Connecting a Generator to a Solis Hybrid Inverter: Hyundai & Solis S6 Guide
Illustrative scene; final siting and exhaust clearances depend on manufacturer instructions and installer assessment.
Backup power · Hyundai generators · Solis S6 hybrids
Can a generator start automatically when your solar battery runs low? Certain Solis S6 hybrids and remote-start Hyundai generators support the functions needed. The exact inverter, generator revision, start-control interface and electrical design must be checked together.
Before you order: this guide explains control principles and equipment checks. It is not a manufacturer-certified Hyundai/Solis compatibility list. Direct dry-contact compatibility and included control accessories remain subject to confirmation.
In this guide
- Can a generator automatically start when your solar batteries are running low?
- 1. What makes a generator suitable for a hybrid inverter?
- 2. Which Hyundai diesel generators support automatic starting?
- 3. Which Solis S6 hybrid inverters support generators?
- 4. What is the difference between an ATS and a two-wire start?
- 5. What accessories are needed for the Hyundai generators?
- 6. Which generator should I choose for my Solis inverter?
- 7. How much power can the generator actually put into my batteries?
- 8. Does the generator work during a power cut?
- 9. Can I connect the generator directly to the Solis GEN port?
- 10. Does the generator run every time the electricity goes off?
- 11. Important installation and safety requirements in Ireland
- 12. Frequently asked questions
- 13. Choosing your generator and inverter with SolarBoss
Can a generator automatically start when your solar batteries are running low?
Yes. With the right hybrid inverter and generator, you can build a backup electricity system that looks after itself.
Imagine a winter power cut. Your solar panels are generating very little electricity, and your home is running on battery power. As the batteries discharge, your Solis hybrid inverter monitors their charge level.
When the batteries reach a level you choose, the inverter can automatically start a compatible diesel generator. The generator supplies power to supported backup loads and can recharge the batteries. Once the batteries reach the selected charge level, the inverter tells the generator to stop.
No need to go outside in the rain to pull a starter cord.
However, not every generator or inverter can do this. To make the system work properly, you need compatible equipment, the correct starting controls and an appropriately designed electrical installation.
This guide explains the options to investigate in SolarBoss's Hyundai diesel generator range, particularly for owners of Solis S6 hybrid inverters.
1. What makes a generator suitable for a hybrid inverter?
There are three separate requirements to understand.
1. Remote automatic starting
The generator must be able to start and stop when instructed by the inverter. This normally involves a two-wire remote-start input or an appropriate generator control module.
2. Suitable AC electrical output
The generator must provide the correct voltage, frequency, phase configuration and sufficiently stable power for the inverter to accept.
A generator having an AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) is useful, but AVR alone does not guarantee compatibility. Alternator waveform quality, harmonic distortion, frequency stability and behaviour under changing loads also matter.
3. Correct electrical integration
The generator needs an approved connection arrangement, including appropriate protective equipment and a changeover system wherever required.
These distinctions are important. A generator advertised as "ATS compatible" is not automatically ready to connect directly to a solar inverter.
2. Which Hyundai diesel generators support automatic starting?
SolarBoss currently offers five Hyundai diesel models with documented remote-start or ATS capabilities.
| Hyundai generator | Output | Remote-start method | Additional starting equipment |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHY6000SE | 4.5kW continuous / 5.2kW maximum; check supplied revision | ATS-compatible control | Internal ATS module may be required |
| DHY8000SELR | 5.5kW rated / 6kW maximum | ATS-compatible control | Internal ATS module may be required |
| DHY8000SELR-T | Rating depends on single-/three-phase mode and revision | ATS-compatible control | Internal ATS module may be required |
| DHY12500SE | Continuous and maximum ratings depend on revision | Two-wire remote start | Suitable connection cable/control interface |
| DHY18COM-1 | Larger 1500rpm diesel set | Remote start through DSE6120 MKIII controller | Control wiring; additional interface only if specified |
Remote-start capability has been documented for these models. Final AC compatibility with a specific Solis installation remains subject to electrical checks and commissioning.
