In recent years, the adoption of solar energy has seen a tremendous surge, with more households and businesses turning to this renewable energy source. However, simply installing solar panels is not enough for a consistent energy supply. The real magic lies in storing solar power effectively for times when the sun isn’t shining. That’s where a proper solar battery system comes in. This article aims to help you correctly size your solar and battery systems.
The Role of Battery Energy Storage
Store Solar Energy for Later Use
Put simply, a solar battery storage system lets us store excess solar power generated during peak sunlight hours for later use. During the day, when energy production is at its highest, solar panels often produce more electricity than a home or business needs. Instead of losing this excess power, a battery storage system captures it. When night falls or on cloudy days, the stored energy can then be used, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply.
Improve Energy Independence
And battery storage supports energy independence. With a solar and battery system, households and businesses are less reliant on traditional electricity grids. During times of fluctuating electricity prices or unexpected blackouts, a solar power storage setup can protect users from disruptions and high utility bills. For those living in areas prone to unstable weather or energy insecurity, this level of independence is increasingly important.
Advanced Solar Energy Battery Storage Technologies
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice for solar energy storage due to their high efficiency, energy density, and decreasing costs—having dropped nearly 90% since 2010 and 2016. They offer longer lifespans and lower maintenance compared to lead-acid batteries, which are cheaper but bulkier and require more frequent replacement and maintenance. On the other hand, flow batteries, though expensive and less common in residential settings, are well-suited for large-scale energy storage because of their ability to undergo virtually unlimited charge cycles.
Evaluate Solar Panel Output
Solar panels are rated by the energy they produce under ideal conditions. However, geographical location, average sunlight hours, and panel efficiency, among other facors, greatly influence actual output. Say, a 5 kW solar panel system in an area receiving 4-5 sun hours daily can generate approximately 20-25 kWh per day. Tools like the PVWatts Calculator from NREL can estimate these outputs accurately, considering specific local conditions.
Consider the System Depth of Discharge
Depth of Discharge Explained
Depth of discharge (DoD) is the percentage of a battery’s capacity that is used relative to its total capacity. If a battery has a capacity of 10 kWh and you use 8 kWh, the depth of discharge is 80%. Using a battery at its maximum depth of discharge frequently can reduce its lifespan.
Optimal Depth of Discharge for Longevity
Lithium-ion batteries generally offer a higher DoD—often around 80-90%—meaning that more of their total capacity can be utilized without compromising their lifespan. On the other hand, lead-acid batteries perform best at a lower DoD, typically around 50%, which means they need to be cycled more conservatively to last longer.
Calculate Your Solar Energy Battery Storage System
Determine Your Energy Needs
Look at your energy bills to determine average daily and monthly consumption. If you plan to power the entire house through a solar and battery system, the total energy requirement should be considered. However, if only certain essential loads need to be backed up (like lighting, refrigeration, or charging devices), the storage requirements can be significantly reduced. Knowing which parts of your home require power at night will inform how much battery capacity is required.
Calculate Battery Capacity
Multiply your daily energy consumption by the number of days you want the battery to last without sunshine. For instance, if your household uses 10 kWh per day and you want the battery to store enough energy for two days, you need a 20 kWh battery storage system. You must also factor in battery efficiency. A system that operates at 90% efficiency will require a slightly larger capacity to deliver the expected output. Depending on the energy needs and efficiency expectations, a high-capacity solar battery system, like the PVB’s BYES-HV7833, which offers up to 31.33 kWh, can be an optimal choice for larger households.
Final Words
A solar battery storage system has many to offer: energy independence, cost savings, and environmental sustainability. If you are ready to invest in a solar energy battery storage system, Check PVB out. We offer an excellent range of residential storage solutions that can be tailored to fit your specific energy requirements. Whether you need a low-voltage system ranging from 2.66 kWh to 5.12 kWh*15 or a high-voltage system between 3.99 kWh to 7.83 kWh*10, PVB’s advanced options provide reliable, stable power. Featuring high-grade LifePO4 batteries, compatibility with multi-brand inverters, natural cooling systems for optimal heat dissipation, and up to a 5-year warranty, Our solar battery storage systems guarantee efficiency and safety.
