The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Battery Storage for Home
To ensure that you get the best battery backup system for your solar home setup, read The Ultimate Guide To Choosing A Solar Battery Backup System.
Having a backup system to ensure you have a reliable power supply in the event of a grid outage or natural disaster is becoming increasingly crucial as solar power gains popularity.
This manual will give you an in-depth analysis of the various battery backup systems available, their advantages and disadvantages, and the most important considerations to remember when selecting one.
This guide will help you pick the best system for your home, whether you're a seasoned homeowner looking to improve or a newcomer to the world of solar energy.
What is a Solar Battery Backup System?
When the sun doesn't shine, or the solar panels aren't producing enough power, homeowners can rely on their Solar Battery Backup System to keep the lights on. Using a battery, an inverter, and a charge controller, the system can transform the DC power stored in the battery into AC power.
As a result, the technology improves energy security. In addition, it lessens reliance on the traditional grid by allowing homeowners to use their solar panels as backup power in the event of a power outage.
Integrating a Solar Battery Backup System with a new or preexisting solar panel system gives homeowners a stable power supply whenever needed.
How does a Solar Battery Backup System work?
The extra power generated by solar energy can be stored in a battery for later use. The battery can be utilized to power the house when the sun is not available to do so. The solar panels produce electricity, which is then transferred to an inverter/charger to be used.
The DC power is transformed into AC power by the inverter/charger and utilized to run the house's electrical appliances. If the sun's rays generate more power than is required, that surplus is transferred to the battery.
The battery supplies power to the residence when the solar system cannot meet the household's electrical needs due to cloudy weather or excessive consumption.
Types of Solar Battery Backup Systems
The various types of Solar Battery Backup Systems are:
Lithium-ion batteries
These are rechargeable batteries that use lithium ions to store energy. They are known for their high energy density, long lifespan, and low self-discharge rate, making them a popular choice for solar battery backup systems.
Lithium-ion batteries are also lightweight and have a relatively low risk of thermal runaway, making them safer than other types of batteries. However, they can be more expensive than other types of batteries and may require special care and maintenance.
Lead-acid batteries
These are the most commonly used type of batteries for solar battery backup systems. They are known for their low cost, high power output, and long lifespan. Lead-acid batteries are also relatively easy to recycle, making them an environmentally friendly option.
However, they are heavy and may require more maintenance than some other types of batteries. They also have a lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries, meaning more space is required to store the same energy.
Flow batteries
These are a type of rechargeable batteries that use a liquid electrolyte to store energy. They are known for their high energy density and long lifespan, making them a popular choice for solar battery backup systems.
Flow batteries are also scalable, meaning they can be easily expanded to meet the changing energy needs of a home. However, they can be more expensive than other types of batteries and may require special care and maintenance.
How long can you run your home on Solar Battery Backup?
The amount of time your home can run on solar battery backup depends on the size of your battery bank, the size of your solar array, the amount of electricity you use, and the climate where you live.
Generally, a home can run on solar battery backup for several days to several weeks if the battery bank is large enough and the solar array is sized appropriately for the home's electricity needs.
How to choose the best Solar Battery Backup System?
Remember the factors mentioned below to choose the best Solar Battery Backup System.
Energy needs
The first step in choosing the best solar battery backup system is to assess your energy needs. Next, you should determine how much energy you need to store and how long to access that energy during a power outage.
This information will help you determine the size and capacity of the battery you need and the size of the solar panels and inverter required to support your system.
Battery technology
Several types of batteries can be used in a solar battery backup system, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, flow batteries, and more. Each type of battery has its unique benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the type best suited for your needs based on factors such as capacity, voltage, and cost.
Capacity and Voltage
The capacity of a battery refers to the amount of energy it can store, while the voltage refers to the amount of electrical energy the battery can produce.
Therefore, when choosing a battery, you should consider both the capacity and voltage of the battery to ensure that it is capable of meeting your energy needs.
