GoodWe ET Series 20kW Three-Phase Commercial Hybrid Inverter Setup Guide
Updated 6 September 2026 · By SolarNevs Research Desk, Dealer surveys + verified sources · 4 sources · Method ↗
Key Takeaways
- GoodWe ET Series are three-phase hybrid inverters suitable for commercial applications, integrating solar, battery, and grid power.
- Monitoring is primarily through the SolarGo app for local access and the SEMS Portal for web-based plant management.
- Common fault codes like 'Fac Failure' (Error 03) or 'Vac Failure' (Error 15) often relate to grid instability and may resolve automatically.
- Safety-critical faults such as 'Isolation Failure' (Error 14), 'Ground Failure' (Error 22), or 'PE Loss' require immediate professional intervention.
- Specific 20kW model technical specifications and detailed inverter settings are not publicly documented in available manufacturer sources, requiring reliance on installer-provided information.
Understanding the GoodWe ET Series 20kW Commercial Hybrid Inverter
The GoodWe ET Series comprises three-phase hybrid inverters designed for commercial applications, integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) generation, battery storage, and grid interaction. These inverters manage power flow to maximise self-consumption, provide backup power, and support grid stability. While the GoodWe ET Series includes various models, specific technical specifications for a 20kW variant are not detailed in the available manufacturer documentation. This guide focuses on general setup principles, monitoring, and common troubleshooting applicable to the ET Series, drawing on information for associated GoodWe monitoring and control systems.
How GoodWe ET Series Hybrid Inverters Operate
GoodWe ET Series hybrid inverters function by converting direct current (DC) from solar panels and batteries into alternating current (AC) for consumption by loads or export to the grid. In a hybrid setup, the inverter dynamically manages energy sources based on programmed priorities, battery state of charge (SOC), and grid conditions. During grid outages, these inverters can provide backup power to designated loads, drawing from the battery and solar array. The system's performance and status are monitored through dedicated applications and web portals, which also facilitate fault diagnosis.
Monitoring and Initial Setup for GoodWe ET Series
Monitoring and initial setup for GoodWe ET Series inverters primarily involve the SolarGo app for local interaction and the SEMS Portal for comprehensive web-based plant management. The system may also integrate with a data logger such as the EzLogger Pro, which is part of the SEC1000 Smart Energy Controller.
Monitoring Platforms and Tools
- SolarGo app: This mobile application allows local connection via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to view parameters and alarms.
- SEMS Portal: Accessible at
semsportal.com, this web portal provides a comprehensive overview of the power plant, including an "Alarms" tab for fault monitoring. - ProMate software: Used for monitoring and configuring the SEC1000, this software allows acquisition and setting of inverter parameters via a computer.
Data Logger Connectivity (SEC1000)
The SEC1000 Smart Energy Controller, which integrates the EzLogger Pro datalogger, supports various communication interfaces:
- Ethernet: 1 × RJ45, 10 / 100 Mbps.
- RS485 interfaces: Three interfaces are available.
- The SEC1000 can support a maximum of 60 inverters.
WiFi LED Status Indicators
The WiFi LED on your GoodWe inverter or data logger provides visual feedback on its network connection status:
WiFi LED Status | Meaning | Troubleshooting Action |
|---|---|---|
Solid on | Connected and communicating with SEMS Portal. | Everything is working as expected. |
Slow blink (0.5s on, 0.5s off) | WiFi module is not connected to your router. | Follow the reconnection guide for your specific model. |
Medium blink (2.5s on, 2.5s off) | Connected to your router but cannot reach the SEMS server. | Check your internet connection for external connectivity issues. |
Off | WiFi module is not active. | A WiFi reload may be required; long-press the Reset button for 3+ seconds. |
Common Fault Codes and Troubleshooting for GoodWe ET Series
GoodWe ET Series inverters display various error codes to indicate operational issues. Understanding these codes is crucial for effective troubleshooting.
