or all of the PV panels, the battery bank inside the BESS container, and the power conversion system (PCS). The various parts of the system are packaged in sturdy standard ISO / DOT / MILSPEC enclosures, which may allow the various parts to be highly transportable using land vehicles, ships, or aircraft. In one or some embodiments, the installation of the system may require little or no civil construction preparation, and may provide high power densities (kW / m) for the installed solar power generating units. 2 ) and maintain a high energy density (kWh / m 2 Additionally, the system can withstand harsh environments, including chemical and marine environments, as well as wide operating and storage temperature ranges.

[0118] The BESS container provides a large power and energy system size while maintaining a small footprint, yet is lightweight (high power and energy per kilogram), modular, and delivers power from 50 kW to several MW. The system can support distributed microgrid distribution through integration of multiple units of these units and / or generators, providing an efficient electrical network of sources and loads and further increasing reliability. However, if the load requires spot-generation distribution, a waterproof pass-through power port is available on the BESS container, allowing photovoltaic and generator output to enter the container. Similar ports are available on PV containers to connect solar panels to the power conversion system located within the PV subsystem. An example implementation of the physical integration of PV onto a BESS container in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in Figures 9A-9B.

[0119] As described above, the PV panels may be removed from the PV container before installation. Various types of PV panels may be removed / installed. As an example, tri-fold PV panels may be used. Alternatively, the PV panels may be installed without removing them from the PV container. In such situations, the PV container itself may provide one or both of: (i) structural support (e.g., the PV container itself serves as an installation frame for the PV panels) or (ii) electrical connections. For example, FIG. 10A illustrates a diagram 1000 depicting a container 1010 with multiple PV subsystems 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026 installed in a single layer using the container as a support structure for installation. In one or some embodiments, the top of the container may be removed, and one or more PV subsystems 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026 may be folded outward for installation. As shown, the container 1010 may provide structural support. Additionally, wiring integrated with the container 1010 may be used to connect individual ones of the PV subsystems 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026 and / or to serially connect each of the PV subsystems 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026. As shown, Figures 10A-10B illustrate a grid PV.

[0120] 10B is a diagram 1050 depicting a container with multiple PV subsystems 1070, 1072, 1074, 1076 installed in multiple layers using the container 1060 as a support structure for installation. As shown, supports 1080, 1082, 1084, 1086 move the PV subsystems 1070, 1072, 1074, 1076 from a folded position to an installed position (as shown in FIG. 10B). The supports 1080, 1082, 1084, 1086 may include hinges connecting the PV subsystems 1070, 1072, 1074, 1076 to each other (see supports 1080, 1086) or connecting the PV subsystems 1070, 1072, 1074, 1076 to the container 1060 (see supports 1082, 1084).

[0121] In all practical applications, this technological advance must be used in combination with a computer programmed in accordance with the disclosures herein. By way of example only, various devices disclosed in this application may include a computer or may operate in conjunction with (e.g., be executed by) a computer, such as, for example, PCS 104, controller 136 (or control electronics generally), etc. Furthermore, computing functionality may be located within any of the electronic devices described herein. By way of example only, FIG. 11 is a diagram of an exemplary computer system 1120 that may be utilized to implement the methods, including the flow charts, described herein. A central processing unit (CPU) 1122 is coupled to a system bus 1123. The CPU 1122 may be a general-purpose CPU, although other types of architectures of the CPU 1122 (or other components of the exemplary computer system 1120) may be used so long as the CPU 1122 (and other components of the computer system 1120) support operations as described herein. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while only a single CPU 1122 is shown in FIG. 11, additional CPUs may be present. Additionally, computer system 1120 may include a networked multiprocessor computer system, which may include a hybrid parallel CPU / GPU system. CPU 1122 may execute various logical instructions in accordance with the various teachings disclosed herein. For example, CPU 1122 may execute machine language instructions to perform processing in accordance with the operational flows described herein.