Hyundai DHY6000SE
View the DHY6000SE on SolarBoss
The DHY6000SE is an enclosed diesel standby generator with a documented 4.5kW continuous output and 5.2kW maximum output, plus an AVR-regulated alternator. Check the rating plate and manual for the supplied revision.
It has provision for an optional Hyundai ATS control module that enables remote starting. Depending on the machine's supplied configuration, the module may need to be fitted before the generator can respond to an external start command.
This is a smaller generator option for modest backup loads or controlled battery charging. Its continuous output and acceptable charging settings should be confirmed before specifying a system.
Hyundai DHY8000SELR
View the DHY8000SELR on SolarBoss
The DHY8000SELR is a 230V single-phase generator with 5.5kW rated output and 6kW maximum output.
Like the DHY6000SE, it supports an ATS control module for remote starting.
It is a useful candidate for smaller single-phase Solis installations, particularly where loads and battery charging can be managed within its 5.5kW rated capacity.
A suitable module and control interface must be confirmed for automatic inverter operation.
Hyundai DHY8000SELR-T
View the DHY8000SELR-T on SolarBoss
This version offers selectable 230V single-phase and 400V three-phase operation.
It also supports remote starting through an appropriate ATS control arrangement.
An important limitation: output depends on the selected phase mode and product revision. One Hyundai manual lists 5.0kW continuous / 5.5kW maximum in single-phase mode and 6.3kVA continuous / 6.9kVA maximum in three-phase mode. Confirm the supplied unit’s rating plate and manual; the total three-phase rating is not available on each phase.
For single-phase installations, the appropriate operating mode and available output must be verified. For three-phase installations, the total capacity and phase loading must be carefully considered.
It should not be assumed that a small three-phase generator can supply a large three-phase hybrid inverter simply because both provide 400V power.
Hyundai DHY12500SE
View the DHY12500SE on SolarBoss
The DHY12500SE is a larger, 230V single-phase standby generator. Published Hyundai revisions differ: some state 9kW rated / 10kW maximum, while newer specifications state 10kW rated / 11kW maximum. Confirm the rating plate, manual and continuous duty rating for the actual unit being supplied.
Unlike the three smaller models, Hyundai specifically documents a two-wire starting option alongside its key-start and ATS functions.
A compatible inverter's voltage-free starting contact can therefore potentially control the generator directly, subject to confirming the terminal arrangement, installed configuration and suitable wiring.
A complete automatic transfer switch is not inherently necessary just to send a starting instruction when using a correctly designed dedicated generator input.
For an 8kW Solis hybrid inverter, this is a capacity class to investigate. The actual continuous output, the exact Solis model’s generator sizing rules and the intended loads must all be checked before it is selected.
Hyundai DHY18COM-1
View the DHY18COM-1 on SolarBoss
The DHY18COM-1 is a larger, 230V single-phase diesel generator with a 1500rpm engine, water cooling and a Deep Sea Electronics DSE6120 MKIII control panel.
The controller supports remote generator starting and operation with compatible ATS arrangements.
With the appropriate control wiring, it can be integrated into an automatically managed power system.
This machine is particularly relevant to larger standby installations or applications involving extended generator running.
Power-rating note: published specifications contain conflicting power ratings; confirm the rating plate and current manual before design.
3. Which Solis S6 hybrid inverters support generators?
Solis manufactures several S6 inverter families, and their generator arrangements differ.