Compatibility
It would help if you chose a battery compatible with the other components of your solar battery backup system, including the solar panels, inverter, and charge controller.
Compatibility is especially important when it comes to voltage and current, so be sure to choose compatible components.
Cost and Financing
The cost of a solar battery backup system can vary widely, so it is important to determine your budget and choose a system that is within your budget.
Financing options, such as loans, tax credits, leasing, and power purchase agreements, can help you spread the cost of your system over time.
Installation
You should choose a solar battery backup system that is easy to install, and that can be completed quickly and efficiently. Some systems may require professional installation, while homeowners with basic electrical and DIY skills can install others.
Maintenance
Finally, you should choose a solar battery backup system that requires minimal maintenance over time. Consider the type of battery you choose, its maintenance requirements, and the ease of replacing components if necessary.
How to install a Solar Battery Backup System?
Planning and preparation
Before installing a solar battery backup system, it is important to plan and prepare. This includes obtaining any necessary permits, researching local building codes, and ensuring you have all the necessary equipment and materials.
You should also choose a location for the battery storage system that is easily accessible and close to your existing solar panels and electrical equipment.
Equipment and materials
To install a solar battery backup system, you will need various equipment and materials, including the battery storage unit, power wall, charge controller, wiring, generator, and other electrical components.
Choosing high-quality equipment that is compatible with your existing solar system and meets your energy needs is important.
Integration with your existing solar system
To ensure that your solar battery backup system operates effectively, it is important to integrate it with your existing solar system. This includes connecting the Tesla battery storage unit to your existing solar panels, generator, and electrical system.
Mounting and installing the battery storage unit
Once you have integrated your solar battery backup system with your existing solar system, you will need to mount and install the battery storage unit. Again, this should be done securely and in a location that is easily accessible and protected from damage.
Running the electrical wiring
After mounting and installing the home battery storage unit, you will need to run the electrical wiring from the unit to the other components of your solar system, including the solar panels, tesla powerwall, inverter, and electrical equipment. Again, using high-quality wiring that meets local building codes and safety standards is important.
Connecting the charge controller
The charge controller regulates the flow of clean energy between the battery storage unit and the solar panels, so it is important to connect it correctly. This typically involves connecting the wiring from the battery storage unit to the charge controller and the solar panels and inverter.
Testing the system
Finally, once you have connected the rooftop charge controller and completed the electrical wiring, you must test the system to ensure it operates correctly.
This typically involves monitoring the flow of energy between the solar battery storage unit, solar panels, and inverter and the battery's voltage and capacity. If everything functions as it should, your solar battery backup system is now ready to use.
Maintenance Tips for Solar Battery Backup System
Check the battery's state of charge.
The state of charge of a solar home battery backup system refers to the amount of energy stored in the backup battery chargers. To ensure the battery functions optimally, monitoring its charge state regularly is important.
This can be done using a battery monitor, which displays the current state of charge in percentage or as a bar graph. Keeping the state of charge within a certain range (usually between 50-80%) helps extend the battery's lifespan and ensures it is ready to provide backup power when needed.
Keep the Battery storage unit clean.
Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the surface of the solar battery storage unit, which can impact its performance. Keeping the unit clean helps maintain its efficiency and reduces the risk of problems arising from debris accumulation, such as corrosion.
Clean the battery storage unit regularly using a soft, dry cloth to avoid damaging any components.
Check for damage
Regularly inspect the solar battery storage unit for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or leaks. These issues can impact the performance of the battery and reduce its lifespan.
If you notice any damage, it's important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid any potential problems.
Monitor the performance
To ensure the solar battery backup system is functioning optimally, monitoring its performance regularly is important. This includes tracking the energy stored in the battery and the amount of energy discharged.
Keeping track of the performance of the battery system helps identify any issues and ensures it is functioning correctly.
Check the charge controller.
