Best Battery Types For Solar Storage

Solar systems can grant you impeccable advantages and cost efficiency regarding power generation. Batteries are an integral part of this system, available in an extensive range of varieties and capacities. 

However, before you make a purchase, knowing about all these significant types is integral to making informed and accurate decisions that suit your needs perfectly. 

This is why we have formed this guide, which digs deep into all the best  battery types for solar storage and all the essential information. 

What are solar batteries?

Solar batteries are energy storages of the solar system. They are power banks that store electrical energy by converting the current created by the solar panel for later usage. 

These are significant for increasing the reliability of energy systems and can be used as a backup power source during power outages.

Thus, they decrease the need to rely upon the traditional, eclectic grid system to satisfy energy-related needs and allow you to be self-sufficient. 

Types of solar storage systems

There are 3  types of solar battery storage available in the market. Here, we discuss each in detail to help you make a better decision. 

1. Lead acid solar batteries

Lead acid batteries are made up of lead plates and electrolyte solutions. The solution reacts with the plates to produce electrical current for energy production. 

These are among the most popular forms of solar batteries available in the market thanks to their low cost. There are two kinds of lead batteries you can find there: 

1.Flooded lead acid batteries: Are made of a liquid electrolyte solution that floods the plates of lead inside. 

2.Sealed lead acid battery: Also known as SLA, the Sealed lead acid batteries are entirely closed. Hence, they do not require constant inspections of the water levels. Such batteries are also available in gel type. 

Pros of lead acid solar batteries 

1.Affordable and pocket-friendly pricing: Lead acid batteries are among the most affordable and oldest forms of batteries available.

2.Easy to recycle: Lead acid batteries contain about 80% of the recyclable material that can be easily reused without harming the environment. 

3.Tolerant to temperature changes: Such batteries can easily withstand higher temperatures. In addition, they are equally suitable for colder climates. 

Cons of lead acid batteries 

1.Expensive in the long run: Although lead acid batteries have a slightly lower upfront cost, this isn't justified because of their very short lifespan. On average, they can last up to 3 to 5 years only. 

2.Highly unsafe and harmful: Flooded lead acid batteries are highly hazardous and can cause multiple dangers.

3.Needs regular maintenance: The lead batteries need regular maintenance, including water level rechecking and cleaning. 

4.Charging issues: Slow charging and fast discharging are some of its common problems. 

2. Nickel Cadmium solar batteries

Nickel Cadmium solar batteries, also known as Ni-Cd batteries, are rechargeable and rely on nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium for power. In addition, potassium and hydroxide are used as electrolytes. 

Due to the high toxicity of cadmium, which can cause memory effects, Nickel Cadmium batteries are rarely used today. 

Pros of Nickel Cadmium batteries 

1.Temperature tolerant: Nickel Cadmium batteries can operate under different climatic conditions. 

2.Longer life cycle: The batteries have a longer life cycle. That means you can recharge and discharge them without replacing them. 

3.Low discharge rate: The batteries have a low discharge rate when unused. 

Cons of Nickel Cadmium batteries  

1.Highly toxic and harmful: Nickel Cadmium batteries are very toxic and can pose a significant risk to human health and the environment. 

2.It is very difficult to dispose of such batteries. Disposing of such batteries is very complex, and the human body can also be harmed during the process. 

3.High maintenance requirement: Ni-Cd batteries require very high maintenance. This includes periodic deep discharge cycles to prevent deterioration. 

4.Shorter lifespan: A very sensitive lifespan can be affected by the conditions under which your battery is stored. 

3. Lithium ion solar storage batteries

Lithium ion batteries are the latest type of solar energy storage that is becoming more famous due to their unique offerings. 

They are composed of multiple lithium ion cells connected in series. These batteries are specifically designed to store energy generated by solar power from the sun during the day and supply different parts of your house at night. 

Pros of lithium ion solar batteries 

1.Longer lifespan: Lithium ion batteries have more durability than lead acid and Ni-Cd batteries. If taken care of, the lithium ion batteries can stay with you for decades.

2.High energy density: Batteries can store more energy in a very small space, making them very popular among households with limited space. 

3.Low maintenance requirements: The lithium ion batteries do not need regular updating or checking to work correctly. 

4.Cost-efficient: Although lithium ion batteries are expensive compared to other options, they are the most cost-efficient due to their high energy density, high-temperature tolerance, and low maintenance requirements. 

5.Fast charging: Such batteries are charged fast and drained slowly. In addition, they have a meager discharge rate when not in use. 

Cons of lithium ion batteries 

1.The only con with the lithium ion battery is their high upfront cost. However, it is justified by the other benefits and more extended durability. 

Which one is the Best Battery Type For Solar storage?

Now that we have done all the analysis, it's time to disclose the best battery type. It is none other than the lithium ion battery, as it provides all the benefits provided by other types along with some additional perks, such as high energy density. 

However, to ensure maximum gains, it is optimal to purchase the battery from reliable sources such as Innotinum. 

The company has 4 years of experience and multiple types of batteries to offer. The list includes IPES-HI, IPES-L0, IES-H0, IES-H1, etc., with distinguished capacities to suit your tailored needs. 

Conclusion

With so many available options, choosing the perfect battery for your solar system might be a difficult choice to make.

For your assistance, we have created this guide that discusses three significant types of solar batteries: lead acid, Ni-Cd, and lithium ion batteries. 

It discloses all the essential information. Please make sure to read the whole guide carefully before making a final decision.