The exact inverter model number matters more than the general description "Solis S6".
| Solis inverter family | Generator integration | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| S6-EH1P(3–8)K-L-PLUS | Dedicated GEN port and automatic start/stop | Suitable starting point for single-phase systems |
| S6-EH1P10K-L-PLUS | Generator integration advertised | Confirm exact hardware revision and manual |
| Documented S6-EH3P 10K three-phase arrangement | Generator via shared grid-side connection | Requires approved grid/generator isolation or ATS; confirm exact model |
| S6-EH3P(8–15)K-L | Dedicated generator input documented | Three-phase generator and appropriate design required |
| Other S6 hybrid models | Varies | Confirm the precise model and manual |
Solis S6 grid-tied string inverters should not be assumed to have the same battery-management and generator-start functions as S6 hybrids.
For a 230V single-phase property, investigate the relevant S6-EH1P-L-PLUS model and its exact manual first.
Solis S6 single-phase PLUS series
The S6-EH1P(3–8)K-L-PLUS range includes 3kW, 3.6kW, 4.6kW, 5kW, 6kW and 8kW versions.
These inverters provide a generator connection and a voltage-free start/stop signal.
The installer must identify the generator start/stop contact and permitted generator connection from the manual for the exact inverter model and hardware revision. Pin assignments must not be carried across from another S6 model.
The inverter can be configured to start the generator at a selected battery State of Charge (SOC) and stop it when the batteries reach a higher SOC.
Explore the Solis S6 5kW PLUS hybrid inverter and Solis S6 8kW PLUS hybrid inverter.
4. What is the difference between an ATS and a two-wire start?
This is one of the most important questions customers ask.
Two-wire start
A two-wire remote-start system usually operates through a simple electrical contact.
When the inverter calls for the generator, its relay closes a contact. A compatible generator controller interprets that as a request to start.
When the inverter no longer needs generator power, the contact opens and the generator controller carries out its stop sequence.
The inverter does not supply the power needed to crank the diesel engine. The generator uses its own starting battery and controller.
ATS: Automatic Transfer Switch
An ATS is an electrical switching system used to transfer a supply between permitted power sources, such as the electricity grid and a standby generator.
A typical mains-failure ATS can detect the loss of mains electricity, request the generator to start, wait for a stable generator output, and transfer the designated loads to the generator.
When grid electricity returns, it can transfer those loads back and stop the generator.
Internal ATS control module
Some Hyundai generators need a small internal module to enable remote starting.
An internal start-control module and a complete ATS changeover switch perform different jobs.
A suitable control module may provide the interface that allows a solar inverter to request generator start/stop without requiring a complete mains transfer assembly.
However, the exact signal compatibility must be established. A generator's ATS connector should never be assumed to accept a voltage-free inverter contact without checking its wiring requirements.
5. What accessories are needed for the Hyundai generators?
DHY6000SE, DHY8000SELR and DHY8000SELR-T
For these machines, a Hyundai-compatible internal ATS start-control module may be required.
Hyundai's technical instructions for the DHY6000SE and DHY8000SELR document an internal six-pin connector used for an ATS control module. This does not establish the same module arrangement for every DHY8000SELR-T revision.
An internal ATS start-control module is an accessory to investigate for selected DHY6000 and DHY8000 machines. The correct part and control interface must be confirmed for the exact generator before ordering. An accessory listing alone does not establish that a module accepts the Solis voltage-free contact.
Before specifying that part for inverter-controlled starting, confirm:
- Whether the generator already contains the appropriate module.
- Which module part is approved for the exact generator revision.
- Whether it accepts the Solis voltage-free start/stop contact directly.
- Whether a separate interface relay or cable is required.
The full mains-transfer ATS assembly is a different accessory and should only be specified where required by the installation.
DHY12500SE
This generator has a documented two-wire remote-start option.
The installation still needs the correct connector, suitable control wiring and confirmation of the manufacturer's starting-contact requirements.
An external ATS is only required where the selected power-transfer design calls for one.
DHY18COM-1
This model includes the DSE6120 MKIII generator controller with remote-start capability.
A correctly configured remote-start connection and any specified control accessories are required.
It does not normally need the smaller Hyundai DHY6000/DHY8000 internal ATS upgrade module.