The charge controller is a key component in the battery backup system as it regulates energy flow into and out of the battery. Regularly checking its performance helps ensure it is functioning correctly and prevents any potential overcharging or undercharging of the battery.
Signs of a malfunctioning charge controller include the battery overcharging, undercharging, or not charging. If you notice any issues with the charge controller, it's important to have it repaired or replaced.
Have a professional inspection.
Regular professional inspections of the battery backup system can identify any issues and help ensure it functions at its best. A professional inspector can check the battery and its components for signs of wear and damage, ensuring that any necessary repairs or replacements are made.
They can also check the performance of the system and provide recommendations for any improvements that can be made.
Pros & Cons of Solar Battery Backup System
Pros
Energy independence and reliability: Solar backup battery systems allow you to store excess energy generated by your solar panels, providing a reliable backup power source during power outages.
Cost savings: By storing excess solar energy systems, you can reduce your reliance on grid-based power, potentially lowering your monthly electricity bills.
Environmentally friendly: Solar battery backup systems are a clean, renewable energy source, reducing your carbon footprint.
Increase the value of your home: Installing a solar battery backup system can increase the value of your home, making it a smart investment for the future.
Cons
Initial cost: Installing a solar battery backup system can be expensive, making it a significant upfront investment.
Maintenance costs: Regular maintenance is required to ensure optimal performance and extend the battery's life.
Limited energy storage capacity: Solar battery backup systems have a limited energy storage system capacity, which may not be enough to power your entire home during a power outage.
Climate and temperature sensitivity: Battery performance can be affected by extreme temperature fluctuations, which may reduce the overall efficiency and life of the battery.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right solar battery backup system is an important decision that requires careful consideration. With the right system in place, you can ensure you have a reliable power source when you need it the most.
This Ultimate Guide To Choosing A Solar Battery Backup System has provided the information you need to make an informed decision, including the different types of battery capacity, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and the key factors to consider when making your choice.
Following the advice in this guide, you can be confident that you have chosen the right system to meet your energy needs and protect your home from power outages and natural disasters.
In addition, with a properly installed and maintained solar battery backup system, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your home has a reliable power source, no matter what the future holds.
FAQ
How often should I check my Solar Battery Backup System?
Your solar battery backup system should be checked at least once a month for any signs of wear and tear. It's also important to check the system's batteries every few months to ensure they are charged and working properly.
What is the lifespan of a typical Solar Battery Backup System?
The lifespan of a typical solar battery backup system can vary greatly depending on the quality of the components and the care taken to maintain the system. In general, the lifespan of a solar battery backup system can range from 5 to 20 years.
Which is better: a grid-connected or off-grid Solar Battery Backup System?
The answer to this question largely depends on the individual needs of the user. Grid-connected solar battery backup systems are generally more cost-effective and efficient, allowing the user to draw from the on-grid system when the solar system is not producing enough energy in the modules.
Off-grid systems are generally more expensive but may be more reliable in areas where access to the power grid is unreliable or unavailable. Ultimately, the best system for users will depend on their specific needs.
Can I add Battery Backup to my existing Solar System?
Yes, you can add battery backup to your existing solar system. The battery technology used for solar systems differs from the typical car batteries used for backup power.
Selecting the right battery for your existing system is important to ensure compatibility with your solar panels and inverter. You should consult a qualified solar installer or electrician to determine the best battery for your system.
Solar battery technology is one of the core pieces of the electrification and solar power revolution that’s happening right now. Reliable and affordable battery technology, after all, not only helps keep the lights on when the power is out, it can help store solar energy for use when the sun isn’t shining.
Read more about solar batteries for residences in our guide, Solar Batteries for Home: A Comprehensive Guide.
Of course, no battery storage article would be complete without mentioning the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which unambiguously makes battery storage eligible for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) — now at 30% until 2032.
Even plug-in electric vehicles, which use similar energy storage, are playing a significant role in accelerating the advancement of the solar battery.
