Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about PHNXX systems, deployment, and suitability

About PHNXX systems

What is a modular microgrid?

A modular microgrid is a self-contained power system that combines solar generation, battery storage, and optional backup generation. It operates independently of the main grid and provides reliable electricity in off-grid or weak-grid locations. PHNXX systems are containerised and modular, allowing them to be deployed quickly and scaled as energy demand changes.

How do PHNXX systems work?

PHNXX systems generate electricity from solar panels and store excess energy in batteries for use when solar production is low or unavailable. An AI-driven energy management system automatically balances solar, battery, and generator inputs to ensure continuous power. This reduces diesel generator runtime, lowers fuel consumption, and improves overall energy efficiency.

What industries are PHNXX systems designed for?

PHNXX systems provide reliable off-grid or hybrid power for sites with limited or unreliable grid access. This includes agriculture, construction, mining, remote communities, remote infrastructure, defence, and emergency response operations. They are particularly suited to sites currently powered by diesel generators, where solar and battery integration can reduce fuel consumption by 20-40% and improve energy reliability. See how this works in practice in our Case Studies.

Case Studies

Cost and ROI

Is solar and battery cheaper than diesel generators?

Yes, in most cases. Diesel generators carry ongoing fuel, logistics, and maintenance costs that compound over time. PHNXX hybrid systems typically reduce energy costs by 20–40% compared to diesel-only generation, depending on site conditions and load profile. For high-diesel sites — such as a remote irrigation operation spending $285,000 per year on fuel — a PHNXX system can reduce that cost to approximately $85,000 annually, saving $199,655 per year. Solar generation has no fuel cost, and battery storage reduces generator runtime significantly.

What factors affect the cost of a PHNXX system?

System cost depends on factors such as daily energy consumption, peak load requirements, solar availability, battery capacity, and backup generation needs. Site location, transport logistics, and installation conditions may also affect overall project cost. PHNXX systems are modular, allowing system size to match operational requirements.

How long does it take to see a return on investment?

Payback period depends on diesel fuel usage, energy demand, and site operating conditions. For sites with high diesel consumption, payback can be as fast as 2.3 years. For grid-connected operations reducing electricity costs, payback typically ranges up to 6.6 years. Across deployments, PHNXX systems carry a typical ROI profile of approximately 3 years. Systems are designed for a 30-year lifespan, delivering long-term value well beyond the payback period.

Can PHNXX systems be deployed without upfront capital?

Yes. PHNXX systems can be deployed through financing or leasing arrangements that eliminate the need for upfront capital expenditure. Monthly payments can be structured to align with existing diesel or energy costs, allowing sites to transition to solar and battery power without large initial investment. This enables organisations to replace fuel expenses with predictable operating costs while improving energy reliability. Learn more on our leasing page, or contact us to discuss available deployment options.

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Deployment and operation

How long does installation and deployment take?

PHNXX systems are containerised and pre-assembled, allowing rapid deployment once delivered to site. A system can be operational within 12 hours of arrival, with no civil works or ground preparation required. This enables sites to transition quickly to reliable power without construction delays or downtime.

Can PHNXX systems work with existing diesel generators?

Yes. PHNXX systems can operate independently or integrate with existing diesel generators as optional backup power. Solar generation and battery storage provide the primary energy supply, while generators can be used when additional redundancy is required. Learn more about our modular systems on the Our Products page.

Our Products

Can the system be relocated if the site changes?

Yes. PHNXX systems are containerised and modular, allowing them to be relocated using standard site equipment — making them purpose-built for operations that move regularly — construction projects, mining camps, temporary field trials, and mobile operations.

Sizing and suitability

How do I know what size system I need?

System size is based on daily energy consumption, peak load requirements, and operational priorities. PHNXX systems start from 35kWp solar generation, with battery storage from 100kWh — scaling up to 105kWp solar and 2.25MWh of battery storage for larger operations. Multiple modules can be combined to meet higher load requirements. PHNXX assesses site energy usage and load profiles to recommend an appropriate system configuration. Modular design allows systems to be expanded if energy demand increases over time. Learn more on the Our Products page or contact our team.

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What happens when there is no sunlight?

PHNXX systems store excess solar energy in batteries for use when solar generation is low or unavailable. Battery storage capacity ranges from 100kWh to 2.25MWh depending on system configuration, covering overnight demand and extended low-sun periods. Backup generators can also be integrated to provide additional power when needed, ensuring continuous and reliable power regardless of weather conditions or time of day.

For technical support or troubleshooting, please visit our Technical Support page.
Technical Support