There are typically two types of electricity supplies in Australia.
The first, and most common for residential properties, is referred to as 'single phase'. The less common, for a residential properties, is 'three phase', below is a short explanation on both types.
If you're not sure which one you have, there's also a brief explanation on how to identify this below.
Single phase
Single-phase power is an alternating current (AC) electrical power distribution system that uses one conductor or wire. It is commonly used in residential settings and small businesses for powering everyday appliances
Three phase
Three-phase power is a common type of alternating current (AC) power system that uses three separate conductors or wires, each carrying an AC voltage that is 120 degrees out of phase with the others. This system is more efficient and reliable than single-phase power, especially for larger electrical loads.
How to identify whether you have single phase or three phase
To identify if your property has single-phase or three-phase electricity, check your switchboard.
Single phase mains switch
Single-phase systems have one main switch and one fuse cartridge.
Three phase mains switch
Three-phase systems have three switches and three fuse cartridges. It'll be very obvious when comparing to these photos.
So, why is it important?
Each phase can cater for a maximum of 5kW of power. A single phase can therefore cater for a maximum of 5kW of power, whereas three phases can cater for a maximum of 15kW.
An easy way to evaluate the impact of this would be if you had a 15kWh battery.
In order to charge or discharge that battery on a single phase 5kW connection, it would take a minimum of 3 hours i.e. 5kW per hour x 1 phase x 1 hour = 5kWh, therefore 3 hours are required to charge / discharge 15 kWh.
Now, if you attempted to do the same with a three phase supply, this could be done in as little as 1 hour. 5kW per hour x 3 phases x 1 hour = 15kWh.
You can still install a single phase inverter and battery on a three phase energy supply; the inverter is simply added to one of the three phases. The battery and inverter will still work as normal - charging at a maximum of 5kW on that single phase.
If you install a three phase hybrid inverter and a three phase battery, it means you'll be able to take advantage of all three phases for charging and discharging from the grid.