6. Which generator should I choose for my Solis inverter?
The generator should be sized for the actual load and charging requirement, not simply matched by comparing its maximum kW rating with the inverter's nameplate.
An installer must follow the generator sizing and input-power rules for the exact inverter, allowing for backup loads, charging and surges. Generator continuous output, phase configuration and the inverter’s generator acceptance limits must be assessed together.
| Before shortlisting | What to establish |
|---|---|
| Exact Solis inverter | Full model code, revision, generator input arrangement and permitted sizing |
| Generator rating | Continuous or prime rating for the supplied revision and selected phase mode |
| Essential loads | Running demand and motor starting surges on each phase |
| Battery charging | Permitted generator charging rate, battery limits and inverter conversion losses |
| Starting controls | Compatible contact type, required module, cable and terminal arrangement |
| Commissioning | Stable voltage/frequency under load, protective devices and tested start/stop behaviour |
A maximum or standby rating must never be substituted for the applicable continuous rating. A reduced charging setting does not by itself establish that an undersized generator is permitted.
What about three-phase Solis inverters?
Three-phase systems require particular care.
Solis generally requires a three-phase generator for the GEN input of a three-phase hybrid system.
Of the five Hyundai machines discussed here, only the DHY8000SELR-T provides documented three-phase output.
Its modest overall capacity means it should not be treated as a general-purpose generator solution for 8kW, 10kW or larger three-phase S6 hybrid systems.
Larger three-phase installations may require a different generator model and a different switching arrangement.
7. How much power can the generator actually put into my batteries?
When the generator is running, its available output may need to cover two demands:
Household or backup loads, such as heating controls, lights, refrigeration or other equipment.
Battery charging, where the inverter uses surplus generator power to recharge the battery bank.
As a simplified example, consider a generator with a verified 5.5kW continuous output.
If household loads consume 2kW, approximately 3.5kW remains before inverter losses and other limitations.
That does not mean the batteries will necessarily charge at 3.5kW. Actual charging power depends on the inverter settings, battery charge limits, generator behaviour and system efficiency.
The electrician should configure the generator's rated power and charging limits conservatively, allowing for load changes and starting surges.
A generator operating close to its limit continuously may trip, suffer voltage or frequency instability, or be rejected by the inverter.
8. Does the generator work during a power cut?
Yes, a suitable generator can form part of a hybrid inverter's backup system.
In a typical correctly designed Solis installation:
- The electricity grid fails.
- The Solis inverter supplies supported backup circuits using available battery and solar energy.
- The battery reaches its configured generator-start threshold.
- The inverter requests the generator to start.
- After generator power has stabilised and been accepted by the system, it can support loads and battery charging.
- When the battery reaches the configured stop threshold, the inverter requests generator shutdown.
For illustration, an installer might configure generator starting at 20% SOC and stopping at 80% SOC.
Those are example settings, not universal recommendations.
Important: automatic starting requires the inverter/control system and generator starting battery to remain operational. If the batteries are completely depleted and the inverter has shut down, automatic generator recovery must not be assumed without verifying the system's black-start behaviour.
9. Can I connect the generator directly to the Solis GEN port?
On a Solis model with a dedicated generator input, that is a supported connection approach, provided it is installed according to the applicable Solis manual.
The inverter's GEN port is separate from its backup output and normal grid connection.
The generator output is connected to the designated input through the required protective equipment, and its remote-start control is wired separately.
An inverter with a dedicated GEN port may not require a full grid/generator ATS simply to accept generator power.
By contrast, some Solis three-phase models use a grid-side generator arrangement. These require appropriately engineered isolation or changeover switching between grid and generator sources.
Never connect a generator to a normal household socket, the inverter's backup output, or the live grid supply as an improvised means of supplying power.
10. Does the generator run every time the electricity goes off?
Not necessarily, and that is one of the advantages of using a hybrid inverter with batteries.
