Solar batteries are an intrigue part of almost every Solar Power System. This battery provides the energy for when it is needed.
Solar panels collect the energy from Sunlight. This energy might be used straight away, powering the electrical equipment and hot water system in the home. Or this might be stored in the battery, so it can be used at nigh when the Solar panels are no longer providing energy. Without the battery there would only be power during daylight.
Daily power needs can be a little more complex than they first appear, and the battery system must be designed to accommodate the changes in daily use. We tend to use more power during days on the weekend, for example, so the battery may receive less charge energy during the day. And there is more energy used for air conditioners during the Summer months, and heating during winter, so this must also be taken into account. Additionally, a home with a pool may need power for a filter and perhaps a heating system. This must be scheduled for a time when there is energy to spare.
The size of the home, the number of occupants, and the number of electrical facilities used will determine the size of the solar system and the battery required. A small home with 3 people may only need a 5kWatt system. A large home and family could easily use double this energy, and require a 10kWatt system. A home business, with office equipment, would require more power during the day than a home that is only occupied during the evening.
Solar Batteries
Solar batteries come in various types, from more modern lithium Ion types to old but reliable lead acid technology. The battery technology is improving all the time, with the promise of higher capacity batteries available at lower costs.
At present a battery suitable for a Solar System costs about $1000 per kWh, including installation. If a small home uses about 5kW Solar Power System then it probably needs a 3kWh battery for energy storage. A large home needs about twice this amount of energy, requiring a 6kWh battery.
A solar battery should have a working life of about 10 years. This is less than the working life of the Solar panels and the rest of the system, which should be 20 years. So expect to replace, usually upgrade, your battery after 10 years while keeping the rest of the Solar Power System.