Simplest EPS config

I'm awaiting install of 2 x 9.5 batteries and a gen 2 5kw inverter - I'm aware it could be several months. In the interim I'm investigating how to use the EPS functionality, just the most basic install to give some power as the power cuts around here are fortunately minimal. We also have UPS to handle controlled shutdown of home office servers etc.
Is there a simple/cheap way of just powering a couple of emergency sockets adjacent to the inverter without needing a secondary distribution board and isloators etc please? That would suffice initially. Thanks

sponev A simple garage consumer unit with the correct level of protection is £35 from Screwfix - a small fraction of your system cost. It protects your inverter as well as potentially saving your life. It also needs to be installed and signed off by a Competent Person, so best done as part of your system installation to minimise costs.

sponev small CU def best option, but if it's space etc that really is the issue, you could have a sparky install an rcd protected socket.

jd that wouldn't provide overload protection - the inverter has short term protection, with a note in the manual that repeated overloads will damage the inverter. Best to include a suitable MCB as well as the RCD.

stevelewis agreed, only the fuse in the plug! I wonder if someone will make a socket with integrated rcbo

I'm not electrically biased but sounds like a small CU and the help of the qualified electrician at the time of install is the way to go. I'll ask the installer to get the ball rolling. Cheers

Just remember you need to install an earth rod for the EPS to work correctly, so remember to factor this in also if you are adding a small CU to feed sockets etc.
Fitting a a RCD double socket would be enough to run basic stuff, but that would still require a separate earth/rod installed.

DeanoC75 OK thanks for that. I have one for my EV charger so I'll see if they can use that. Cheers.

sponev Whatever device you use should ideally be installed as close to the inverter as possible to protect the cable from the EPS to the devices drawing power. My installer placed a simple switched 13A Fused RCD near the inverter and ran a 6mm cable to my EPS socket in the loft where my router is installed. The 6mm cable is way more than necessary, but the important thing is the 13A fuse to prevent the inverter from (attempting to) supply a load greater than 2.5kW.

Tim A 13A BS1363 fuse will only rupture at 2x rated current after a very long time. It will prevent your cable from going up in smoke, but won't protect the inverter. It's a pragmatic approach for an inaccessible socket in the loft with only a router attached. If we're talking about a double socket (or more) where someone can plug in extension cables, electric heaters, etc, a B Curve MCB will provide better protection for the inverter - and avoid fumbling around for a spare fuse in the dark 😁

I will be sure to discuss these suggestions with the installer and it sounds like something simple and safe can be configured reasonably cost effectively. Thanks again.

Don't forget the extra earth requirements. You can rely on the "grid" for earth if your "off grid"

I believe there should be a not in You cannot rely on the "grid" for earth if your "off grid"