[0122] The computer system 1120 may also include computer components such as non-transitory computer-readable media. Examples of computer-readable media include computer-readable non-transitory storage media such as random access memory (RAM) 1126, which may be SRAM, DRAM, SDRAM, or the like. The computer system 1120 may also include additional non-transitory computer-readable storage media such as read-only memory (ROM) 1128, which may be PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or the like. The RAM 1126 and ROM 1128 retain user and system data and programs as known in the art. In this regard, the computer-readable media may include executable instructions for performing any one, any combination, or all of the computer or electronic functions described herein. The computer system 1120 may also include an input / output (I / O) adapter 1102 , a graphics processing unit (GPU) 1114 , a communications adapter 1127 , a user interface adapter 1124 , a display driver 1116 , and a display adapter 1118 .

[0123] The I / O adapter 1102 may connect additional non-transitory computer-readable media to the computer system 1120, such as storage device(s) 1112, including, for example, a hard drive, compact disc (CD) drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, and the like. The storage device(s) may be used when the RAM 1126 is insufficient for the memory requirements associated with storing data for operations by the present technology. The data storage device of the computer system 1120 may be used to store information and / or other data used or generated as disclosed herein. For example, the storage device 1112 may be used to store configuration information or additional plug-ins in accordance with the present technology. Additionally, the user interface adapter 1124 couples user input devices, such as a keyboard 1125, a pointing device 1121, and / or output devices, to the computer system 1120. The display adapter 1118, driven by the CPU 1122, controls the display on the display device 1104 to present information to a user, such as, for example, images generated in accordance with the methods described herein.

[0124] The architecture of the computer system 1120 may be varied as needed. For example, any suitable processor-based device may be used, including, but not limited to, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a computer workstation, or a multiprocessor server. Furthermore, the present technological advances may be implemented on an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a very large-scale integrated circuit (VLSI). Indeed, one skilled in the art may use any number of suitable hardware structures capable of performing logical operations in accordance with the present technological advances. The term "processing circuitry" includes hardware processors (such as those found in the above hardware devices), ASICs, and VLSI circuits. Input data to the computer system 1120 may include various plug-ins and library files. The input data may also include configuration information.

[0125] The above detailed description is intended to be understood as an illustration of selected forms that the present invention may take, and not as a definition of the present invention. It is only the appended claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, it should be noted that any aspect of any of the preferred embodiments described herein may be used alone or in combination with each other. Finally, those skilled in the art will readily understand that, in a preferred implementation, some or all of the steps of the disclosed methods are performed using a computer, such that the methods are computer-implemented. In such cases, the resulting models described herein may be downloaded or saved to a computer storage device.

[0126] The following exemplary embodiments of the present invention are also disclosed. Embodiment 1: A mobile power generation system, one or more shipping containers configured to house, transport, or install the renewable hybrid energy system; at least one or both of at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within one or more shipping containers and installation at an installation site, or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at an installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within one or more shipping containers; at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transport within one or more shipping containers and for storage at an installation site within one or more shipping containers; a mechanical structure for transporting at least one PCS within one or more shipping containers; and at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of one or more shipping containers, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site, the at least one load output connector being configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector.

[0127] Embodiment 2: One or more shipping containers include at least one chassis, and the at least one chassis includes a metal part for electrically connecting to earth ground at the installation site; 2. A mobile power generation system as described in embodiment 1, wherein the at least one PCS is electrically wired to the at least one chassis prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site.

[0128] Embodiment 3: At least one battery subsystem is electrically wired to at least one PCS; 3. A mobile power generation system as described in embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the at least one battery subsystem is electrically wired to the at least one chassis prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site.

[0129] Embodiment 4: Further comprising a DC bus wired within one or more shipping containers; A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the at least one battery subsystem and the at least one PCS are both electrically wired to the DC bus before transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

[0130] Embodiment 5: The at least one PV subsystem and the at least one battery subsystem are both housed within respective shipping containers for transportation; 5. The mobile power generation system of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, further comprising at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to the DC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site, and configured to transmit DC power generated by at least one PV subsystem installed at the installation site and electrically cabled to the at least one DC input connector to the at least one PCS via the DC bus.

