Goodwe Solar inverter review - Updated February 2026
Goodwe have a new all-in-one inverter, battery and backup product...the ESA
Confusingly, the product is actually CEC approved as EHA not ESA and their 3 phase brochure
references ETA models??? Confusing. However I think we'll just call it ESA.
The approved and available models are:
GW5K-EHA-G20 - 5kW single phase.
GW6K-EHA-G20 - 6kW single phase.
GW8K-EHA-G20 - 8kW single phase.
GW9.999K-EHA-G20 - 10kW single phase.
GW5K-ETA-G20 - 5kW 3 phase
GW10K-ETA-G20 - 10kW 3 phase
GW15K-ETA-G20 - 15kW 3 phase
The 3 phase models are now CEC approved.
Western Power and Synergy will likely list them by the end of March 2026 once their network testing has been done
Stock is expected in Perth wholesalers by mid April.
On May 1st 2026, Western Power are expected to relax some regulations about how large a 3 phase inverter you can install.
At present their limit is 15kW, but up to 30kW may be approved from May 1st.
The Goodwe ESA has 20kW, 25kW and 30kW 3ph versions, which cost very little more than the 15kW.
Yes, higher install costs due to larger cables and breakers, but these 'big' inverters are very reasonably priced.
Single phase inverter datasheet here
Three phase inverter datasheet here
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
This product is a copy of Sigenergy's amazingly successful Sigenstor range.
It looks the same, right down to the lights on the front.
5kWh and 8kWh, and soon, 6kWh and 9kWh battery options, mix and match - same as Sigenergy.
Parallel-connected, DC-DC converters (optimisers) in each battery - same.
Thermal resistance panels - same.
Mica sheets between rows of cells - same.
Aerosol fire extinguisher - same.
Pressure relief valves - not the same...Sigenergy don't have this extra safety feature.
There are a few things that I think are BETTER than the Sigenergy products they very clearly copied.
The pressure relief valves in each Goodwe ESA battery for one.
The 5kW 3 phase inverter having 3 x MPPTs is better than Sigenergy's 2 x MPPTs.
The 4 x MPPTs on the Goodwe 10kW and 15kW inverters is better than Sigenergy's 3 x MPPTs.
Goodwe stay with 4 x MPPTs for their 20kW, 25kW and 30kW 3 phase models.
However, the 25kW and 30kW allow parallel strings on 2 of those 4 x MPPTs.
With typically up to 24 panels per MPPT on a three phase inverter, that all adds up to plenty of panel power.
Also, from an installation point of view they have their AC cable plugs at a 45 degree angle.
That is much better, easier to install when working with big cables, and puts less stress on the connector.
Sigenergy should take note of this simple design improvement !
I like the solid metal side of the Goodwe ESA, not the plastic decorative covers that Sigenergy use.
I know Sig used the covers solely to have their 'round the battery' light show going on, but it's much better being solid metal.
For a start the warning labels required with each install, can be stuck to the side of the Goodwe without impacting the appearance overly.
The labels don't stick to the Sigenergy decorative covers.
I like the Goodwe ESA battery DC isolator being easily accessible.
The absolute best thing though is what they have engineered to overcome their 'height problem'.
A full 6x stack of Goodwe ESA batteries with an inverter on top is 2.2m high !!
That pretty much hits the roof of a typical garage especially as there needs to be 500mm air clearance above inverters.
So, they have engineered a split stack using an 'expansion kit'. Clever.
The Sigenergy product has a better app, and a truly amazing 25kW DC fast charger, that is bi-directional.
That turns your EV into a spare battery for the house if needed.
No such thing with anyone else currently, including Goodwe.
(Niche product though at about $5,500 !)
Goodwe's app is ok, not brilliant, but I'm told a new version is coming to level that playing field.
There are a number of factors that make Goodwe ESA a bit cheaper than Sigenergy..
(We are waiting on pricing for the 3 phase Goodwe inverters due April/May 2026).
The 5kW Goodwe single phase inverters are the same as Sigenergy but the 10kW Goodwe model is $775 cheaper.
The 8kWh Goodwe ESA batteries are $900 cheaper than the same sized Sigenergy battery.
Goodwe have 'whole house backup' in-built into the inverter not a separate Gateway.
Still requires installation, but that is about $800 to $900 saving from not needing a Gateway.
(In my opinion a Gateway is a better concept, not putting all eggs in the one basket, and giving much greater functionality).
Goodwe include single and three phase energy meters in the box, Sigenergy charge $150/$250 extra for meters.
All up, with a decent stack of batteries, and backup, the Goodwe option is going to cost a fair bit less.
For the past 14 years I have viewed Goodwe
or email
If you would like us to quote you on a Goodwe inverter, (or any other), please get in touch.
(We are in Perth, Western Australia).
This review was written by Andrew MacKeith, Solar4Ever service manager since 2011.