Code / Alarm Name | Meaning | Fix Direction |
|---|---|---|
Fac Failure (Error 03) | Grid frequency is outside the permitted range. | The inverter restarts automatically within five minutes once frequency normalises. If persistent, contact your installer. |
Vac Failure (Error 15) | Grid voltage is outside the permitted range. | The inverter restarts automatically when voltage drops. This is often caused by high network voltage during peak solar hours. |
Isolation Failure (Error 14) | Ground insulation impedance between the PV array and earth is too low. | Contact your installer. Possible causes include degraded cable insulation, moisture in a rooftop DC isolator or MC4 connector, or a panel junction box fault. |
Ground Failure (Error 22) | High ground leakage current detected. | Contact your installer. This is a safety-related fault indicating current is leaking to earth through the PV array or wiring insulation. Do not ignore. |
GFCI Failure | The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) detection circuit has failed. | Contact your installer. The safety monitoring circuit itself has a fault, meaning it cannot properly detect earth leakage. |
Utility Loss | Grid disconnection; no mains supply detected. | Check your main switchboard circuit breakers. Confirm if there is an area-wide outage. If the grid is available and the code persists, check the Solar Supply Main Switch (SSMS) and inverter AC isolator. |
PV Over Voltage (Error 17) | DC input voltage from the solar panels exceeds the inverter's maximum limit. | Contact your installer immediately. This should not occur in a correctly designed system. Do not restart without professional inspection. |
Temperature Too High (Error 18) | Internal temperature has exceeded the safe operating limit. | Check ventilation around the inverter. Clear any debris, spider webs, or vegetation within 300mm of the heatsink fins. |
PE Loss | Protective Earth connection lost. The inverter has detected a problem with grounding. | Contact your installer. This is safety-critical. It could be caused by a loose terminal, corroded conductor, or damaged earthing system. |
Battery BMS Communication Failure | The inverter has lost communication with the battery's management system. | Check that the BMS communication cable between the inverter and battery is securely connected. If secure, restart the battery following its manufacturer’s procedure. |
Battery Voltage Too High | The battery voltage exceeds the inverter's maximum battery input specification. | Contact your installer. This should not occur with a correctly configured compatible battery. The battery type selection in the inverter settings may be incorrect. |
Battery Voltage Too Low | The battery voltage has dropped below the minimum operating threshold. | If the battery has been fully discharged or disconnected, it may need to be manually restarted. Some lithium batteries require a minimum voltage before the inverter can communicate. |
Battery SOC Low | Battery state of charge is critically low. | The battery will stop discharging when it reaches the minimum SOC threshold. It will recharge from solar when generation resumes. |
Back-up Overload | The load on the backup output exceeds the inverter's rated backup capacity. | Reduce the load on your backup circuit by turning off high-draw appliances. The inverter's backup output has a lower power rating than its grid-connected output. |
Battery Over-temperature | The battery temperature exceeds the safe operating range. | Check ventilation around the battery installation. Ensure nothing is blocking airflow. If persistent, the installation may need modification. |
Battery Under-temperature | The ambient temperature is too low for the battery to operate. | The battery will resume operation when it warms up. Most lithium batteries will not charge or discharge below 0°C to 5°C. |
BMS Status: Abnormal | The battery management system is reporting a fault condition. | Contact your installer or battery manufacturer. The specific fault will be detailed in the battery's own monitoring system or app. |
SOC Reset to 95% | The battery state of charge has been automatically reset to 95%. | This typically occurs when BMS communication drops out with lithium batteries. Re-establish BMS communication (check cables) and the SOC will recalibrate over a few charge-discharge cycles. |
Installation
[!CAUTION] Always isolate all DC and AC electrical supplies and use insulated tools before undertaking terminal connections. Safety and Switchgear Requirements Installation and maintenance of GoodWe ET Series inverters, particularly in commercial settings, require strict adherence to safety protocols and local electrical standards. All work must be performed by qualified personnel.
Mandatory Safety Procedures
- Qualified Personnel: Installation and maintenance must be performed by qualified personnel in compliance with local electrical standards and regulations, and the requirements of local power authorities.
- Isolation: To avoid electric shock, ensure that the connection between the inverter and AC output, and the inverter and the grid, is disconnected before performing any installation or maintenance.
- Do Not Touch Electrical Parts: When in operation, users should not touch any electrical parts of the SEC1000, such as internal components or cables, to avoid electric shock.
- Earthing: The Protective Earth (PE) cable shall be connected first when installing the equipment and disconnected last when removing the equipment.
