What are Solar Batteries?
A solar battery, also known as a solar energy storage battery (system), is a device that stores the excess electricity generated by a solar power system for later use. It allows homeowners and businesses to maximize the utilization of solar energy by storing the electricity produced during the day and using it during the night or when the sun is not shining.
How do Solar Batteries work?
Solar batteries work by storing the excess electricity generated by solar panels in a chemical form. The most common type of solar battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, similar to the batteries used in electric vehicles and portable electronics. Other types of batteries used for solar energy storage include lead-acid batteries and saltwater batteries. When sunlight hits the solar panels, they convert the energy into electricity, which can be used to power appliances and other electrical devices. If the solar panels generate more electricity than is immediately consumed, the excess energy is sent to the battery for storage. The battery then stores the energy for later use, such as during the evening or power outages. During times when the solar panels do not generate enough electricity to meet the demand, such as at night or on cloudy days, the stored energy from the battery is discharged and used to power the home or business. This helps reduce reliance on the electrical grid and can provide backup power in case of outages.
Why get a SOLAR Battery?
Solar batteries allow you to store solar energy to use in the evening and at night and power outages. When you have a battery, you will borrow less energy from the grid and pay less money to your electricity company every quarter on your power bills. Time of Use (ToU) tariffs are becoming more popular. These tariffs charge you high per kWh charges during the peak periods e.g., 5 pm-9 pm. If you don’t have a battery, TOU will increase your bills significantly. However, an appropriately sized battery with sufficient panels can help you during these peak periods and borrow electricity from the grid during off-peak periods. Some batteries have also backup option so if a blackout hits you can still power your home. You can also join Virtual Power Plant supporting your grid whenever they need support. With this one, you will also get paid for it making it another source of passive income.
How to ensure your battery has enough power and enough energy?
Most people end up buying batteries looking at the size without considering their utility. For example, if you buy a Sungrow battery of 8kW and your night usage is 14kW, then your battery won’t pull off your night usage and you end up borrowing an additional 6kW from your grid. Another mistake which we have identified while talking to our customers, they look at the price and buy the battery without considering their actual needs. You should buy the battery by understanding your needs and requirements. Thereafter, you can make a list of pros and cons to finalise the product.