What Is the Most Efficient Way to Store Your Solar Energy?
If you live in Central Florida, you know it is a fantastic place to take advantage of the sun’s energy. We live in the Sunshine State for a reason after all! But let’s say you have solar installed. How do you store excess energy for later use or for selling it to the grid?
Great question! Our solar pros at Solar Bear Orlando outline the most efficient methods for storing solar energy so you can truly harness solar power. Let’s make the most of your solar investment!
Benefits of Storing Solar Energy
Storing solar energy allows homeowners to carry over excess solar energy into low-generation hours. This allows you to use the energy whenever needed, not just during peak hours.
Benefits include:
- Energy Savings: In Orlando, when you install solar power, your system will be tied to the grid. When you store your excess energy you can send it to the grid through net metering which allows you to essentially sell this excess energy to the grid which equals greater energy savings! But you can also just store the power for your use without needing to tap into the grid at all.
- Power During Low-Production: The best part of solar batteries is that you can take advantage of your generated storage whether you’re dealing with a few cloudy days, a storm, or shorter days in the winter months.
- Backup Energy: If there is a power outage in your area, you will still be able to access solar power from your storage system, even if the electrical grid is down in your area.
So, what is the most efficient way to store solar energy? Keep reading to find out!
Solar Batteries
The most popular option for storing solar energy is using solar batteries, which allow homeowners to store excess energy that is generated by their solar systems for use during inclement weather or when the sun isn’t shining.
These batteries are installed in conjunction with solar panel systems and are designed to safely store and discharge energy as needed.
Types of Solar Batteries
There are four main types of solar batteries including:
- Lead acid
- Lithium-ion
- Nickel-cadmium
- Flow
Let’s consider each a little more closely:
Lead Acid
Lead acid batteries are known for their low cost and reliability, but they do require maintenance. Generally, their lifespan is five years, but one drawback is that they provide less usable energy at higher rates of discharge and are limited to around 50% of their rated capacity.
Lithium-Ion
These are the most popular type of solar batteries and can last between 10-15 years. Plus, they provide 100% of their rated capacity, regardless of the rate of discharge. Nice!
Nickel Cadmium
These types of batteries are not often used for residential projects. Instead, they are used in commercial solar systems because they can operate at extreme temperatures.
Flow
These are batteries that include an emerging battery technology that might be able to last up to 30 years. Because they are a new technology, they are quite expensive and are mostly used for larger-scale systems.
How to Choose the Best Solar Battery
For Central Florida homeowners, it is important to consider the output of their systems as well as their household’s energy needs. If you aren’t sure which kind of battery storage system is right for your home, that’s what we are here for! Our team at Solar Bear Orlando can guide you in choosing the right solution for your home.
Read More > Important Questions to Ask Your Solar Installer
Maximize Your Solar System
Ready to make the most of your solar energy output? A solar battery storage solution could be the perfect way to store your excess energy for your own use or to sell back to the grid. If you’re ready to get started, don’t wait to reach out to our friendly solar pros at Solar Bear Orlando for a quote at (727) 471-7442!
We can’t wait to help you harness the power of the sun!