Solar batteries are becoming increasingly prevalent in homes, businesses, and even our vehicles! They’re super-efficient systems for distributing energy and offer eco-friendly ways to keep our homes, businesses, and vehicles running.
However, for a while, solar panels seemed to be lacking a way to store excess energy that we could use on cloudier days – and that, thankfully, is where battery storage arrives to save the day.
Here are some fun facts about solar battery storage you’ll want to keep in mind before buying.
1. What is a solar battery storage system?
Solar battery storage simply allows you to retain excess energy your solar panels generate. The idea is that during bright and sunny days when you generate more power than you are using, you can store that excess for use at a later time. For example, stored power is mostly used during periods of low sunlight or high energy demand.
2. What is the point of a solar battery storage system?
Solar panel battery storage helps to increase the self-consumption of solar energy, instead of you exporting it all back to the grid. This means solar batteries can help you become more energy independent by reducing your constant reliance on the grid itself.
3. Here are the tech specs.
If you’re wondering how solar battery storage works, it’s mostly thanks to lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used specifically in this area due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements.
4. Location, location, location…
Solar battery storage systems are incredibly versatile – you’re free to install them in homes, businesses, and even in large-scale utility projects.
5. You never know when you might need them.
You may be thinking, “when would I ever actually need stored power?”. Well, battery storage can provide backup power during grid outages, months of low sunlight, for example – ensuring a continuous electricity supply.
6. What is time-of-use optimization?
Of course, you don’t have to wait for power outages to use your stored power! Time-of-use optimization is possible with solar battery storage – this means you can use stored energy during peak electricity charge periods, when grid electricity is more expensive.
7. Is it reliable?
One of the biggest issues with solar power is that many complain of its inconsistent
nature. Naturally, the sun is not always shining as bright wherever you go! However, solar battery storage can help smooth out the intermittent nature of solar power. This means that your use of the power can be more reliable and consistent.
8. Let’s go remote!
Many solar battery storage systems have built-in smart technology that promotes remote monitoring and control of energy usage and battery performance! This is a great way to keep an eye on things and be sure of what you have left in the tank.
9. Time to leave the grid?
Solar battery storage is increasingly used to support outdoor recreational activities. This is because such systems provide a reliable and portable power source without needing a connection to the electrical grid, making them ideal for living life away from connections – such as via van on the road!
10. Solar battery storage costs – what are we looking at?
Generally speaking, solar battery storage costs start at around £2,800 (at the lowest level of power, around 5.8 kwh). However, do also remember you’ll need to pay for installation, and what’s more, you may need a more powerful storage system to cover your basic needs. That said, remember that you’ll likely save plenty of money on running costs!
FAQs about Solar Battery Storage
What is the best way to store solar batteries?
Solar batteries ideally need to be placed near their controller. This helps to minimize voltage loss in the transfer of current.
What is the lifespan of solar battery storage?
Generally speaking, the average lifespan of a lead-acid solar battery storage system is between five to seven and a half years. On the other hand, a lithium-ion solar battery storage system can last from around 11 to 15 years.
Are solar battery storage systems worth it?
Yes! While they setting up battery storage may seem expensive at first, they can help to save you a fortune on your general electric bills in a very short space of time. What’s more, they are relatively simple to run!
Do you know any interesting facts about solar battery storage? Share them in the comments below!