SG-Ready

SG-Ready is a label for heat pumps with an interface through which they can process signals from the PV system, energy manager or grid.

SG stands for "Smart Grid", i.e. an intelligent electricity grid. The SG Ready label is awarded by the German Bundesverband Wärmepumpe (Federal Heat Pump Association) to heat pump series whose control system can be addressed from the outside via a defined interface. The klimaaktiv guide lists the label as recommended equipment for using variable tariffs.

How it works

The heat pump receives signals via simple switching contacts, for example from an energy manager or inverter. According to the association, there are four operating states for the classic interface for heating heat pumps:

1. Blocked for a maximum of 2 hours
2. Normal operation
3. Increased operation as a switch-on recommendation
4. Definitive start command

In state 3 or 4, the heat pump charges the hot water cylinder or the house a bit more, for example, when there is currently plenty of solar power available.

Why you need it

• More self-consumption: If you have a PV system, the heat pump can specifically store more heat when there is a surplus. See Photovoltaic self-consumption.
• Flexible tariffs: With tariffs that have variable prices, the heat pump's operation can be shifted to cheaper hours.

What you should look out for

SG-Ready on its own does not do anything yet. It requires a device that sends the signals and a sensible configuration. During the handover, ask to be shown how the interface is used in your system, see after installation.

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