How can a solar battery be of benefit to you?

What is a Solar Battery?

A Solar battery is a device that allows for the storage of DC electricity. This stored electricity can then be converted into AC electricity and used at a later date around the home. It is usually used to store Electricity produced by your Solar Panel system that is surplus to the amount of electricity your home is consuming in that moment.

 

Why is this beneficial?

By having a storage facility for electricity any excess DC electricity produced by your Solar Panel system can be stored for use at a later date. Therefore, during adverse weather conditions or at night time when your Solar system is not producing, there will be an existing supply of electricity to use at no cost to you. Some batteries also allow for partial usage during complete power cuts as well. Furthermore, it means you are receiving the full price benefit for the electricity you are producing.; many energy tariffs will pay for your excess produced electricity, however it is usually a fraction of the amount you would pay for using electricity from the grid.  

 

What to consider when choosing a Solar battery?

Deciphering all the specifications of all the batteries on the market can seem overwhelming. However, below are the key features to look for and take into account when choosing the most appropriate battery.

Warranty- The majority of companies will offer at least a 5 year guarantee with the option of a 10 year extended warranty at an extra cost. Some companies may detail their warranty as a ‘number of cycles’. This refers to the number of times you can discharge and recharge a battery. 

Depth of Discharge- This refers to how much electricity a battery can discharge in relation to its overall capacity. Overtime, the amount of electricity a battery can discharge in relation to its overall capacity will most likely decrease. In view of this it is usually most advantageous to choose a battery with a depth of discharge value closest to 100%.

Battery Size- Battery's can come in all different sizes with varying Kwh. A bigger battery may not always be better if your home is already using most of the electricity your Solar Panel system is producing. Some companies offer batteries that can be stacked. This means you can start off with a small amount of storage and add more later if required. 

 

There are many things to consider when choosing a battery system. Contact Lawson Solar Solutions for a friendly chat and some free advice.