For example, during a short power cut, the batteries might have enough stored energy to run the backup circuits without any generator assistance.
The diesel generator stays off.
If the power cut continues and battery charge falls to the programmed threshold, the generator starts.
That allows the battery bank to handle shorter interruptions without starting the diesel engine unnecessarily.
The generator is there to provide additional energy when it is actually needed.
This behaviour depends on the inverter operating mode and correct commissioning. Solis documents GEN-port generator operation primarily for off-grid or grid-outage operation.
11. Important installation and safety requirements in Ireland
A generator and hybrid inverter installation should be designed and commissioned by a suitably qualified electrical contractor, using a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) where required.
The installation must address:
- Correct voltage, frequency and phase matching.
- Generator operating capacity and battery charging limits.
- Appropriate AC circuit breakers, cabling and protective devices.
- Proper isolation from the public electricity network.
- Earthing, neutral handling and RCD protection.
- Generator control wiring and starting-battery maintenance.
- Ventilation, weather protection, exhaust and carbon monoxide risks.
- Applicable Irish electrical and network connection requirements.
Generators must operate outdoors in an appropriate location where exhaust gases cannot enter the building.
Never attempt to connect a generator to a house or inverter by backfeeding a socket.
12. Frequently asked questions
Can any diesel generator charge my solar batteries?
No. The generator needs electrical output acceptable to the hybrid inverter, and the inverter must support charging from an AC generator in its particular configuration.
Do I need a generator with a built-in inverter?
Not necessarily. An appropriately regulated conventional diesel generator may be usable with a hybrid solar inverter, subject to voltage, frequency, waveform quality and manufacturer requirements.
Can a Solis S6 inverter start a Hyundai generator automatically?
Yes, certain Solis S6 hybrids have documented automatic generator-start capability, and several Hyundai generators support remote starting. The actual control interface must be compatible and correctly wired.
Do I need an ATS for automatic starting?
Not always. On a dedicated GEN-port system with suitable two-wire starting, a full mains transfer ATS may not be necessary.
A generator might still require an internal start-control module.
Will the generator run all my household circuits?
That depends on the backup wiring, generator capacity, inverter specifications and whether the installation has been designed for selected circuits or wider premises backup.
Can the generator recharge the batteries while powering the house?
Yes, where supported by the inverter and installation. The available power must be shared between the supported loads and battery charging.
Can I connect a single-phase Hyundai generator to a three-phase Solis inverter?
Not directly to a three-phase GEN input that requires a three-phase generator. A different arrangement would need specific manufacturer approval and electrical design.
What if I have two Solis inverters running in parallel?
Parallel inverter systems need special consideration. Generator input capacity, permitted connection points, master/slave control and start signalling must be checked against Solis's instructions for the exact parallel configuration. Do not assume the single-inverter arrangement automatically applies to parallel systems.
13. Choosing your generator and inverter with SolarBoss
A compatible diesel generator can add another layer of resilience to an existing solar and battery installation.
The key is choosing the right combination of inverter, generator, controls and accessories.
At SolarBoss, we can help customers identify suitable equipment and the technical details their electrician needs to check before installation.
Explore our diesel generators, single-phase hybrid inverters and three-phase hybrid inverters.
Before ordering, have these details ready: your exact inverter model number, whether your property is single-phase or three-phase, the battery system installed, the loads you want to support during an outage, and whether automatic generator starting is required.
SolarBoss can then help narrow down the suitable equipment and outstanding manufacturer compatibility checks.
Technical references
- Solis S6 installation and generator integration guidance
- Solis S6 three-phase 10kW generator function guide
- Hyundai DHY8000SELR / DHY8000SELR-T manual
- Hyundai DHY6000SE/DHY8000SELR ATS module fitting instructions
Technical information reviewed October 2026. Generator and inverter compatibility depends on the exact product revision, installed accessories, firmware and electrical design. This guide is not an installation wiring instruction or a guarantee of compatibility for every combination.