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Solar Energy Storage: Batteries and Backup for Homes in 2024
Solar Energy Storage Batteries and Backup for Homes in 2024

Solar Energy Storage: Batteries and Backup for Homes in 2024

Published on:
March 18, 2024

In Australia, more and more people homeowners are using solar power to get energy. It’s because Australia has lots of sun, which is suitable for making solar power.  

Using solar power can help save money on electricity bills and is better for the environment because it reduces the amount of pollution. 

As we already know, solar energy only works when the sun is shining. Hence, people are starting to use batteries called Solar Battery Storage. Batteries and backup systems are part of the solar storage.  

These solar batteries store extra energy from the sun so it can be used later, even when it’s cloudy or dark outside.  

There are different types of these batteries in Australia, so people can choose the one that works best for them.

Basics of Solar Energy Storage Solutions

Here’s a simple explanation of solar energy storage solutions: 

When we use solar panels to capture sunlight and turn it into electricity, sometimes we have more electricity than we need right away. That’s where solar energy storage solutions come in.  

These solutions are like big, smart batteries for storing extra electricity. They work by collecting the extra energy produced by the solar panels during the day and saving it for at night or on cloudy days. 

So, instead of wasting the extra electricity or relying on the grid, we can store it in these particular batteries. Then, when we require power, we can use the stored energy instead of using electricity from the grid.  

These not only help us save money on electricity bills but also make sure we have power even when the sun isn’t shining brightly.

Average Solar Battery Lifespan

The average lifespan of a solar battery is around 5 to 15 years. We can optimise it for this specific time before it needs to be replaced.  

But, some factors can affect how long a solar battery lasts, like how often it’s used and how well it’s taken care of. 

So, if you take good care of your solar battery, it can last longer and keep providing power for your home or business.

Emerging Technologies and Innovations of Solar Batteries in Australia

solar storage
In Australia, there are exciting new technologies and ideas for making solar batteries better. 

Storage Capacity:

Scientists and engineers are working on ways to make solar batteries store more energy. It means they can hold onto more electricity from the sun, so you have power even when it’s cloudy or nighttime.

Cost Affordability:

People want solar batteries to be more affordable. So, researchers are finding ways to make them cheaper to buy and install. It helps more people switch to solar power without spending too much money.

Battery Energy Density:

This is about making solar batteries smaller but still powerful. Think of it like fitting more energy into a smaller space. It makes solar batteries more efficient and easier to use in homes and businesses. 

These advancements in technology are making solar power even more accessible and valuable for everyone in Australia. 

These batteries also communicate with other devices in your home, like your phone or smart thermostat, to manage energy use more efficiently. It’s like having a brain in your battery! 

These emerging technologies and innovations are making solar batteries even more helpful and practical for people in Australia, helping them save money on electricity bills and reduce their impact on the environment.

How Many Batteries Do You Need For Your Home Solar System?

If you’re thinking about putting solar panels on your roof, you’ll need to figure out how many batteries you’ll need to make the system work.  

There are a few essential things to think about when deciding this, like how big your house is and how much sunlight you want to save up. 

For a regular-sized house using solar power, you’ll need at least one battery. But if you have a big house or want to store more solar energy for when it’s dark or there’s no electricity, you might need more batteries.  

How many batteries you need depends on how big your house is and what type of solar system you have.  

For example, if you only have solar panels without batteries, you’ll only need one. But if your system has an inverter that changes the solar power from DC to AC electricity, you might need two or more batteries to optimise everything properly. 

Without batteries, your solar panel system can’t save up any extra electricity for later. So, at night, your house will only be able to use it if you have batteries. That’s why it’s crucial to add batteries when you install solar panels! 

Solar batteries come in different sizes, depending on how much electricity your house uses. You need to think about how much power your solar panels make and how much the batteries can store.  

They also come in different colours, so you can pick the one that looks best on your house. Solar batteries aren’t just for keeping your home running on solar power. They can also save up extra electricity for later.  

For example, if there’s a power cut in the afternoon, you can use your solar battery to keep your lights on in the evening when there’s not as much sunlight. 

You can even sell the extra electricity back to the power company and help out other people who need it.  

Before you get any batteries, make sure to figure out how much energy you use. There are lots of different kinds of solar panels, and they all require different amounts of power.  

You can use a solar calculator to help you figure out how many batteries you require based on your situation. 

And when you do get batteries, make sure to put them somewhere sunny so they work the best. They require at least six hours of sunlight every day to work right.

What are The Best Solar Batteries?

When you’re thinking about using solar power, one of the big choices is picking the right kind of battery.  

There are lots of different types out there, each with its own good points and not-so-good points. 

Here’s a quick rundown of six main types: 

  1. Lead-acid batteries: These are really common and often used in homes or businesses with solar power. They last a long time and are reliable, but they’re heavy and could be more efficient. 
  2. Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries: These are similar to lead-acid batteries but lighter and last longer. They could be better at converting sunlight into electricity, though. 
  3. Polymer lithium-ion (PbLi) batteries: These batteries are lighter and durable. They’re great for things that need a lot of power, like electric cars. 
  4. Solar-powered lithium-ion (SOLAR) cells: These are like PbLi cells but use solar panels for storage. They’re suitable for small devices and can be used over and over without needing to recharge. 
  5. Sodium nickel sulfide (NiS2) batteries: These are environmentally friendly and powerful, but they only last for a short time because they can catch fire easily. 
  6. Lithium-ion polymer (LIPs) batteries: These combine the excellent things from PbLi and LiPo cells using organic molecules. They’re efficient and durable.

Best Solar Battery Brands in Australia

Some of the best solar battery brands are listed below: 

For a detailed review of the batteries, check out Best Solar Batteries For Australia

Cost of Solar Batteries

The average cost of solar batteries in Australia can vary depending on factors like size, brand, and quality.  

Generally, though, you should pay anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars for a solar battery system. Popular solar batteries are priced between $8,750 and $15,500. 

It’s essential to get multiple quotes and compare prices from different providers to find the best deal for your needs. While the upfront cost might seem high, solar batteries can help you save money on electricity bills in the long run.

Maintenance of Solar Batteries to Optimise Performance

First, always check your solar batteries regularly for any signs of rust or damage. Look for cracks in the cover or any parts that have changed colour. Also, ensure that all the wiring is in good condition and there is no rust.  

Second, only try to fix a damaged or rusted solar battery yourself if you know what you’re doing. Sometimes, trying to fix a broken battery can make things worse and end up costing you more money in the long run.  

Always ask a professional for help when dealing with something as tricky as a solar battery system. 

Third, always use the proper protection when storing and moving your solar batteries. Never leave them in direct sunlight or extreme heat.  

If you have to move them, put them in a protective container that keeps them safe from extreme temperatures, moisture, and bumps. 

Fourth, always use good quality chargers when charging your solar batteries. Cheap chargers have less power than required, which can damage your battery over time. Also, try to charge them up regularly every few weeks to keep them working well. 

Contact Solar Emporium today for any solar solutions! Also, get a free solar quote

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