When thinking about switching to a solar energy system, most of us start looking for panels and inverters first. However, there’s one other essential component that flies under most of our radars – solar batteries.
Selecting the ideal solar batteries for your residential solar system can be a complex task. There exists a wide array of solar battery options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
In this guide, we've simplified the key factors to weigh when making your solar battery backup choice for your solar system.
What exactly is a solar battery?
A solar battery stores electricity for backup, ensuring appliances work during outages. Choosing the right one is crucial for efficient and cost-effective solar systems amid the diverse options in the market.
The primary solar battery types for residential systems include tubular lead-acid, lithium-ion, and saltwater batteries.
- Tubular lead-acid: Tubular batteries, unlike flat plate batteries, are larger lead-acid batteries commonly used in UPS and inverter systems.
- Lithium-ion: Lithium-ion, or Li-ion, batteries are rechargeable batteries that store energy by reversibly reducing lithium ions.
- Saltwater batteries: Saltwater batteries are utilised for storing electricity for later consumption. They rely on concentrated saline or saltwater solutions to capture and retain electrical energy.
Guide to Choose a Battery System
Solar products are gaining popularity in Australian households. To find the right solar energy storage system, consider these key metrics when selecting your solar battery.
Battery Capacity Rating
Capacity refers to the amount of electricity (in kilowatt-hours) a fully charged solar battery can store. Opt for a battery with a usable capacity of at least 10kWh for extended home power supply. Focus on the usable capacity if the battery lists both usable and total capacity.
Battery Safety Rating
Solar batteries must meet safety standards for domestic and commercial use. For enhanced safety, opt for a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, as they are more heat-resistant and less prone to fires.
Battery Power Rating
A battery's power rating, measured in kilowatts (kW) or Amps, indicates its capacity to supply power simultaneously. Solar batteries typically have two ratings: continuous power (5kW) and peak power (7kW). For high-power needs, choose a battery with a higher continuous power rating.
Round Trip Efficiency
Roundtrip efficiency reflects the electricity loss during storage and conversion (DC to AC). Opt for batteries with higher roundtrip efficiency to maximise the output per kilowatt-hour stored.
Battery Lifespan
Battery lifespan gauges its durability during regular usage, typically measured in years, cycles, and throughput. Opt for home solar products with warranties ensuring at least 70% capacity retention after 10 years or 10,000 cycles.
Power output
The power output refers to the capacity of the battery to supply electricity at any given moment. This factor is crucial, particularly when powering energy-intensive devices like air conditioners or electric stoves linked to the battery setup.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the right battery for your solar system is vital for efficiency and reliability. Solar batteries play a crucial role in providing backup power during outages. To make an informed choice, consider metrics like capacity, safety, power rating, efficiency, and lifespan, regardless of the battery type.
As solar solutions gain traction in homes, selecting the ideal battery system becomes a key step in securing reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy for the future.
[Disclaimer: The blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. For accurate and up-to-date information on renewable energy, refer to reputable sources and consult with experts in the field.]
Please don’t hesitate to contact Betta Value Renewable Energy if you have any questions about this topic.
