The release of the APEX OS v5.0 software for the APEX MCS energy management system represents a major leap forward in microgrid control technology, delivering new features that provide unmatched flexibility, intelligent automation, and industry-leading site management.
With functions not available in competing systems, APEX OS v5.0 sets a new benchmark for reliability, adaptability, and performance. New capabilities include the logic builder for custom automations, push notifications, string monitoring, built-in power quality analysis, and predictive intelligence through machine learning.
The role of the APEX MCS
The APEX MCS serves as the ‘brain’ of the energy system, managing these core assets intelligently. Deployed as a hardware controller on site, it combines on-device software, local data storage and secure cloud backup. All cloud data is automatically stored in secure, region-specific servers (South Africa or Europe), ensuring compliance with local regulations while safeguarding system data through WireGuard VPN.
The APEX OS v5.0 release introduces the following key features:
1. Self-commissioning, enabling user-driven system setup: APEX OS v5.0 now features self-commissioning, giving users the freedom to commission their systems independently. Its self-commissioning capability allows users to connect directly to the controller, configure their system remotely, and bring it online without booking a service visit.
2. Logic builder, remote custom automations made simple: The logic builder gives users full control over how their system behaves. Using if/ then rules, installers and operators can create custom logic to remotely optimise energy flows, manage loads, respond to events, and receive critical notifications via instant messaging platforms.
3. Notifications and triggers: Easily configure alerts, ensuring proactive management by the operator. Because the logic builder is integrated, configurations can be changed remotely in minutes with no need to schedule engineering support. Additionally, push notifications keep users connected to their sites at all times.
4. String monitoring: Troubleshooting solar PV faults is often slow and expensive. V5.0 eliminates manual testing with string monitoring, allowing remote access to detailed performance graphs and heatmaps.
5. Onboard power quality analyser: Power quality issues shorten equipment lifespan and increase costs. Traditionally, detection requires costly external analysers installed only for short periods. With the MCS, this capability is built in as a permanent feature.
6. Predictive intelligence: APEX MCS uses local machine learning to predict and optimise system behaviour. With the release of OS v5.0, the APEX MCS can combine PV forecasts through weather data, load profiles, and tariff structures, allowing the MCS to plan ahead – not just react.
7. Transparent, scalable licensing: Unlike subscription-based competitors, APEX MCS offers once-off licensing fees, making project costs predictable and long-term ownership more affordable.
