Solar battery storage: The next best step for solar PV
we install for passionate people. Customers who want to save the planet and be self-sufficient.
Everyday, over 5,000 valuable One Vision customers monitor their solar PV systems online. But, not only do they want to know if their systems are working.
They want to know how they're working too. How they can get the most out of their solar panels and batteries. This is why we provide the techincal information.
THE BASICS
How does solar battery storage work?
Solar PV will provide you with free, clean energy for use. But, without solar battery storage, you'll never use all of it.
instead, you'll export any spare electricity to the National Grid. But, you will be able to earn through the Smart Export guarantee.
Battery storage will automatically store this extra energy. And when your solar panels aren't producing, your battery will help power
the property.
1. You will always draw power from your solar panels first
2. When your panels aren't generating, you will use power from your battery
3. If your battery has no charge, you will then draw power from the National Grid
You can save up to 100%, day-to-day, on your electricity bills with the right system.
SOLAR PANEL BATTERIES
Lead-acid
Lead-acid battery storage was invented in the 1800s. It was the earilest version of the rechargable battery and has become the most widely used since. It is an inexpensive option but also very inefficeint.
A lead-acid battery has a relatively short lifespan, has a lowdepth of discharge and typically requires more maintenance.
Lithium-ion
Lithium-ion became commercially available in the 1990s, led by Sony. Since then, it has become the most popular version of the rechargable battery. It is used in out smart devices, electric vehicles and in battery
storage for our energy. Lithium-iion batteries have a long lifespan, a high depth of discharge and are very efficient. When used in battery storage, it is more expensive than lead-acid but normally has a better return on investment. Both the public and private sectors are investing heavily in lithium through.
BATTERY STORAGE OPTIONS
The biggest and best of battery storage
At One Vision, we only install lithium-ion battery storage. We are able to source any brand, but our preferred models are currently the BYD B-box, LG CHEM and Tesla Powerwall.
BYD B-box
"BYD B-Boxes features a modular design allowing flexible battery storage sizing, extension throughout its lifetime, easy installation and uninterruptible maintenance.
Different versions for both 48V (LV) and high voltage (HV) storage systems. Features a modular design allowing flexible battery stotrage sizing, extension throughout its lifetime, easy installation and uninteruptable maintanence. B-Box uses a LiFePO4 chemistry battery which has been widely recognized as one of the safest battery technologies.
This features a stable structure with a thermal runaway temperature of over 480˚C. it is designed for residential and commercial applications with absolute safety.
- 2.56kWh (100%) usable for 10 years to 60% retained capacity (EOL)
- Power output – Continuous @ 48V = 2.56kW, Max Peak 5.12kW (30 sec)
- Power x 4 modules - Continuous = 10.24kW, Max Peak 20.48kW (30 sec)
- Round trip efficiency = 95.3%
- Warranty: 10 years to 60% retained capacity. See datasheet for more details.
LG Chem RESU
"The LG Chem 400V high-voltage storage system is compatible with many AC inverters including SolarEdge StorEdge or SMA Sunny Boy storage. The LG Chem RESU10H can store surplus energy generated from rooftop solar panels for use when needed. When the sun has set, energy demand is high, or there is a black-out, you can use the energy stored in your Energy Storage System to meet your energy needs at no extra cost. Unlike a grid-tied solar system which automatically switches off, a batery storage system allows you to keep generating and consuming energy when the grid goes down.
The LG Chem uses Lithium Battery technologies which has a peak voltage of 400 volts with a C/20 capacity of 24.50Ah while all being housed in a 8.11 x 30 x 36 unit which weighs 214lbs. The LG Chem is listed to UL standards UL1642, UL1973 TUV IES62619, CE, RCM and is supplied with a 10-year manufacturer warranty, Emegency Power Backup with Power Performance"
- RESU10 - 8.8 kWh usable for 3500cycles to 60% retained capacity (EOL)
- Power output – RESU10 48V = 5.0kW, Maximum Peak = 7.0kW
- Round trip efficiency (claimed) = 96%
- Warranty is 10 years - See datasheet for more details.
Tesla powerwall 2
Powerwall is a rechargeable home battery system designed to maximise your home's energy independence. That means backup power and a smaller carbon footprint for your home, and potentially savings on your electricity bill. Powerwall is an intelligent system that can be customised to your energy needs, with the ability to charge from solar or from the grid so energy is always available on demand.
- 13.5kWh usable for 3500 cycles - estimated 70% retained capacity
- DC-AC Inverter included
- Power output (AC) – Continuous = 5.0kW, Maximum Peak= 7.0kW
- Round trip efficiency (claimed) = 89% including inverter losses
- Warranty is 10 years - See datasheet for more details.
