Update: Solar App Monitoring Features

For clients currently using the MySunPower app, please see the below memo regarding the app and future updates.

You may have seen the latest communication from SunStrong monitoring. SunStrong is the organization that purchased the SunPower app suite in the sale of SunPower’s assets. We are happy to see that, as expected, they are not ending the app and will continue to host the servers and make this data/app available going forward. However, they are going to be charging for “premium” access to the app, which includes some of the features you may currently have access to. See their full notice below with what is included in their basic package and what is included in their premium package. 

Please also know that they are ending cellular connection support. Systems will be required to be connected by either ethernet or wifi going forward. You can use this link if you need support connecting your system.

BASIC FEATURES (Included at no cost):

• Live system monitoring – See your current solar production in real-time
• System health alerts – Get notified about communication issues or device problems
• SunVault management – Control your battery settings, view status and performance
• WiFi management – Being able to connect your monitoring system to WiFi through guided in-app flows

Note: These features may not work correctly and your system may not function properly if you don’t subscribe to cellular service OR switch your connection to WiFi/Ethernet/PLC as described above.

PREMIUM FEATURES ($9.99/month or $99.99/year):

• Historical performance data – Track and analyze your system’s past performance
• Panel-level monitoring – View individual solar panel performance
• Production and consumption analytics – Understand your energy usage patterns
• Monthly performance reports – Receive detailed summaries of your system’s operation

IMPORTANT CHANGES COMING

We are making two key changes:

1. Removing support for free cellular connectivity on July 8th
2. Introducing paid options later in June to maintain cellular service ($59.99/year for solar only, $149.99/year for solar + battery) and access enhanced analytics and historical data ($9.99/month or $99.99/year)

ACTION REQUIRED: WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE?

Your solar system’s cellular connectivity will be discontinued on July 8th. Without immediate action, systems that rely on cellular communication may suffer permanent hardware damage that limit its ability to produce energy.

This potential damage stems from firmware that was pre-existing before SunStrong Management began supporting this infrastructure. We want to help you protect your investment.

STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR SYSTEM:

Option 1: Switch to WiFi, Ethernet, or Power-Line Communication (PLC)

• No additional cost and prevents hardware damage
• Maintains system monitoring
• Setup Instructions: See the System Monitoring section on this page.

Option 2: Subscribe to Cellular Service through the SunStrong Connect app

• Available in late June through the SunStrong Connect app
• Ideal for customers who cannot use WiFi/Ethernet/PLC or want cellular as backup
• Pricing for cellular connectivity to maintain monitoring and prevent system damage:
  • $59.99/year for solar only
  • $149.99/year for solar + battery

CONSEQUENCES OF NO ACTION BY JULY 8TH:

• Potential hardware damage: Potential permanent internal component failure
• Future data: No new system production data collected during disconnection period
• No system monitoring: Loss of health alerts and performance tracking
• Repair issues: Solar installation and repair companies unable to access data to help diagnose issues and faults

NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP?

If you’re unable to connect via WiFi, Ethernet or PLC by July 8th and do not want to pay for cellular connectivity, you should consider contacting a qualified technician in your area to help you connect your system.

APP SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE MODEL REMINDER

To support ongoing infrastructure costs, we’re also introducing a paywall to some existing features within the SunStrong Connect app. This approach maintains core features at no cost, while offering advanced capabilities for customers seeking deeper insights. You will be able to pay for these features in the SunStrong Connect app late June.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do I know if I need to take action with my system connection?

A: First check your system connection type by tapping the Profile icon at the bottom of the screen:

If you see any of these connection types, no action is needed:

• WiFi
• Ethernet
• Power-Line Communication

If you see any of these connection types, action is required:

Q: Will the web portal still be available?

A: No, the web portal is no longer supported. Please use the mobile app for all monitoring needs.

Q: How do I reset my password?

A: To reset your password: (1) Click “Forgot Password” on the mobile app login screen, (2) Enter the email address associated with your account to receive a reset link, and (3) After resetting your password, be sure to log in through the mobile app.

Q: I’ve experienced login issues before – have these been resolved?

