Just as it sounds, a solar energy storage device is a battery that is charged using solar energy. These batteries are mostly used alongside solar power systems,due to the fact that they use surplus solar energy for recharging. This article focuses on the types of batteries and the advantages and disadvantages of buying solar batteries.
There exist a number of categories in the solar energy storage sector. There are still others that are emerging as the technology grows and news inventions are made in the field. In this article, the solar storage types will be discussed and explained how they work.
Here are the most popular categories of of solar energy batteries;
- Lead-acid – They are the most popular type. Lead acid batteries are considered to bethe cheaper type, compared to the rest available in today’s market. They have lead plates in water solution(electrolyte) and sulphuric acid.
Lead-acid batteries can be used with on and off-grid systems. These batteries have a top-class deep cycle and require careful maintenance to maximize life span which is around 5 years with an average total daily production of 5kWh.
- Flow batteries – These are emerging batteries in the technology field of energy storage. They consistof a water-based liquid electrolyte flowing between the two separate tanks or chambers within that battery. This means that the flow batteries can last longer and are perfect for large-scale, off-grid systems like wind and solar farms. They have a life span of around 20 – 30 years with average daily production of 5kWh.
- Lithium-Ion batteries – These have become one of the most widely used solar battery banks. They have less weight and high efficiency compared to other types of the batteries. They don’t require water for operations.
- Nickel Cadmium batteries – These types of batteries are extensively used in electronics consumer. They were very common until the early 2000s and late 1990sbut they got phased out amid the environmental concerns in regard to cadmium.
Pros of Solar Batteries
- Energy battery backup in case of a blackout.
- Increased self-reliance on your solar system.
- Saves energy bills by storing power.
- They reduce your carbon footprint.
- Help you become energy-dependent.
- By using solar batteries you become part of a smart-grid revolution.
Cons of using solar batteries
- Energy solar storage is expensive. Owning efficient solar energy storage and a top quality solar battery may prove to be expensive for most users who need it.
- Increased complexity of your solar system. This means things can go wrong in the design, installation, and operation of the battery system.
- Requires careful and increased maintenance. The maintenance cost for a top quality solar energy storage system may be too costly to afford.
Conclusion
The decision of which battery to buy is never easy. Before you make the decision you need to weigh the pros and cons of all the batteries. Take into account the maintenance required and if you have the right environment for storing the battery systems.
