What is solar energy storage?
Solar energy can feel like a complex subject at times; thankfully, we’re on hand to simplify things. In our latest blog post, we’re delving into everything you need to know about solar panel storage. From understanding the storage options available to you and solar panel batteries to the benefits of solar storage, we’re about to break it down.
Let’s start with the basics. In simple terms, solar energy storage allows you to store the electricity generated from your solar panels for use later. By utilising solar energy storage, you can make use of the sun’s energy even when it’s dark outside.
Solar panel storage options
You’ll be glad to know there are numerous solar panel storage options on the market worldwide, with offerings varying significantly on price and capabilities. With options from Tesla and Puredrive, several reputable companies are offering quality solar storage options.
The current cost of solar storage options ranges from around £1,200-£6,000. The price is often dependent on the capacity, its chemical composite and its lifecycle. As we see more manufacturers making solar batteries, the price is expected to naturally decline, as we saw with the cost of solar panels over the years.
When determining which solar storage option is best suited to you, it comes down to several deciding factors such as cost, usage and capacity. To explore your options further, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team, who are on hand to guide you through the decision-making process.
Solar panel batteries
The use of solar panel batteries will allow you to go truly off-grid. The idea of a solar panel battery is to ensure your solar panel setup is entirely self-sufficient. In a nutshell, without batteries, you’re building a solar power system; with batteries, you’re going off-grid. When paired with an existing PV array set-up, adding a solar battery into the mix is a straightforward task with plenty of benefits.
When installing a solar battery as part of your solar panel system, you’ll essentially be storing excess solar electricity at your home rather than sending it back to the grid. Energy will only be transferred back to the grid once your battery is fully charged, and you’ll only take electricity from the grid when your battery requires a charge.
There are two types of battery installation available: DC and AC systems.
DC battery systems are connected directly to the solar panels before the electricity generation meter, eliminating the need for an inverter. According to the Energy Saving Trust, DC systems aren’t charged from the grid.
AC battery systems are connected after the electricity generation meter, meaning you’ll also need an AC-to-DC power unit which will convert the electricity you generate into AC to use.
Solar banner batteries are either lead or lithium-ion batteries. There are several fundamental differences between the two based on lifetime, system efficiency, safety and depth of discharge. So, while researching batteries may not seem like the most exciting topic, it’s worth doing so. Alternatively, you can leave it to our knowledgeable team to guide you along the way.
Benefits of solar storage
Several benefits come from utilising solar storage in your home or at your business as with solar panels.
Solar storage may save you money
Solar storage will allow you to reduce the electricity you use from the grid, cutting the cost of your bill. If your home is entirely off-grid, it can help you to reduce your use of fossil fuel backup generators, again saving you money.
With that said, if you’re at home a lot during the day and use a large proportion of the electricity you generate during daylight, then a battery may not be the best option for you. It would be best if you took the time to consider your usage and how long it will take you to reap the benefits from your initial investment.
Solar storage is good for the environment
Of course, not everything is about money. If you’re keen to go green and do your bit for the environment, then solar storage is good news. Thanks to the development of solar storage technologies over the years, you have plenty of options when it comes to long-lasting and environmentally friendly ways to store and manage your energy.
As you switch to a solar battery, you’ll be taking a big step to becoming self-sufficient, reducing your reliance on the high-cost, polluting energy providers you’re currently using.
Solar storage helps you make use of the excess electricity you generate
As you’ll be saving your solar power, you’ll have the freedom to use it at any time based on your specific needs. As mentioned previously, this excess electricity may come in handy if there’s a local power outage, as you’ll have your in-house backup power.
Solar storage could also make you money
The good news keeps coming. If you’re generating and storing more power than you’re currently using, you can make money from it. With Social Energy technology, you can sell any surplus energy back to the grid for others to use and get paid for it. The Duracell Energy Bank is compatible with several apps that will allow you to monitor, balance and control your energy use from your smartphone, letting you take control.
To us, the ability to make use of excess solar power that would otherwise go to waste is a game-changer.
Solar storage requires little maintenance
While you’ll be paying out for the initial installation, you’ll be glad to know that solar storage requires little maintenance. Dubbed as a ‘fit and forget’ solution by Which?, they often come with lengthy warranties and minimal upkeep.
If you’re still unsure if solar panel storage is the right option for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch. As always, we’re here to help.
