Solar Batteries Guide 2023: Types and Cost

Is Solar Battery Storage System Essential?

Solar battery is a common term that you come across whenever you’re talking about a solar panel system. They are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners across the US. Solar batteries can be paired with your solar panel system, which creates what is known as a hybrid solar system. A solar battery typically works by storing the excess amount of energy generated by your solar panel system. There are several advantages to pairing your solar panel system with a solar battery.

If you already have a solar panel system installed, perfect. You just need to have the batteries integrated into the existing system. However, if not, you can always buy them together and have them installed simultaneously. Different installers offer different types of solar batteries and panels at different rates. To find the one most suitable for you, request quotes from several installers to compare.

Requesting quotes is albeit a lengthy process. You spend hours calling one installer after the other, explaining your requirements, and requesting quotes. At GreenMatch, we make the process simpler for you. All you have to do is click on the button below. We will get you in touch with up to 3 certified installers and get their quotes for you to compare.

How do Solar Batteries Work?

Solar panels generate most of the electricity during the middle of the day. It is also the time of day when you’re using the least amount of energy. As a result, when connected to batteries, the excess amount of energy generated is stored in the batteries instead of being sent back to the grid.

As the sun goes down and the production of electricity reduces and eventually stops, the energy stored in the batteries is used to power your home. This allows you to use clean, renewable energy throughout, without having to pay for the energy from your local grid. It also leaves you independent of the grid during power outages.

Why Do You Need Solar Battery Storage System?

Pairing solar batteries with solar arrays is a relatively new practice, but an effective one. You can benefit from solar battery storage in 4 key ways:

• Store energy for later use
• Significantly lower your energy costs
• Earn money by selling stored energy to the grid
• Become independent from the grid

Firstly, a solar battery stores the energy generated during sunlight hours and makes it readily available for use during non-production hours, such as at night or on cloudy days. By making use of photovoltaics you can essentially run your home on 100% renewable solar energy around the clock, as long as electricity demand does not exceed the supply that the battery can provide.

In addition, solar battery backup power can lower your energy costs significantly. By charging the solar battery during off-peak hours and discharging it during peak hours, you can avoid paying a lot for electricity from your utility company. The savings from this can serve towards reducing your battery system costs.

What’s more, you can sometimes earn money by selling the energy stored in your solar battery back to the electrical grid when electricity prices are at their highest—if your energy provider accepts the exporting of stored energy.

Finally, by adding a solar panel battery to your solar system, you can choose to be independent of the national grid at any time, thereby ensuring energy security for your household. Naturally, the question of how many solar panels you need to install for this will vary depending on your energy demands and budget.

When Is It Ideal to Install One?

A solar battery storage system is best used in combination with a solar PV array. Luckily, if you already have an existing array, it is a relatively simple task to add a solar battery into the mix. And if you have neither, the two systems can be bought in tandem to make your home run entirely on renewable energy.

The two technologies complement each other to bring down your storage system costs by making your solar panel array vastly more efficient. If you have been considering going green, there is no better time to start taking advantage of the money you can save on your monthly electricity bill.

Solar battery storage systems offer a variety of types of batteries for you to choose from, along with many advantages, like more eco-friendly efficiency, longer lifespan, and easier installation.

If you don’t have a solar panel system, you can purchase a battery by itself and charge it with energy from the grid. This would not be a solar battery solution but it can be another way to reduce your costs if you charge your battery during low peak times.

Are you looking to buy a solar battery storage system for your solar system? You’ve come to the right place. GreenMatch will get you in touch with up to 3 certified installers along with their quotes for you to compare. Simply click on the button below and fill out the form. Our service is free with no obligation.

The Solar Battery Types for Residential Use

There are four main types of batteries used for solar systems:

• Lead-acid batteries
• Lithium-ion batteries
• Nickel cadmium batteries
• Flow batteries

Of these four, flow batteries are the latest to join the solar battery club. These batteries, however, are more beneficial for commercial, large-scale use instead of residential use. This is mainly because of their large size and higher expense.

Similarly, nickel cadmium batteries, also known as nickel batteries, are highly durable and can operate under extreme temperatures. Their durability makes nickel batteries the best option for large-scale installations instead of residential use.

We will be discussing the other two batteries in detail to give you a fair idea of what you would be getting into. Knowing more about the batteries will also help you make an informed decision when choosing a battery for your solar system.

