Batteries: What are they used for? What types are there?

Integrating batteries into your solar self-consumption system is an excellent way to maximize the use of the solar energy you generate. These batteries allow you to store excess electricity produced during the day and use it during times of low or no generation, such as at night or on cloudy days. By installing batteries, you can achieve greater energy independence and optimize savings on your electricity bill.​

Types of Batteries for Solar Self-Consumption​

1. Lead-Acid Batteries​
   • These batteries have long been the most economical option. They're known for their reliability, but their technology is older. Although they're more affordable initially, they have a shorter lifespan (5-10 years) and lower efficiency compared to other modern options.​
   • Benefits: Low initial cost.
   • Disadvantages: Higher maintenance, lower efficiency and depth of discharge (50%), which means that not all the stored energy can be used without damaging it.
2. Lithium-ion batteries​
   • Lithium batteries are the most popular choice today due to their high efficiency and long lifespan (up to 15 years or more). These batteries can discharge up to 80% or more of their capacity without compromising their durability, allowing for better utilization of stored energy.​
   • Benefits: High efficiency (over 90%), lower maintenance, and longer life cycles, making them ideal for residential or commercial systems seeking to optimize their self-consumption.
   • Disadvantages: Its initial cost is higher than lead-acid batteries, although the long-term savings usually compensate for this investment.
3. Flow Batteries​
   • Flow batteries are a newer technology that promises extremely long lifespans. They store energy in liquids circulating between two tanks, making them very durable and capable of withstanding many charge and discharge cycles without loss of capacity.​
   • Benefits: Unlimited life cycles, high capacity and efficiency, ideal for large installations.
   • Disadvantages: Its initial cost is high, which limits its adoption mainly to larger-scale or industrial installations.

Benefits of Batteries for Solar Self-Consumption

1. Energy Savings: By storing excess energy generated during the day and using it during periods of low production, you can significantly reduce your electricity bill, making the most of your solar system.
2. Energy Independence: Installing batteries allows you to reduce your dependence on the power grid, protecting you from potential energy price increases and ensuring power supply during power outages.
3. Solar System Optimization: Without a battery, any excess energy not used is returned to the grid. With batteries, you can store and utilize 100% of the energy you produce, maximizing the return on investment of your installation.
4. Sustainability: Batteries, especially lithium and flow batteries, are a more sustainable option in the long term, as they help reduce dependence on conventional energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.