All of this is leading to significant improvements in battery technology, and drops in battery storage pricing. Likewise, more homeowners are considering battery storage as part of their solar projects. Let’s look at some of the decision factors to consider when helping a customer determine the right battery for their home.
Are batteries worth the cost?
For solar customers truly looking to make the most of their PV system, a quality home solar battery can be a good choice. There’s no sugarcoating that they’re pricey — usually between $10,000 and $20,000 installed — but if a solar customer can afford it, the benefits of installing a solar battery are substantial. And, as mentioned earlier, solar batteries are eligible for a 30 percent federal solar investment tax credit, and many local utilities offer incentives as well, which brings the cost down considerably.
Considering that solar batteries play triple-duty as a power generator for emergencies, can help lower energy bills over the long run, and decrease a home’s carbon footprint, they are often well worth the investment if the adopter plans on keeping a home long term. The payback period for solar batteries can be as little as five years, give or take a year or two depending on other factors such as total system capacity and design and available incentives. Of course, some benefits of solar batteries — such as peace of mind and resiliency — are priceless to some solar customers, and should also be a factor in deciding if solar batteries are worth it.
Of course, knowing ROI and showing ROI to customers are two different things. Aurora’s Energy Storage tool lets you model battery load, system configurations and customization, and more for customers, so they can easily see the benefits.
In addition, the rapid advancements in solar battery technology mean that newer batteries are entering the market while the older ones are still on the shelves. From traditional lead-acid, today’s solar shoppers now have a wealth of battery types, technologies, and sizes to choose from.
There have been numerous advancements in the electrical energy storage industry in the past decade. One of the most notable is the development of modular systems, such as the Tesla PowerWall. These types of batteries have greatly made energy storage more flexible, easy to install and transport, and more affordable to maintain.
If you are looking at battery storage for a solar project, the first thing you need to know is how to choose the right one.
Choosing a battery system
Most people, particularly homeowners, venture into solar power with limited know-how. The market has adapted to their needs by generalizing what a buyer should “expect” when investing in a solar system. This information is not always accurate.
The wealth of solar battery options can make it quite a daunting task. While most people go for a one-size-fits-all approach, this may not always be the best choice.
The problem with one-size-fits-all batteries
There are three good reasons why you should not go for a one-size-fits-all type of solar battery:
The technology the battery uses is rarely ever emphasized. Most one-size-fits-all batteries use lead-acid technology to store energy. This is not the best technology in the market.
These batteries may be bulky in size, but they often lack power storage capacity. The cost rarely ever justifies the power capacity.
These standardized solar batteries are almost always either oversized or undersized. The undersized batteries cannot meet power output demand. The oversized batteries, on the other hand, are not always fully charged, especially in the winter.
The one-size-fits-all battery is touted as the ideal choice for most people because a majority of buyers rarely ever know what to look for. However, it often trades various features and capabilities to meet the minimum requirements of different use cases.
Solar battery specs
All solar batteries are made differently. Some manufacturers use robots, while others assemble batteries manually. The form of quality control can affect the quality of the batteries. Some manufacturers are known to use more lead and heavier grids, which impacts the performance of the cells in the battery. Most importantly, some brands of batteries are tested exhaustively for safety and performance while others are not.
As a result, it is not uncommon for batteries with similar specifications to have different performance and lifespans. Finding the right batteries for your solar setup may mean the difference between good and poor power system performance. It may also mean the difference between negligible or high maintenance.
Here are the most important considerations you should have on your checklist when shopping for a solar battery.
Battery capacity
Batteries are rated in amp-hours, or simply amps. The indicated power rating is typically the fully developed capacity of the battery. This means that it may take tens to hundreds of charging cycles before the battery can reach the indicated full capacity. In other words, it can be misleading to test your battery after only a few cycles of charges.
You do not need to understand the physics behind electricity to estimate your power needs or properly size your batteries. If you already use power from the grid, this guide can help you estimate your power consumption based on your electricity bills.