A: Yes, recent app updates have resolved previous login issues. If you experience any difficulties, simply update to the latest app version and try logging out and back in.

Q: Why did I stop receiving reports and panel-level data in the app?

A: Some customers have stopped receiving reports and panel-level data. For reports, you can restore access by going to Profile -> Reports and toggling the reports setting off and back on. These temporary issues do not impact your system’s performance.

Q: What happens if I don’t subscribe to premium features?

A: You’ll maintain access to basic features at no cost, including:

• Live system monitoring to view current production
• System health alerts about device issues
• SunVault management (battery control and status)
• WiFi management

However, you will lose access to historical data, panel-level monitoring, detailed analytics, and monthly performance reports.

Q: How can I get my system serviced if I’m a cash or loan customer?

A: If you’re a cash or loan customer not serviced by SunStrong, we recommend contacting qualified solar professionals in your area for system maintenance or repairs. You can find a directory of licensed solar service providers in your region by visiting our solar service provider directory.

Please note: The information provided above came directly from SunStrong: see here.

SunStrong Management does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the work of any third-party service provider. This information is provided solely as a resource to assist you in your search. We encourage all homeowners to conduct their own research. 

Please note that even without the premium access, you will be able to see your system’s status and energy in real time. SunPower’s monitoring devices had either a 5 or 10-year warranty as these are essentially computers, and software/hardware on this kind of technology changes in time. If you are not interested in paying for the subscription, but want additional access to more solar system insights, see options below.

Next-Steps:

Do nothing and continue to get app access with basic features for no cost. For additional insights in this scenario, you can use utility data as supplemental information to get net energy usage (note this is real-time / NET data only). Learn more about net metering here.

Change out your SunPower monitoring device for another monitoring device (depending on the specific materials on site, you may be able to get this changed out for as low as $899.) For most clients, especially those with microinverters, Enphase app would be most appropriate. See special instructions about that Enphase package below.

Contact:

This is the best information SunStrong has made available, and any other questions on items not addressed here should be communicated to SunStrong directly at [email protected]

How can I get Enphase Monitoring? Enphase Monitoring can be added to home solar systems (with or without batteries) that meet the following requirements: 

I have a SunPower system on my home. Enphase Monitoring is not available for commercial solar systems. 

I own, or have a loan for, my SunPower system. For lease or PPA systems, contact your leasing company. 

Enphase can only support Enphase and Tesla battery storage systems at this time. You can stay informed of our options at enphase.com/support/sunpower. 

How much does it cost? The Enphase Monitoring Kit is $899 plus tax per gateway. It includes equipment and installation services. An Enphase technician will visit your home to install the kit and connect your SunPower system to the Enphase Monitoring Platform. 

How do I get started?  To get started, complete the Enphase Monitoring Kit request form.  After completing the form, you will receive two emails: A link to enter your payment details and an introduction to the Enphase App 

Next-Steps: 

After signing the service agreement and submitting your payment details, we’ll process your order, and your equipment will be shipped. Once the equipment arrives (usually within two weeks), we’ll reach out to schedule your installation. If you have further questions, visit the SunPower System Owners Support or call (510) 945-6752.

After purchasing the Enphase monitoring kit, our scheduling department will contact you approximately 6-8 weeks after the purchase date to arrange a site visit by an Enphase technician. During this visit, the Enphase technician will install the kit and connect your SunPower system to the Enphase Monitoring Platform. If you do not receive contact for an install date within 6-8 weeks from the date of purchase, please email us back at [email protected] or call us at (510)945-6752. 

Contact:

We understand you may have many questions, and we’re here to provide as much clarity as possible. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and explain the process in detail. For any assistance with your order or to avoid any confusion, please call us at (510)945-6752.  

What is the Enphase App?

About the Author

EmPower Solar’s mission is to power everything with clean, renewable energy. Since 2003, the company has helped thousands of New York homeowners and businesses save money and reduce emissions through the installation of 50+ megawatts of distributed solar. EmPower Solar is the preferred choice of customers who are looking to power their lives with clean energy, and delivers on its promise of total home electrification by offering solar, battery storage, and EV charging solutions supported by world-class customer service.