Solar batteries: storage for solar generated electricity
Solar panels generate electricity only when the sun is shining, which means they can produce excess power during the day and none at night. This is where solar batteries come into play, offering a solution to store solar-generated electricity for use when it is needed most.
What are solar batteries?
Solar batteries are devices designed to store the electricity generated by solar panels. These batteries store excess solar energy produced during peak sunlight hours and release it when the demand for electricity exceeds the production, such as during the night or cloudy days.
By integrating solar batteries into a solar power system, homeowners and businesses can achieve greater energy independence and efficiency.
Your top questions answered
Are solar batteries covered by the SEAI solar grant?
Unfortunately, the solar grant does not cover the costs of a solar battery. However, solar batteries are a good investment for your solar system.
How much do solar batteries cost?
In Ireland, the cost of a solar battery and its installation ranges from €4,000 to €8,000 depending on battery type, capacity, efficiency, power rating and durability.
Are solar batteries beneficial in Ireland’s climate?
Yes, solar batteries are beneficial in Ireland despite its often overcast weather. Ireland receives sufficient sunlight throughout the year for solar panels to generate electricity. Solar batteries ensure that any excess energy produced during sunnier periods is stored for use during times of low sunlight.
What capacity of solar battery do I need for my home?
The required capacity depends on your household’s energy consumption and the size of your solar panel system. A typical Irish home might need a battery with a capacity ranging from 5 kWh to 10 kWh.
Consulting with a solar energy expert can help determine the best capacity for your specific needs.
How long do solar batteries last?
Most solar batteries have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Their longevity can be influenced by factors such as usage patterns, maintenance, and the quality of the battery.
Can solar batteries work during power outages?
Yes, many solar batteries can provide backup power during outages. However, not all systems have this capability by default. Ensure your system includes an inverter with backup functionality to use stored energy during a grid outage.
Types of solar batteries
There are several types of solar batteries available for you to choose from. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks. Common options include:
- Lead-acid batteries: Affordable but with shorter lifespans and lower energy density. Common in off-grid systems.
- Lithium-ion batteries: Long lifespan and high energy efficiency. Popular for home systems despite higher upfront costs.
- Flow batteries: Scalable and long-lasting but relatively new and more expensive.
- Nickel-cadmium batteries: Durable and heat-resistant but costly and less eco-friendly.
Benefits of solar batteries
Solar batteries help reduce reliance on the grid by storing excess solar energy for later use — such as during the evening or on cloudy days. This increases your energy independence and can lead to lower electricity bills.
In the event of a power outage, solar batteries can keep essential appliances running, provided your system includes backup functionality.
Storing surplus solar energy also helps maximise the overall efficiency of your system, reducing wastage and increasing your long-term return on investment.
Considerations when choosing solar batteries
Here are some important specifications to keep in mind when selecting a battery:
- Capacity: Measured in kWh, this indicates how much energy the battery can store.
- Power rating: Measured in kW, it shows how much power the battery can deliver at once.
- Depth of discharge (DoD): The percentage of energy that can be safely used from the battery's capacity.
- Round-trip efficiency: A measure of how much energy is retained during charge/discharge cycles.
- Lifespan: Usually measured in years or cycles — higher quality batteries last longer.
Future-proof your solar panels with batteries
Solar batteries are a key component of modern solar systems, especially in Ireland where weather can be unpredictable. By storing energy for use when the sun isn’t shining, batteries help you make the most of your solar investment.
Choosing the right battery can give you greater control over your energy use, reduce your carbon footprint, and protect your home from future energy price rises.
At Solarpanels.ie, we’re here to help you find the right storage solution for your needs — whether you’re upgrading an existing system or starting fresh.
Embrace the power of the sun and take control of your energy future today!