[0131] Embodiment 6: The method further comprises: providing an AC bus electrically wired within one or more shipping containers; the at least one PCS and the at least one load output connector are both electrically wired to the AC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; 6. The mobile power generation system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the AC bus is electrically wired to at least one chassis.

[0132] Embodiment 7: Further comprising at least one input connector electrically integrated within or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers; 7. A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein at least one input connector is electrically wired to an AC bus before transporting one or more shipping containers to an installation site and is configured to receive AC power generated by the generator.

[0133] Embodiment 8: Further comprising control electronics for transport within one or more shipping containers and for storage at an installation site within one or more shipping containers; the control electronics are configured to communicate with one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site; A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the control electronics is configured to control one or both of at least one PCS or at least one battery subsystem during work at the installation site.

[0134] Embodiment 9: Further comprising a user interface integrated within or positioned on at least one side of one or more shipping containers; the user interface is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the user interface is configured to perform one or both of outputting the status of at least one PCS or at least one battery subsystem during work at an installation site, or inputting one or more commands to control at least one aspect of the mobile power generation system.

[0135] Embodiment 10: Further comprising one or more sensors positioned within the one or more shipping containers; the one or more sensors are configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein after installation at the installation site, the control electronics is configured to control at least a portion of the mobile power generation system based on sensor readings generated by one or more sensors and transmitted via already configured communication between the one or more sensors and the control electronics.

[0136] Embodiment 11: Further comprising at least one fan; the at least one fan is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; the one or more sensors include a temperature sensor; A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein after installation at the installation site, the control electronics is configured to control the fan based on a temperature sensor reading generated by the temperature sensor and transmitted via already configured communication between the temperature sensor and the control electronics.

[0137] Embodiment 12: Further comprising a user interface integrated into or positioned on at least one side of one or more shipping containers; the user interface is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; the user interface is configured to output a status of one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem during operation at the installation site, or input one or more commands to control at least one aspect of the mobile power generation system; 12. The mobile power generation system of any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein a single side of one or more shipping containers comprises a plurality of intake and exhaust vents and a user interface.

[0138] Embodiment 13: Further comprising a universal power supply (UPS) for transport within the one or more shipping containers and for storage at the installation site within the one or more shipping containers; 13. The mobile power generation system of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the UPS is electrically wired to the control electronics before transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

[0139] Embodiment 14: A mobile power generation system described in any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the UPS supplies power to the control electronics via electrical wiring, and the control electronics is configured to route power from at least one battery subsystem to the UPS.

[0140] Embodiment 15: Further comprising one or more power meters positioned within or on the one or more shipping containers; the one or more power meters are electrically wired prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, whereby power input or power output sensed by the one or more power meters at the installation site is used to control operation of or by the at least one PCS; After installation at the installation site, the at least one PCS may provide power for at least a portion of the mobile power generation system to: One or more power meters sense the power input from a generator or other power source; or A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 14, configured to control based on one or both of: one or more power meters sensing the power output to at least one load.

[0141] Embodiment 16: The one or more shipping containers include a first container and a second container; the first container houses at least one battery subsystem and at least one PCS, the at least one battery subsystem being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; the second container houses at least one PV subsystem; 16. A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the first container further comprises at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the first container, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, and configured to transmit DC power generated by at least one PV subsystem installed at the installation site and electrically cabled to the at least one DC input connector to the at least one PCS.

[0142] Embodiment 17: A mobile power generation system as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the second container houses at least one installation system configured to remove the at least one PV subsystem from the second container and install the at least one PV subsystem at an installation site.

[0143] Embodiment 18: A method of performing one or more of storing, transporting, or installing a renewable hybrid energy system, comprising: transporting one or more shipping containers to an installation site, the one or more shipping containers comprising: at least one or both of at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within one or more shipping containers and installation at an installation site, or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at an installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within one or more shipping containers; at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transport within one or more shipping containers and for storage at an installation site within one or more shipping containers; a mechanical structure for transporting at least one PCS within one or more shipping containers; at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the at least one shipping container, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to an installation site, the at least one load output connector being configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector; removing at least one PV subsystem from the one or more shipping containers; installing at least one PV subsystem; electrically connecting at least one PV subsystem to at least one PCS; and electrically connecting a load to the at least one load output connector such that the at least one PCS routes AC power to the load.

