Storage Batteries for Solar Energy Systems
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- Category: Solar Energy
- Published on Monday, 19 December 2011 21:25
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Going Off Grid - Deep Cycle Batteries
Like the other components of an off grid solar power setup, batteries play a vital role and they need to be a special type. Car batteries can serve for off grid power storage purposes for short term and emergency use, but even then they wear out very quickly. What you'll need is a deep cycle battery.
The reason car batteries are unsuitable is that they are made to generate a lot of power for a very short period - just seconds at a time as they turn the starter motor in a vehicle. They are not designed to deliver constant supply and over a long period between charges, which can be the case in an off grid application. Ordinary car batteries, no matter the quality, will likely be ineffective in storing charge within just a few months.
In the long run, a car battery setup will cost you far more than deep cycle batteries as you'll be replacing car batteries far more often.
Deep cycle batteries are a must for any serious off grid solar power installation as this type of battery is designed specifically to be charged and discharged continuously over a period of years.
There are a few different types of deep cycle batteries:
Flooded batteries:
Similar to car batteries only with much thicker lead plates, giving them a longer life.
Gel batteries
In a gel battery, the acid is immobilized using silica. This makes the battery unspillable even when broken and there's no off-gassing of electrolyte. Given you'll likely have multiple batteries, it's also a great safety feature in an off grid application as gases produced by batteries are explosive!
AGM batteries
AGM stands for Absorbed Glass Mat. The matting is placed between the lead plates which, like in a gel battery, immobilises the electrolyte. These batteries were originally developed for the military and are extremely robust.
Battery choices - ask an expert
Of the three different types of deep cycle batteries, gel or AGM batteries are the best option for an off grid system given their safety and performance advantages over flooded. Choosing between a gel or an AGM battery is a little more complex as it depends on where and how your off grid power system is installed and the application; so it's best to seek the advice of a deep cycle battery expert before making a purchase.
Michael Bloch is a consultant for Energy Matters Australia - a green energy equipment company offering a wide range of discounted solar panels, deep cycle batteries, wind turbines and associated accessories for residential, businesses and schools. The Energy Matters site contains comprehensive resources; including a solar power system builder tool, renewable energy rebates information and free advice on off grid and grid connect solar and wind power systems.
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