The energy that we generate through a photovoltaic installation may be stored using special batteries installed on the system itself. This electricity that we store can be used later depending on the demand at a given time. Solar panels generate electricity constantly, so it is necessary to have systems that can accumulate that electricity produced and not consumed and be able to use it when needed.
Different types of solar energy storage technologies are key elements in any photovoltaic system, because they allow us to take advantage of all the solar energy, which we will transform into electricity, without losing anything. The storage of electrical energy is an essential process that takes place in almost all photovoltaic installations, and that allows you to have a storage system of energy that is not consumed and thus you can use it later.
Batteries are the element of a self-consumption photovoltaic installation that allows obtaining energy independence due to the accumulation of electricity.
An important one advantage of batteries is the possibility of disconnection from the electrical network so that the property is energy independent. Other benefits they offer are that they emit almost no pollution in the environment, their long useful life (up to 15 years) and that they allow increasing the energy consumed by the solar panels and reducing the electricity bill. Regarding the life of the batteries, it should be noted that below 80% of the useful life of the battery, it continues to work, guaranteeing energy storage.
Operation of a battery for a solar panel
As we just discussed, a The photovoltaic battery is an element that allows the storage of the energy that is generated thanks to the solar panels during the hours of sunshine., to be able to use it when no energy can be produced. such as on cloudy days or at night. Thus, we will have electricity at any timeeven when the solar panels are not working.
The the solar battery is composed of one or more electrochemical cells through chemical energy is converted into electricity. Cells have a positive and a negative electrode, as well as electrolytes that allow ions to move between the two electrodes to facilitate the flow of current in the battery.
Types of batteries for solar panels
there is various types of batteries for solar panels depending on the storage technology used as well as depending on the power or number of volts of the battery. Depending on the type of photovoltaic installation we have, it will be of interest to place one or another type of solar battery.
He the most common, recommended and economical model to be used in low and medium power solar installations using simple electrical devices without a motor (lights, microwave oven, TV…), are those monobloc solar batteries. If you need to use batteries more complex and powerful devices (washing machines, water pumps, etc.), it is recommended to use other types of batteries, such as AGM batteries and GEL batteries. They are sealed and consist of a gelled electrolyte that makes them work better and do not require maintenance, they are also manufactured in monobloc format. These batteries are able to withstand high starting spikes of any device without any problems, so They are ideal for use with any type of electrical appliance.
Other types of batteries are OPzS stationary batteries, OPzV stationary batteries and TOPzS stationary batteriesall part of the range we call stationary. This type of battery provides independent vessels of 2V each. Through connectors, the vessels are connected to each other, forming 12V, 24V or 48V systems.
They are usually used in those large installations that need batteries with a longer life than GEL or AGM batteries, as they offer a high resistance to continuous charge-discharge cycles and have an approximate life of 20 years. This model needs to be refilled every two years and placed in a ventilated place as it is an open battery model.
In addition, the OPZV model has a gelled electrolyte that makes it a completely sealed and maintenance-free stationary battery with the advantages of an OPzS stationary battery. That is why they can be placed vertically or horizontally. Its duration is between 15 and 20 years. This type of batteries have a higher cost, but they compensate for the investment made in them due to their useful life.
Coward Stationary batteries are recommended for use in homes, farms or daily use units., where the consumption that is made is previously known. In those medium-sized installations where expansions are planned for the future, it is more advisable to install GEL or AGM batteries.
What type of battery to choose?
That we opt for one or the other battery will depend on several factors:
- From size have our solar installation.
- From type and quantity of electrical appliances which connects to that unit.
- From purchasing power of each home.
Therefore, it is very important to take into account the characteristics of each battery because using one that is not suitable will mean that in the short term we will have to install new batteries and our first investment will be useless.
At the same time, it is important to take maximum care of the batteries, in order to be able to extend their life as they are the most expensive and delicate part of an installation photovoltaics.
If you are in any doubt about which type of battery is best for you installation of solar panels for him self-consumption Get in touch with professionals. We will be happy to help and explain the best option for your home. With you will have the perfect ally to help you in terms of durability and efficiency.