Following the successful market launch of Multi Device Control (MDC), KOSTAL Solar Electric GmbH is systematically expanding the system. With software update 3.07.00.25789, the central inverter control extends beyond the previous PLENTICORE configuration: in addition to further compatible devices, installers and system operators benefit from a higher-level Modbus TCP interface, expanded consumption metering, and additional system monitoring functions.

Previously, MDC was primarily designed for multi-device systems with up to three inverters from the PLENTICORE G3 and PLENTICORE MP G3 series. With this update, KOSTAL significantly broadens the application scope of MDC for residential and commercial PV and storage projects.

Key features of the MDC update at a glance

• PIKO CI G1/G2 and PLENTICORE BI 25 G3 integrated: Commercial inverters from the PIKO CI family (Generations 1 and 2) as well as the PLENTICORE BI 25 G3 can now be integrated as MDC clients, visualized, and controlled centrally. Additionally, like any PLENTICORE G3, the PLENTICORE BI 25 G3 can be deployed as a master.
• Up to four MDC clients: The MDC host can now group up to four MDC clients within the local network.
• Central Modbus TCP control: The entire multi-device system can be controlled via a single interface. Control commands are transmitted via Modbus TCP according to the KOSTAL Modbus specification, Chapter 3.6, exclusively to the MDC host, which then distributes the setpoints to the connected clients.
• Enhanced consumption visualization: A single load or an entire load circuit can now be specifically visualized via the MDC host. Supported devices include:
  • KOSTAL Smart Energy Meter (KSEM)
  • Shelly Gen2/Gen3
  • Shelly 3EM (Gen2)
  • Shelly Pro 3EM (Gen3)
  • Shelly Plug S Gen3
  • Shelly Plug M Gen3
  • TQ-Systems SU100, MU103, and EM410
• Advanced system monitoring: If a client connected via the device manager drops offline, the MDC host reports this via event code EC8005.
• Dynamic electricity tariffs in additional markets: Integrated support for dynamic electricity pricing has been expanded to the Baltic states.

Proven core MDC functions remain the foundation

The core principle of Multi Device Control remains unchanged: a PLENTICORE G3 acts as host and coordinates the overall system—without requiring external energy manager hardware.

• Flexible battery management: A battery storage system connected to the host is supported by default. With the optional "Battery Control with MDC" extension, up to three storage units—one per inverter—can continue to operate with synchronized SoC utilization. Backup power is provided by the battery connected to the host.
• LAN-based networking: Communication between MDC devices takes place across the local network. The energy meter is connected via RS485; clients communicate with the host via LAN. Setup and configuration are handled via the web interface.

The MDC update is available immediately with software version 3.07.00.25789 for the PLENTICORE G3 via the KOSTAL Solar Electric download area.