A common question when setting up a solar installation is whether to pick high-voltage or low-voltage batteries for your system.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the two types of solar batteries and explain why one might be better than the other for your specific solar needs.
Let’s get into it.
What Is A Solar Battery?
A solar battery is also known as a solar energy storage device. It is the device which stores any energy generated by your solar panels or tiles so that you can use it to power your home and appliances or send excess energy back to the grid.
Solar batteries are especially useful for powering your home at night when no solar energy is produced without sunlight.
The battery will store the excess energy produced during the day as a reserve which you can use during periods of low sunlight or even as a backup energy source during a grid power cut.
Overall, solar batteries are an important component of any solar-panelled energy system, as they help maximise renewable energy use and reduce reliance on traditional grid power sources.
What Types Of Solar Batteries Are There?
There are a few types of solar batteries, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, and flow batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common types of solar batteries due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and low risk of thermal runaway.
Low-Voltage Solar Batteries
Low-voltage solar batteries typically operate at 12V or 24V. They are often used in small off-grid solar systems, such as for camping, RVs or boats that use solar panels.
These batteries are often made of lead-acid or lithium-ion chemistries and are generally less expensive, and have a shorter lifespan than high-voltage batteries.
High-Voltage Solar Batteries
High-voltage solar batteries operate at higher voltages of around 48V or higher. They are commonly used in larger grid-tied solar systems, such as for houses or commercial buildings with solar panel set-ups.
These batteries are typically made of lithium-ion chemistries and have a longer lifespan than low-voltage batteries. They are the standard type of solar battery you would get for a home set-up if you wish to store energy produced by your panels.
The higher voltage of these batteries allows for more efficient energy transfer over longer distances and reduces the cost of wiring and other components needed for the solar system.
Speak To A Solar Expert
Need help to decide which battery would be best for your solar system? Speak to one of our Smartly solar experts today for guidance.
At Smartly, we have an excellent range of powerful solar batteries to help you make the most of your new or existing solar setup. We’re always happy to speak with you about our available options and how you can set up the perfect solar system for your specific needs.
You can get in touch with us via email, telephone or by using the live chat feature at the bottom of this page. Embrace solar energy today!
