When it comes to installing solar panels on your roof, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your investment. If you’re thinking about solar storage, to find the right option for your home or business, you need to know what you’re looking for in terms of equipment and backup capabilities, added value, and long-term return on investment (ROI). This article will help walk you through the top questions to ask about solar storage so that you can make an informed decision.
What’s the value of solar energy storage?
Solar energy storage can help you save money on your electricity bill. With storage, you can store excess solar power during peak production times and use it later when there’s no sun. For example, if you have a battery backup system that stores solar energy, you could potentially use that energy during peak load hours when there are high rates/charges for using electricity. Batteries allow you to disconnect from utility companies so you don’t have to worry about blackouts or outages.
How much battery capacity do I need?
The amount of battery storage for your solar system will depend on how often you use your solar panels and what time of day. If you plan to store energy overnight, you’ll need a larger battery capacity than if you only plan to store energy during peak hours. Your solar installer can help you determine how much storage is right for your home.
It also depends on your electrical load. If you want to run more electrical appliances at once, then you’ll need a larger battery capacity. Battery capacity is rated in Ah (Ampere-hours). If the Ah rating is high, the longer it will last.
What kind of battery technology should I use?
If you have a solar system installed and think about storage, there are two main battery technologies available: lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Each has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to know what they are before deciding which one is right for your home. Lead-acid batteries are less expensive than lithium-ion ones, but also less efficient and more toxic. They can last for years if taken care of properly.
Lithium-ion batteries are smaller and lighter than lead-acid ones, making them ideal for areas where space is limited. They are also more efficient and require less maintenance than lead-acid batteries. However, they cost significantly more than their counterpart.
Is the battery safe for solar energy storage?
The safety of a battery is essential. It needs to be protected from overcharging and short-circuiting, for example. Researching battery safety is paramount when buying any solar storage product. After all, you don’t want your batteries to burst into flames.
LFP or lithium iron phosphate batteries are more stable and safe than other types of batteries, and less likely to catch fire due to good thermal stability. They also have a lower self-discharge rate than lead-acid batteries. However, they were more expensive. Cobalt-based Lithium-ion is another type of battery that can be used for solar storage applications but this has poor thermal stability which means it could overheat and catch fire.
What is the cost of solar energy storage?
The main cost of installing a solar energy storage system is purchasing it. The purchase price depends on many factors, including your home’s size and how you want to store your energy. If you decide to buy a battery outright, you will have to pay for its installation as well.
Battery costs range from $7000 and can be more than $10,000 depending on your needs. Installation prices vary by region and company. Some companies offer financing options that allow you to pay off your battery over time through monthly installments.