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the tried and tested, centuries old batteries that have worked perfectly for solar systems. These batteries are the most cost-effective and reliable energy storage option for you. Moreover, having been around for years, they can be easily recycled and disposed of. The high reliability of lead-acid batteries makes them most suitable for an off-grid solar system in place.

There are two types of lead-acid batteries – flooded and sealed lead-acid batteries.

Flooded batteries are basically the bigger versions of your traditional car battery. Sealed lead-acid batteries are designed in a way that there is a minimum release of toxic gas into the atmosphere while they are charging.

Although cost-effective and reliable, one of the major downsides of using lead-acid batteries is that they require regular maintenance and ventilation. These batteries have a lower depth of discharge (DoD), which means they need to be recharged more often. Low DoD also means a shorter lifespan, bringing it to between 5 to 10 years.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are relatively new when compared to the age-old lead-acid batteries. These batteries were developed and enhanced parallelly with the battery technology required for electric cars in recent years. The batteries have quickly become one of the most popular solar storage options for residential use. This is mostly due to next to zero requirement of maintenance and a longer lifespan.

Most lithium-ion batteries come with a guaranteed 10-year warranty. The reason behind this longer lifespan is their higher DoD, meaning you can use more of the energy stored before it needs recharging. Moreover, these batteries have a higher battery energy density. This means that the battery can store more energy in a compact space compared to a lead-acid battery.

However, lithium-ion batteries are more expensive compared to other solar battery storage options. Additionally, the chemistry of the battery makes it prone to catching fire if not installed properly.

What Are the Pros & Cons of Solar Batteries?

As with any investment, there are both advantages and disadvantages to be aware of. Although there are many great benefits to investing in solar batteries, there are drawbacks that you need to know before you decide to buy a solar battery.

Below is a brief overview of the major pros and cons of solar batteries:

Pros

• Reduce your utility bills by storing surplus electricity, rather than exporting it
• Use electricity when and as you need it
• Earn a small amount by exporting stored energy to the grid

Cons

• High up-front costs
• You will need to replace the battery after 5-15 years
• Not all energy suppliers allow you to export stored energy

Popular Solar Batteries: Cost and Capacity

Over the years, several manufacturers have made a mark in the solar battery industry. Each manufacturer offers solar batteries at different capacities and costs. Below we have discussed the cost and capacity of some of the most popular solar battery manufacturers:

The cost for each manufacturer mentioned above is the average price calculated based on our research. The prices may vary from installer to installer. It is advisable to consult a certified installer and get quotes to find the most suitable options for your home.

GreenMatch can make the process of contacting installers easy for you. Simply click the button below and fill out the form. We will do the lengthy task of finding the most suitable installers for you. We will get you up to three free quotes to compare.

Factors that Affect Solar Battery Cost

The prices discussed above are the average cost of installing a solar battery storage system. The cost of the equipment makes up about 50-60% of the cost of a solar battery storage system. Installation of the system is what makes up the rest of the cost. However, several factors play a role in the overall cost of a solar storage battery system. These factors include:

Number of Batteries: Each installation is different and so is everyone’s need for energy storage. The number of batteries required will depend on the energy consumption and storage requirement specific to your home. Hence, the cost will differ based on the kilowatt-hours of energy you need to store, which in turn will determine the number of batteries that need to be installed.

Battery Chemistry: The chemistry is unique to each battery type. Lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries are the two most commonly used solar batteries for residences. Lithium-ion batteries are expensive compared to lead-acid batteries.

Inverter: Some batteries come with an inverter used for converting DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current). Solar batteries store direct current, however, if your home runs on alternating current, then you would require an inverter. This will add to the overall cost of your solar battery storage system.

Critical Load Panel: This is an essential part of a solar battery storage system. It ensures that you can efficiently use your battery power. A critical load panel can add up to $1,000 to $2,000 to your overall cost of the solar battery system.

Find the Best Solar Battery Storage System Installer Quotes

Installing a solar battery storage system can make your life more convenient all year round without worrying about the weather. As it becomes more common in private use, it is important to make a wise investment and choose the most cost-effective product.

Making such a large purchase requires thorough research and the comparison of different offers, which can be very time-consuming. We would be glad to help you find the solar battery storage system that fits your home and budget the best. By clicking on the button below, you can get up to 3 free no obligations quotes from our trustworthy suppliers, saving you time and money.

Frequently Asked Questions