A solar power storage system, often called battery storage or solar storage, stores the electricity generated by a solar power system to be released later when needed. This allows solar power to be used at times when the sun is not shining, such as in the evening or on cloudy days.
In simple terms, the storage system converts electrical energy into chemical energy to store the electricity during the charging process. This energy is stored in battery cells. When needed, the stored energy is converted back into electrical energy during the discharge process and can then be used in homes or commercial buildings.
Types of Solar batteries
1. Lithium batteries
Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are one of the most commonly used battery types in solar storage systems due to their high safety, long life, and low susceptibility to thermal failure. The depth of discharge of this type of battery is usually specified between around 90% of the total capacity. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are also used as battery technology in solar storage systems. They are characterized by high energy density and a long service life. We offer the manufacturers BYD, Pylontech, LG Energy Solutions, CEGASA, SolarEdge or Huawei suitable solutions for every need. In our store we offer well-known storage with lithium-ion batteries of the series BYD Battery-Box Premium HVS, HVM, LVL and LVS, Pylontech FORCE, Huawei LUNA2000, the SMA Home Storage, or SolarEdge Home battery and many more.
2. Lead-acid batteries
Lead-acid batteries are an older technology, but still used in some solar batteries. They are less expensive than lithium-ion batteries, but have a shorter life and lower energy density. Lead-acid batteries are more suitable for smaller solar installations or as a backup power source in remote areas. They require more maintenance and are heavier than lithium-ion batteries.
3. Other battery types
In addition to lithium-ion as well as lead-acid batteries, there are other battery types such as redox flow systems, saltwater batteries, and nickel-metal hydride batteries. However, these battery types are rather uncommon in commercial solar storage systems.
Advantages of a battery storage system
Battery storage is particularly useful for maximizing self-consumption of solar power, performing energy management, and reducing the need to purchase power from the public grid. Storage systems increase the efficiency and independence of solar installations and are an important component of decentralized energy production, serving as a backup power source (emergency power supply) in emergencies. They are also an important factor in the energy transition towards renewable resources.
How large should the solar storage be?
Basically, it can be said: The more self-consumption is to be covered by solar power, the larger the selected storage must be. The annual electricity consumption is a first guideline here with regard to the size of the storage to be selected. In addition, other factors such as one's own consumption behavior, the desired degree of self-sufficiency or the desired share of self-consumption, as well as the module orientation and the size of the solar system are decisive. Our offered storages usually start from a size of 4 kWh. If you need help with the selection or planning of your storage, please feel free to use our inquiry form or give us a call.
Which inverter is needed?
A battery or hybrid inverter is needed to use a battery storage in a solar system. The battery inverter is required to store the electricity generated by the solar system in the battery storage system and is usually used when a storage system is retrofitted in an existing system and no hybrid inverter is available. Hybrid inverters can both convert the solar power generated and charge the battery, thus fulfilling a dual function. Thus, the battery or hybrid inverter controls and optimizes the energy flows between the solar modules, the battery and the power grid. With us you will find a wide range of hybrid inverters in different power classes for operation with your solar storage. Popular manufacturers and series here are, for example, the SMA Sunny Tripower, Sunny Island or Sunny Boy Storage, Fronius Symo GEN24 Plus, KOSTAL Plenticore Plus or Huawei SUN2000.
Choosing the right solar storage
If you need help choosing the right solar storage, call us or use our contact form. We will be happy to advise you and put together a storage system with all the necessary components on request.