[0144] Embodiment 19: The one or more shipping containers comprise at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; 19. The method of embodiment 18, further comprising connecting a cable from the at least one installed PV subsystem to the at least one DC input connector such that the at least one PCS receives power generated by the at least one PV subsystem.

[0145] Embodiment 20: The one or more shipping containers include a first container and a second container; the first container houses at least one battery subsystem and at least one PCS, the at least one battery subsystem being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; the second container houses at least one PV subsystem; the at least one PV subsystem is removed from the second container and installed at the installation site; the first container further comprises at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers; 20. The method of embodiment 18 or 19, wherein a cable is connected from the at least one installed PV subsystem to at least one DC input connector on the first container.

[0146] Embodiment 21: The second container houses at least one installation system configured to remove the at least 18 PV subsystems from the second container and install the at least one PV subsystem at an installation site; 21. The method according to any one of embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the installation system from the second container is used to remove at least one PV subsystem and install it at the installation site.

[0147] Embodiment 22: The method of any one of embodiments 18 to 21, wherein, as a result of connecting cables from the at least one installed PV subsystem to the at least one DC input connector, the at least one PCS receives power generated by the at least one PV subsystem without requiring additional connection of cable wiring because the at least one DC input connector was already electrically connected to the at least one PCS before transportation.

[0148] Embodiment 23: The method of any one of embodiments 18 to 21, wherein the at least one battery subsystem, after being powered at the installation site, immediately supplies power to the at least one PCS by having the at least one battery subsystem already electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers.

[0149] Embodiment 24: One or more shipping containers are transported with a universal power supply (UPS) located therein; Prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the UPS electrically wires the one or more electronic devices within the one or more shipping containers; A method according to any one of embodiments 18 to 23, wherein after one or more shipping containers arrive at the installation site, the UPS supplies power to at least one battery subsystem without any further electrical connections being made.

[0150] Embodiment 25: A UPS provides power to control electronic devices disposed within one or more shipping containers; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the control electronics are electrically wired to the at least one battery subsystem; A method according to any one of embodiments 18 to 24, wherein after one or more shipping containers arrive at the installation site, the UPS supplies power to at least one battery subsystem via the control electronics without any further electrical connections being made.

[0151] Embodiment 26: One or more shipping containers are provided with a user interface on at least one side; Prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the control electronics are electrically wired to the at least one PCS; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the user interface is electrically wired to the control electronics; A method according to any one of embodiments 18 to 25, wherein after one or more shipping containers arrive at the installation site, a user receives the status of one or both of the at least one battery subsystem or the at least one PCS via a user interface without any further electrical connections being made. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 501 Sealed Container 502 Side 504 Interface 512 BESS Subsystem 514 Sensors 516 PCS 518 Control Device 520 chassis 522, 524, 526 Structure 528 Structure 531 Sealed Container 532 Side 534 Interface 540 PV Subsystem 550 User Interface 551 User Interface 554 AC connector 556, 558, 560, 562 AC Connectors 564, 566, 568, 570 Ventilation holes 580 DC connector 610, 612 Cable 620, 622 Installed PV subsystem 640 PV panels 660 PCS 661 AC Bus Box 663 Door 664 Ground wiring 665 Input Electrical Connector 666 chassis 668 Metal Connector 670 Metal Bolt 674 Metal Stake 680, 682, 684, 686 rails 690 Battery 692 containers 710 Container 720 Overall structure 722 Installation System 724 Connector 726 PV Subsystem 732 Slots 744 Hinge 746 Fasteners 752 Installation position 802 Forklift 804 Container 822 Structure 842 volts 910 PV panels 920 PV containers 922 Wiring 924 doors 926 Ground stakes or ground rods 960 Central Container 970 container 980 Wiring 980 elements

Claims

1. one or more shipping containers configured to store, transport, or install the renewable hybrid energy system; at least one or both of at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and installation at an installation site, or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at the installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within the one or more shipping containers; at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transport within said one or more shipping containers and for storage at said installation site within said one or more shipping containers; a mechanical structure for transporting the at least one PCS within the one or more shipping containers; at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, the at least one load output connector being configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector.