As a rule of thumb, always estimate your peak power requirements using amp-hours. A battery rated 100 amp-hours, for instance, can theoretically put out 1 ampere of electric energy for 100 hours or 10 amps for 10 hours. When selecting a solar battery, understanding your power needs is the key to choosing the battery with sufficient energy storage.
Note that batteries with long warm-up cycles before reaching full capacity are more likely to outlast batteries that tout a high initial capacity.
Lifespan and charge/discharge cycles
The lifespan of a battery is a crucial factor that manufacturers compete on when designing robust solar batteries. The design process often focuses on making the battery resist heat and cold cycles to deliver peak performance for longer. The type of battery technology also plays a significant role in determining the lifespan of the battery.
Three factors that affect the longevity of a battery that you should check when shopping for one are:
- Depth of discharge:
This is the extent to which the battery is discharged or used, relative to its capacity. Since batteries degrade as they are used, their capacity deteriorates over time.
- Cyclic life:
This is the number of charge and discharge cycles of the battery. During regular use, flooded batteries typically last for between 300 and 700 cycles. Gel batteries can store and deliver peak power for as many as 500 to 5000 cycles. Lithium batteries can last for up to 200 cycles.
- Temperature:
The chemical activity inside batteries increases with temperature. To extend the lifespan of your solar batteries, install them in a temperature-controlled room.
Flooded vs. sealed batteries
Solar batteries can be broadly categorized into two: flooded and sealed.
Flooded batteries are the standard lead-acid batteries used in vehicles and off-grid solar installations. They are affordable, and because they can be easily cleaned and serviced, have longer lifespans. When in use, these batteries generate small amounts of hydrogen gas.
Sealed batteries are also known as VRLA (valve regulated lead acid) batteries. They cannot be serviced or maintained because they are sealed. A charge controller maintains the fluids and plates inside the battery to prolong their lifespan. These batteries do not emit hydrogen gas when in use.
Peak power output
Solar power batteries can be classified by their kilowatt peak or kWp. kWp is the theoretical peak power output of the system in ideal conditions. The peak output is more of a measure of comparison than an absolute unit.
When choosing a solar battery, the kWp rating indicates the highest amount of power it can output at its best performance: the higher the peak power output rating, the better the battery.
Round-trip efficiency
The round-trip efficiency of a battery is the amount of energy that can be computed as a percentage of the energy used to store it. For instance, if 100 kWh of electricity is fed into a battery, and it can only output 90 kWh, the round-trip efficiency of the battery would be 90% (90 kWh / 100 kWh x 100).
Always go for batteries with a higher round-trip efficiency because they are more economical.
Ambient working temperature
Ambient temperature is the average air temperature surrounding the battery, or the temperature of the room in which the battery is installed. The rating indicates the optimum temperature under which the battery will perform normally.
The ambient working temperature of a solar battery is a crucial rating that is often overlooked. This is particularly important for people living in regions with extreme temperatures.
Brand and warranty
Many different manufacturers are competing to develop the ideal solar battery. Their design and manufacturing processes differ, and as such, the final products are also different.
Brand is an important factor when choosing solar batteries. Your priorities and budget should dictate whether to buy a battery developed by a new startup or a major automotive company. Regardless of your choice, be sure to scrutinize the warranty details and go for the product that offers the most extended guarantee.
Cost
The prices of solar batteries range widely. The cost of solar batteries ranges between $200 and $750 per kWh. Lead-acid batteries on average cost around $260 per KWh and lithium-ion batteries average at $271 per KWh. This brings the total cost of the batteries to between $5,000 and $7,000. The actual prices may vary depending on your location and available brands.
Note that the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) provides an incentive for installing a solar power system in the US. Again, the tax credit for installing a residential solar system is 30% until 2032 thanks to the ITC update.
The different types of solar batteries
The type, or technology, is the most crucial consideration when shopping for a solar battery. Your budget and specific needs should determine the type of battery that you choose.
