6 Best Solar Batteries

VIA MERCHANT

Buying a Solar Battery?

The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in August 2022 provides government assistance for homeowners who install solar systems, so there’s no time like the present to learn about and shop for solar batteries.

Or perhaps you have an existing system with old batteries that need to be upgraded. Either way, you want to make an informed choice.

Solar properties not tied to the power grid need battery storage to provide electricity when the sun isn’t out. Grid-tied properties don’t necessarily need battery storage, but it’s a good idea because it provides a backup plan during power outages. When used wisely, it can help lower energy bills.

The introduction of the Tesla Powerwall, a stylish, self-enclosed electricity storage system that hangs on a wall, advanced solar battery technology. Today’s solar batteries, incorporating lithium-ion technology, are cleaner and more efficient than the lead-acid ones of the recent past. Many of the newer solar batteries feature integrated system components, such as inverters and charge controllers, which greatly simplify installation.

A solar battery is a big investment, so it’s important to do your homework. Compared to 2015, when Tesla began marketing the Powerwall in earnest, there are a lot of options. Consider these things when shopping:

• Safety: Of the two predominant lithium storage technologies, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) is safer. Batteries using lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) need good ventilation because they run warmer and shouldn’t be placed inside the home. If you want to put the battery in the basement, choose an LFP.
• Capacity: Generally a measure of how much energy a battery stores, it’s one of the factors that determine how long the battery lasts before needing to be recharged. It’s measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
• Power: Measured in kW, this is another factor that determines how long a battery will last. Some batteries have an instantaneous power rating as well as a continuous one. You’ll need high instantaneous power to run a device like a sump pump or well pump that cycles on and off frequently.
• Depth of discharge (DoD): This measures how much of the stored energy is usable. The minimum DoD for a solar battery is around 90 percent, but many approach 100 percent. That means they can be completely discharged without damage.
• Round trip efficiency: Similar to DoD, this measures how much energy the internal processes of the battery consume.
• Lifespan: Battery longevity is commonly measured by the number of charging cycles it can undergo and still perform at an acceptable level. Most solar batteries are good for 3,000 to 5,000 cycles, but more expensive ones may last for as many as 10,000 cycles. Warranty periods are usually specified in years (10 years is standard) and cycles.
• System compatibility: Some batteries only work with equipment manufactured by the same company, while others can be added to an existing system.
• Modular: Some solar battery systems are stackable so you can size the storage according to your needs. Some aren’t.
• Cost: Price is always a consideration, but it’s tied to many variables. You wouldn’t choose a solar battery based on cost alone.