How To Choose A Solar-plus-storage System

How to choose a solar-plus-storage system , you first need to understand how a standard solar PV system functions.

The typical solar energy system includes solar panels, an inverter, equipment to mount the panels on your roof, and a performance monitoring system that tracks electricity production. The solar panels collect energy from the sun and turn it into electricity, which is passed through the inverter and converted into a form that you can use to power your home.

There are two main kinds of deep cycle batteries: lead acid and lithium. Lead acid batteries have a lower upfront cost, while lithium batteries have the longest lifespan. Flooded lead acid batteries require maintenance, and more expensive sealed lead acid batteries are maintenance free.

The vast majority of residential solar energy systems are connected to the electricity grid (or “grid-tied”). When your panels are producing more electricity than your home needs, the excess is fed back into the power grid. Conversely, when your home needs more electricity than your solar panels are producing, you can draw power from the electric grid.

In most cases, you receive a credit on your utility bill for the electricity you send back to the grid.

Today’s solar batteries are better than ever. So are the devices that regulate and protect them. But you still need to do your homework to make sure you get the best solar battery storage solution for your needs.

Batteries are the primary storage source for off-grid systems, but they also work as an emergency backup power source for grid-tied systems. Installing a grid-tied system with a solar battery backup also gives you the option to sell excess stored power back to the utility company at a later time.

We use deep cycle batteries to store power generated by solar panels, but they have plenty of other applications. Small electric vehicles and industrial equipment like forklifts, floor cleaners, scissor lifts, and golf carts are also powered by deep cycle batteries.

For more in-depth info on batteries, be sure to read our battery basics and battery maintenance pages