Solar batteries are a well-known name these days. Almost every solar system has batteries included, which store the captured energy, which can be used at night or when it’s cloudy, and the electricity production reduces.
For most households, energy is consumed early in the morning and later during the day. Using solar batteries helps them use power during these peak hours.
Since the 1950s, this technology has evolved, and it is now more efficient and has gained acceptance all over the world.
This article will try to compile every information related to solar batteries you need to know.
What Are Solar Batteries?
When the sunlight is available during the daytime, solar-powered systems produce and run on electricity generated from the solar panels. At night, when there is no sunlight, or on very cloudy days, this energy captured during the daytime needs to be stored. This storage is done in a solar battery. It plays an important role, especially for an off-grid or standalone solar system.
Energy is stored in the battery during the daytime when the solar panel generates electricity and supplies power at night or during cloudy weather.
Types Of Solar Batteries
Solar batteries come in three main types, each with distinctive requirements. Choosing the best among them depends on cost, lifespan, installation, and other factors we will discuss here.
Lithium-Ion Batteries: It is the most widely used battery used in most devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Lithium batteries are compact and lighter and have a longer lifespan. However, they are a bit more expensive than lead batteries.
Lead Acid Batteries: These batteries are a perfect choice for homes that require a massive energy storage system. They are also the least expensive batteries but have a lower depth of discharge(DoD) and shorter lifespan.
Saltwater Batteries: Unlike lead and lithium, saltwater batteries do not contain heavy metals but saltwater electrolytes. Unlike the other two, you can recycle a saltwater battery, which requires unique disposal methods.
What Should You Look For In Solar Batteries?
You should start with selecting the manufacturer, as due to the solar industry’s growth, you will find several solar companies entering the industry. Look for brand reputation and customer reviews to decide.
The following essential component is the depth of discharge (DoD), the amount of battery capacity used. The higher the DoD, the more it works best.
Then comes power and capacity, which shows the total amount of electricity that the solar battery can store, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It is recommended that your backup system with a high capacity and power rating run your home appliances effectively.
You should also look for a high round trip efficiency, which is nothing but the amount of energy you can use compared to energy stored.
Lastly, you should look for the warranty and the battery life, which are self-explanatory. Usually, batteries last for about 5- 15 years and may require to be changed at least once when installed.
However, with proper maintenance, you can positively improve the battery’s lifespan. Protecting them from extremes like high temperatures and freezing is an excellent way to maintain their efficiency.
What Are The Benefits Of Solar Batteries?
Solar batteries offer you energy security. With a power storage system, you are equipped with energy 24/7, whether power outages or blackouts.
Solar batteries are helpful in areas without access to the grid, preventing any wastage of the solar panels’ excess electricity.
They helps you save money on utility bills and reduce the time your home consumes electricity from the utility company.
You can utilize the excess energy produced during the day to power your home during peak hours, preventing an increase in utility bills.
Lastly, it gets rid of noise and air pollution, which is a massive problem if you rely on generators. Also, solar energy is clean energy, and its production and storage are quiet and friendly to the environment.
Take Away
Solar panels and solar batteries complement each other and broaden their use. You can harvest electricity and store it at night or during peak hours.
Especially if you use an off-grid system, solar batteries are an excellent option to provide energy sufficient to power your home. You just need to invest in an efficient energy storage capacity, for which you can choose to use lithium or lead-based batteries. There are advantages and disadvantages for each that you need to look at.
Lastly, before purchasing the battery check its DoD, capacity, power ratings, and efficiency; you should review the warranty, most importantly.