2. the one or more shipping containers comprise at least one chassis, the at least one chassis including a metal portion for electrical connection to earth ground at the installation site; The mobile power generation system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one PCS is electrically wired to the at least one chassis prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

3. the at least one battery subsystem is electrically wired to the at least one PCS; The mobile power generation system of claim 2 , wherein the at least one battery subsystem is electrically wired to the at least one chassis prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

4. further comprising a DC bus wired within the one or more shipping containers; 4. The mobile power generation system of claim 3, wherein the at least one battery subsystem and the at least one PCS are both electrically wired to a DC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

5. the at least one PV subsystem and the at least one battery subsystem are both housed within respective shipping containers for transportation; 5. The mobile power generation system of claim 4, further comprising at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on the at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to the DC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, and configured to transmit DC power generated by the at least one PV subsystem installed at the installation site and electrically cabled to the at least one DC input connector to the at least one PCS via the DC bus.

6. further comprising an AC bus electrically wired within the one or more shipping containers; the at least one PCS and the at least one load output connector are both electrically wired to the AC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; The mobile power generation system of claim 4 , wherein the AC bus is electrically wired to the at least one chassis.

7. further comprising at least one input connector electrically integrated within or positioned on said at least one side of said one or more shipping containers; 7. The mobile power generation system of claim 6, wherein the at least one input connector is electrically wired to the AC bus prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site and configured to receive AC power generated by a generator.

8. further comprising control electronics for transport within said one or more shipping containers and for storage at said installation site within said one or more shipping containers; the control electronics are configured to communicate with one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; The mobile power generation system of claim 1 , wherein the control electronics is configured to control one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem during operations at the installation site.

9. further comprising a user interface integrated within or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers; the user interface is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; 10. The mobile power generation system of claim 8, wherein the user interface is configured to output a status of one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem during operations at the installation site, or to input one or more commands to control at least one aspect of the mobile power generation system.

10. further comprising one or more sensors positioned within the one or more shipping containers; the one or more sensors are configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; 10. The mobile power generation system of claim 8, wherein after installation at the installation site, the control electronics is configured to control at least a portion of the mobile power generation system based on sensor readings generated by the one or more sensors and transmitted via the already configured communication between the one or more sensors and the control electronics.

11. further comprising at least one fan; the at least one fan is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; the one or more sensors include a temperature sensor; 11. The mobile power generation system of claim 10, wherein after installation at the installation site, the control electronics is configured to control the fan based on temperature sensor readings generated by the temperature sensor and transmitted via the pre-configured communication between the temperature sensor and the control electronics.

12. further comprising a user interface integrated within or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers; the user interface is configured to communicate with the control electronics prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers to the installation site; the user interface is configured to output a status of one or both of the at least one PCS or the at least one battery subsystem during operations at the installation site, or input one or more commands to control at least one aspect of the mobile power generation system; The mobile power generation system of claim 11 , wherein a single side of the one or more shipping containers comprises a plurality of intake and exhaust vents and the user interface.

13. a universal power supply (UPS) for transport within the one or more shipping containers and for storage within the one or more shipping containers at the installation site; The mobile power generation system of claim 8 , wherein the UPS is electrically wired to the control electronics prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site.

14. 14. The mobile power generation system of claim 13, wherein the UPS provides power to the control electronics via electrical wiring, and the control electronics is configured to route power from the at least one battery subsystem to the UPS.

15. further comprising one or more power meters positioned within or on said one or more shipping containers; the one or more power meters are electrically wired prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, whereby power input or power output sensed by the one or more power meters at the installation site is used to control operation of or by the at least one PCS; After installation at the installation site, the at least one PCS distributes power in at least a portion of the mobile power generation system to: the one or more power meters sensing the power input from a generator or other power source; or 10. The mobile power generation system of claim 1, wherein the one or more power meters are configured to control based on one or both of: sensing the power delivered to at least one load;

16. the one or more shipping containers include a first container and a second container; the first container houses the at least one battery subsystem and the at least one PCS, the at least one battery subsystem being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; the second container houses the at least one PV subsystem; 2. The mobile power generation system of claim 1, wherein the first container further comprises at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on the at least one side of the first container, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site and configured to transmit DC power generated by the at least one PV subsystem installed at the installation site and electrically cabled to the at least one DC input connector to the at least one PCS.