1. Lead-acid
Tried and tested, lead-acid batteries are the standard for electrical energy storage. This type of battery has been around since it was invented in the 17th century, yet it is still the most used in storing power. Until five years ago, these were the only practical batteries that could be used to store electricity for domestic or industrial use.
Pros of lead-acid batteries
The most notable strength of lead-acid batteries is that they are affordable. They are widely installed in rural and remote areas because they are cheaper to buy than to pay for a power mains grid extension.
Lead-acid batteries are deep-cycle batteries, meaning that they can output steadily over a long period. Their discharge rate is constant. These batteries come in both flooded and sealed varieties. They both work on the same principle.
Cons of lead-acid batteries
At first look, lead-acid batteries are dull — they are bulky, ugly, and heavy. Because they take up a lot of space and their ambient working temperature is below room temperature, they must be installed in a climate-controlled shed.
Where lead-acid batteries are used
Lead-acid batteries are the first choice for an off-grid solar system installation. Their price, and stability, make them very dependable and easy to upgrade or replace. Most emergency power backup systems in the country also still use lead-acid batteries.
2. Lithium-ion
Li-ion batteries are becoming popular because they are the go-to power storage for electric vehicle manufacturers. The potential of lithium-ion as an energy storage medium is yet to be fully explored, but they are promising. However, at the rate that they are being improved, it is just a matter of time before they become the most popular battery for solar power storage. Tesla’s Powerwall battery is the most popular power storage solution that uses this technology.
There are two types of Lithium-ion batteries in the market. The first, and most popular among electric vehicle manufacturers, is the NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) chemistry type. The other is LiFePO 4 (lithium iron phosphate) type battery.
The NMC-type battery has a high cycle life, making it ideal for use in off-grid installations. LiFePO batteries perform exceptionally well in extreme temperatures, making them suitable for use in regions with extreme temperatures
Pros of lithium-ion batteries
Li-Ion batteries require minimal to no maintenance. They have a higher battery energy density. This means that a Lithium-ion battery can store more energy than a lead-acid battery of the same physical size.
Because they have longer life cycles, they have longer lifespans and higher depth of discharge. The Lithium-ion battery can deliver between 4,000 and 6,000 cycles at an 80% depth of discharge and still last for up to 15 years.
Cons of lithium-ion batteries
The main downside of Lithium-ion batteries is that they are expensive. They cost as much as double the price of lead-acid batteries with similar energy storage capacity. These batteries, unlike lead-acid batteries, are also very fragile and require a stabilizing circuit to ensure safe operation.
Where lithium-ion batteries are used
Lithium-ion batteries have found a home in the automotive industry. The demand for this battery is at an all-time high as electric vehicle manufacturers jostle to get a hold of it.
3. Flow
Also known as redox flow, the flow battery is a new entrant into the solar battery race. These batteries use a water-based zinc and bromine solution and vanadium to store electrical charge. There are only a handful of companies making this battery today, the most notable being Redflow, an Australian company.
Pros of flow batteries
Flow batteries are highly scalable. This means that the capacity and outputs of the battery can be increased or reduced proportionally to the battery size. They differ from the other batteries on this list in that deep discharge has no effects on the performance or lifespan of the battery. They have a long life cycle and very low self-discharge. It is also noteworthy that flow batteries do not heat up during use.
Cons of flow batteries
The fluids used to make the flow battery are prohibitively expensive. While the technology on which they work has been around for decades, these batteries are barely known in the mainstream because few companies produce them commercially.
Because of their chemistry, flow batteries are bulky. The zinc and bromine elements in the battery are also highly corrosive and toxic.
Where flow batteries are used
Flow batteries are ideal for use in situations where the batteries undergo multiple charge/discharge cycles every day. They are ideal for use in large-scale installations.
4. Sodium-nickel chloride
The sodium nickel chloride battery is a formidable competitor to the lithium-ion battery. This energy storage uses a unique chemistry that makes it fully recyclable. It does not emit toxic chemicals and presents no heating or fire risk. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, sodium-nickel chloride batteries do not require sophisticated cooling systems to work efficiently.