- Grid Connection: All electrical installations must comply with local electrical standards and obtain permission from local power authorities before the SEC1000 can be connected to the grid by professionals.
- Three-Phase Four-Wire Grid: The SEC1000 supports the three-phase four-wire grid structure only, which means a Neutral wire is necessary.
- Inverter Disconnection: Inverters must disconnect when voltage, frequency, or leakage current drifts outside limits mandated by relevant standards. This is a safety feature.
- Internal Access: Never open the inverter cover or disconnect DC connectors yourself. DC cables from solar panels carry dangerous voltage during daylight hours. Opening the unit is authorised-service work.
What the published sources do not tell you
The provided manufacturer documentation and support resources offer general information about the GoodWe ET Series and detailed insights into monitoring and error codes. However, there are specific details for the 20kW ET Series commercial hybrid inverter that are not publicly documented:
- Specific 20kW ET Series Inverter Specifications: Detailed technical specifications such as precise power ratings, MPPT voltage ranges, number of MPPTs, efficiency, dimensions, weight, backup power capacity, or specific battery compatibility for the 20kW model are not available. The SEC1000 is a Smart Energy Controller, not the inverter itself, and its manual does not provide these inverter-specific details.
- Dual MPPT Confirmation: While the ET Series is generally known to feature dual MPPTs, explicit confirmation or detailed specifications (e.g., voltage ranges per MPPT) for a 20kW model are not provided in the whitelisted sources.
- Backup Switching Details: The exact mechanism and specifications of the "backup switching" functionality for the 20kW ET Series are not detailed.
- Installation Instructions for 20kW ET Series: While the SEC1000 manual provides installation details for the controller, specific installation instructions for the 20kW ET Series inverter itself are absent.
- Specific ET Series Inverter Settings: Detailed settings for battery charge/discharge parameters, grid interaction settings, or specific operating modes for the 20kW ET Series inverter are not available in the provided documentation.
- Firmware Update Procedures: Although general firmware update methods for ET/EH/EHB/EM/BH hybrid series (SolarGo app or remote) are mentioned, specific instructions or version numbers for the 20kW ET Series are not provided.
- Warranty Information and Certifications: General warranty information or specific certifications for the 20kW ET Series inverter are not listed in the provided sources.
Due to these gaps, installers and system owners should consult the specific product manual provided with their 20kW GoodWe ET Series inverter or contact GoodWe technical support for precise specifications and configuration details.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary monitoring platform for GoodWe ET Series inverters?
The primary web monitoring platform for GoodWe ET Series inverters is the SEMS Portal, accessible at `semsportal.com`. For local monitoring and parameter adjustments, the SolarGo app can be used via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
What does an 'Error 03: Fac Failure' indicate on a GoodWe ET Series inverter?
An 'Error 03: Fac Failure' indicates that the grid frequency is outside the permitted range. The inverter is designed to restart automatically within five minutes once the frequency normalises. If the error persists, contact your installer.
How do I troubleshoot a 'Battery BMS Communication Failure' on a GoodWe ET Series inverter?
First, check that the BMS communication cable between the inverter and the battery is securely connected. If the cable is secure, restart the battery by following its manufacturer's shutdown and restart procedure. If the issue persists, contact your installer.
What does a 'Temperature Too High (Error 18)' fault mean for a GoodWe ET Series inverter?
This error indicates that the inverter's internal temperature has exceeded its safe operating limit. Check the ventilation around the inverter and clear any obstructions like debris, spider webs, or vegetation within 300mm of the heatsink fins.
What are the safety requirements for installing a GoodWe ET Series inverter?
Installation and maintenance must be performed by qualified personnel in compliance with local electrical standards and regulations. It is critical to disconnect AC output and grid connections before any work to avoid electric shock. The PE cable must be connected first during installation and disconnected last during removal.
References
- GoodWe Technologies Co., Ltd. GW_SEC1000_User Manual-EN.pdf — accessed 29 August 2026
- GoodWe Technologies Co., Ltd. GW_SEC1000_Datasheet-EN.pdf — accessed 29 August 2026
- GoodWe Technologies Co., Ltd. GW_SEMS Portal-User Manual-EN.pdf — accessed 29 August 2026
- PSW Energy - GoodWe Error Codes — accessed 29 August 2026
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