The Future of Energy in Your Own Home

A new chapter begins for the Kummetz family in their single-family home, built in 2005: they are now producing their own electricity with a photovoltaic system and the modular solar power battery system, EcoFlow PowerOcean Plus. There is more to this decision than just technology: it is about the desire for independence, a more sustainable everyday life and a noticeable reduction in electricity costs. Peter Gutendorf, Chief Product Engineer at EcoFlow, oversaw the solar installation and spoke with the family about their expectations, challenges and initial thoughts.

With an annual electricity consumption of around 12,000 kWh, including charging an electric vehicle, it quickly became clear that a solar system with battery storage made sense, both ecologically and economically. Given rising energy prices, a high level of energy self-sufficiency offers real benefits. “I looked at various providers and did the maths,” says Thomas Kummetz. “With an electricity price of 30 cents/kWh, an 85% self-sufficiency rate and a realistic payback period of around eight years, it was clear that now was the right time.”

The system was installed by Krasniqi from Zusmarshausen, an experienced regional installer with over 120 employees. The chosen solution: EcoFlow PowerOcean Plus: a modular, three-phase high-voltage battery system offering maximum flexibility for future expansions.

Modularity: Each battery module operates independently with its own battery management system and DC/DC converter. Scalability: Initial capacity of 15 kWh, easily expandable to up to 60 kWh. Safety: An integrated fire protection module activates at 170 °C, releasing aerosol to prevent fire before it starts. All-in-One Solution: One inverter for all PV strings, central control via app, built-in backup power function.

The system was commissioned in December, a month typically associated with low PV yields. Nevertheless, the family achieved a self-sufficiency level of over 56%, around half of which was thanks to the intelligent use of the battery storage system. “It's a good feeling to be surprised in winter by how well it works,” says Thomas Kummetz. Smart energy management with dynamic electricity tariffs and automated charging times maximises self-consumption. A pre-set reserve ensures that energy is available even in the event of a grid failure.

The family has an annual electricity consumption of around 12,000 kWh, including charging an electric vehicle. Given this high demand, it quickly became clear that a solar system with battery storage made sense—both ecologically and economically. “What other manufacturer gives you 15 years to decide whether to expand?” Thomas Kummetz answers his own question: ‘EcoFlow gives me exactly that freedom.’

The decision to go with EcoFlow was the result of careful research, clear priorities, and technical conviction. For the Kummetz family, EcoFlow is more than just a supplier, it’s a partner on equal footing. With support from EcoFlow and the Krasniqi installation team, the family has taken its first big step into the energy future: local, sustainable, independent.