Types of storage technology

THEThe energy that we generate through a photovoltaic installation can be stored through the use of special batteries installed in the system itself. This electricity that we store can be later used depending on the demand of each moment. Solar panels generate electricity constantly, so it is necessary to have systems to accumulate that electrical energy produced and not consumed and be able to use it when it is needed.

Types of storage technology

The various types of solar energy storage technologies are key elements in any photovoltaic system, since 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 having a system to store the energy that is not consumed and thus be able to use it later.

Batteries are the element of a self-consumption photovoltaic installation that allow energy independence to be obtained thanks to the accumulation of electrical energy .

An important advantage of batteries is the possibility of disconnecting from the electricity grid so that the property is energy independent. Other benefits they provide are that they emit almost no pollution into the environment, their long useful life (up to about 15 years) and that they allow the energy consumed by solar panels to be increased and the electricity bill to be reduced. Regarding the life of the batteries, it should be noted that below 80% of the useful life of the battery, it continues to function, guaranteeing energy storage.

Operation of a battery for a solar panel

As we have just commented, a photovoltaic battery is an element that allows you to store the energy that is generated thanks to the solar panels during the hours of sunshine , to be able to use it when it is not possible to produce energy. such as on cloudy days or at night. In this way, we will have electricity at all times , even when the solar panels are not working.

The solar battery is made up of one or several electrochemical cells through which chemical energy is converted into electricity . The cells have a positive and a negative electrode, as well as electrolytes that allow the movement of ions between the two electrodes to facilitate the flow of current out of the battery.

Types of batteries for solar panels

There are different 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 that we have, it will be interesting to place one type or another of solar battery.

The most common, recommended and economical model to use in low and medium power solar installations where simple electrical devices without motors are used (lights, microwaves, television…), are monoblock solar batteries . If you need to use the batteries in more complex devices with a motor (washing machines, water pumps, etc.), the use of other types of batteries is recommended, such as AGM batteries and GEL batteries.. These are sealed and are made up of a gelled electrolyte that makes them have higher performance and do not require maintenance, they are also manufactured in a monoblock format. These batteries are capable of withstanding high starting peaks of any appliance without problems, making them ideal for use with any type of electrical device.

Other types of batteries are the OPzS stationary batteries, the OPzV stationary batteries and the TOPzS stationary batteries , all of them forming part of the range that we call stationary . This type of battery offers independent vessels of 2V each. Through the connectors, the glasses 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, since they offer great resistance for continuous charge-discharge cycles and have an approximate duration of 20 years. This model needs refill maintenance every two years and be placed in a ventilated place, since it is an open battery model.

In addition, the OPZV model has a gelled electrolyte that transforms it into a completely sealed and maintenance-free stationary battery, with the advantages of an OPzS stationary battery. Reason why they can be placed in a vertical or horizontal position. Its duration is between 15 and 20 years. This type of battery has a higher cost but compensates for the investment made in them due to its useful life.

Stationary batteries are recommended for use in homes, farms or facilities for daily use , where the consumption to be carried out 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?

Whether we opt for one or the other battery will depend on various factors:

• The size of our solar installation .
• The type and quantity of electrical devices that are connected to said installation.
• Of the purchasing power of each household.

It is therefore very important to take into account the characteristics of each battery since the use of 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 that we take maximum care of the batteries, in order to extend their useful life, since they are the most expensive and delicate part of a photovoltaic installation.

If you have any questions about the type of battery that is best for your installation of solar panels for self -consumption, contact the professionals at POWEN. We will be happy to assist you and explain the best option for your home. With POWEN you will have the perfect ally to help you in terms of sustainability and efficiency.