Pros of sodium-nickel chloride batteries
Because of its chemistry, the sodium nickel chloride battery is safe and reliable. It can operate optimally even at extreme temperatures of between -4°F and140°F. The batteries are fully recyclable because they have no hazardous or toxic chemicals in them.
Cons of sodium-nickel chloride batteries
They have a limited lifespan of about 3,000 cycles and only an 80% depth of discharge. This means that as much as 20% of the power it stores cannot be used. These batteries are also quite costly to install, particularly for residential solar systems and large projects.
Where sodium-nickel chloride batteries are used
Sodium Nickel Chloride batteries are best used in large installations in solar off-grid power installations and emergency power backup systems.
Battery types comparison
Lead-acid
-
-
The cheapest in the market
Easy to maintain; sealed lead-acid batteries require no maintenance
Highly reliable
Easily recycled or disposed
Bulky, and take up a lot of valuable storage space
Short lifespan of between 1000 and 3000 cycles. On average, a lead-acid battery can last for 5 to 8 years
Shallow discharge depth of ~60% and an ambient temperature of 70º
Good for off-grid solar systems and e
mergency power backup storage
-
Lithium-ion
-
-
Require minimal to no maintenance
High battery energy density saves space
Longer life cycles and lifespans
Highest depth of discharge
Relatively expensive
Relatively fragile and must be enclosed in metal
Use an electronic circuit to provide a stable power output
Good for electric vehicles, r
emote cameras, and drones
-
Flow battery
-
-
Can provide over 10,000 cycles with negligible loss of efficiency or storage capacity.
Fast recharge rates
Little to no heat or fire hazard
Relatively expensive
Hard to dispose of and non-recyclable
Good for large-scale installations
-
Sodium-nickel chloride
-
-
Safe and reliable
Can operate normally even in extreme temperatures
Recyclable
Short lifespan
Shallow 80% depth of discharge.
Relatively expensive
Good for large-scale installations, p
ower backup systems
-
Conclusion
The right battery and size for your customer depends on their specific power needs. Most first-time buyers use a solar battery storage analyzing tool to get faster and more accurate estimates.
The most highly recommended battery for most industrial and residential installations today is the lithium-ion battery. As the battery technology evolves, the batteries are getting more compact, power-dense, and cheaper.
If the budget is tight, or you need to install a basic solar system, then lead-acid batteries can be just as good. However, because environmental factors directly impact the performance and longevity of these batteries, be sure to weigh its features against expected consumption and climate, among other factors.
Schedule a personalized demo to learn more about how Aurora can help you add battery storage to your offerings.
FAQs
Do solar panels have batteries?
Solar panels themselves do not contain batteries. Solar panels produce electricity from the sun, and this energy is either immediately consumed or stored in external batteries for later use.
What type of battery backups do solar systems use?
The most commonly used batteries in solar are:
Lead-acid
Lithium-ion
Flow batteries
Sodium-nickel chloride
What is the best way to choose a battery system?
When choosing a battery system, it’s important to balance two key factors:
How much storage does the customer need? For example, a battery for providing a few hours of electricity during the evenings will look a lot different than a battery meant to power a home through a week-long natural disaster.
What is the solar customer’s budget? If money is tight, you might still be able to get the power needed with several tradeoffs.
Which type of batteries last the longest?
Lithium-ion batteries will last the longest and perform the best over the course of their service life.
Which battery chemistry is safest?
Lithium-ion batteries — and more specifically, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries — are the safest batteries on the market today.
How many solar batteries are needed for my home?
To determine how many batteries needed for the solar project, calculate your total daily electric requirements (measured in watt hours, or Wh), multiplied by how many days of electricity you need the battery to store.
For example, for a 30 kWh home to run two days on battery power alone, the house would need six 10 kWh batteries.