17. 17. The mobile power generation system of claim 16, wherein the second container houses at least one installation system configured to remove the at least one PV subsystem from the second container and install the at least one PV subsystem at the installation site.

18. 1. A method of performing one or more of storing, transporting, or installing a renewable hybrid energy system, comprising: transporting one or more shipping containers to an installation site, said one or more shipping containers comprising: at least one or both of at least one photovoltaic (PV) subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and installation at the installation site, or at least one battery subsystem for transportation within the one or more shipping containers and storage within the one or more shipping containers at the installation site; a mechanical structure for transporting one or both of the at least one PV subsystem or the at least one battery subsystem within the one or more shipping containers; at least one power conversion system (PCS) for transport within said one or more shipping containers and for storage at said installation site within said one or more shipping containers; a mechanical structure for transporting the at least one PCS within the one or more shipping containers; at least one load output connector integrated into or positioned on at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one load output connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transporting the one or more shipping containers to the installation site, the at least one load output connector being configured to transmit AC power to a load electrically connected to the at least one output connector; removing the at least one PV subsystem from the one or more shipping containers; installing the at least one PV subsystem; electrically connecting the at least one PV subsystem to the at least one PCS; and electrically connecting a load to the at least one load output connector such that the at least one PCS routes AC power to the load.

19. the one or more shipping containers comprise at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on the at least one side of the one or more shipping containers, the at least one DC input connector being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising connecting a cable from the installed at least one PV subsystem to the at least one DC input connector such that the at least one PCS receives power generated by the at least one PV subsystem.

20. the one or more shipping containers include a first container and a second container; the first container houses the at least one battery subsystem and the at least one PCS, the at least one battery subsystem being electrically wired to the at least one PCS; the second container houses the at least one PV subsystem; the at least one PV subsystem is removed from the second container and installed at the installation site; the first container further comprises the at least one DC input connector integrated into or positioned on the at least one side of the one or more shipping containers; 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the cable is connected from the installed at least one PV subsystem to the at least one DC input connector on the first container.

21. the second container houses at least one installation system configured to remove the at least one PV subsystem from the second container and install the at least one PV subsystem at the installation site; 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the installation system from the second container is used to retrieve and install the at least one PV subsystem at the installation site.

22. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein, as a result of connecting the cables from the installed at least one PV subsystem to the at least one DC input connector, the at least one PCS receives power generated by the at least one PV subsystem without requiring additional connection of cabling because the at least one DC input connector was already electrically connected to the at least one PCS prior to transportation.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one battery subsystem, after being powered at the installation site, immediately supplies power to the at least one PCS by the at least one battery subsystem already being electrically wired to the at least one PCS prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers.

24. the one or more shipping containers are shipped with a universal power supply (UPS) located therein; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the UPS is electrically wired to the one or more electronic devices within the one or more shipping containers; 24. The method of claim 23, wherein after the one or more shipping containers arrive at the installation site, the UPS provides power to the at least one battery subsystem without any further electrical connections.

25. the UPS provides power to control electronic devices located within the one or more shipping containers; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the control electronics are electrically wired to the at least one battery subsystem; 25. The method of claim 24, wherein after the one or more shipping containers arrive at the installation site, the UPS supplies power to the at least one battery subsystem via the control electronics without any further electrical connections.

26. the one or more shipping containers include a user interface on the at least one side; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the control electronics are electrically wired to the at least one PCS; prior to transport of the one or more shipping containers, the user interface is electrically wired to the control electronics; 26. The method of claim 25, wherein after the one or more shipping containers arrive at an installation site, a user receives status of one or both of the at least one battery subsystem or the at least one PCS via the user interface without any further electrical connections being made.

Images