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By 2050, nearly 50% of the electricity fed into the grid will be generated from renewable sources. However, their intermittent nature means that solutions must be found to match electricity production with demand. In this respect BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) are highly effective. They use batteries (mostly lithium-ion) to store energy and then release it as needed. Here are a series of answers to the main questions about these devices. Home energy storage systems store generated electricity or heat, so that you can use the energy when you need it.
Electricity can be stored in electrical batteries, or it can be converted into heat and stored in a heat battery. Heat can also be stored in heat batteries or in thermal storage, such as a hot water cylinder.
Energy storage can be useful for people who generate their own renewable energy, as it allows them to use more of their low carbon energy.
For example, electricity generated during the day by solar PV panels could be stored in an electric battery for you to use for boiling the kettle or watching TV in the evening when your solar PV panels are no longer generating electricity.
The battery size and its cost depends on your current energy use and the size of any generation technologies you have installed. You may also want to plan around future electricity use if you are intending to purchase an electric vehicle (EV) or heat your home with a heat pump. In the UK, the average cost to install a home solar battery is around £5,000, with prices varying depending on the battery's capacity, brand, and installation factors; a typical 5kWh battery for a medium-sized home would fall within this range.
Frequently asked questions...
How does Solar work with Battery Storage?
Battery storage is typically installed for customers who already have, or are considering, a solar panel system. This is because a significant amount of the solar electricity generated is often not used immediately. By storing this excess electricity in a battery, you can access it later, whether during the day or at night, ensuring you make the most out of your solar investment.
What is the lifespan of a Battery?
Over time, lithium-ion batteries gradually degrade hence, they can no longer hold 100% of their charge. For example, a battery that can store 10 kWh in Year 1 might only be able to store 9.5 kWh after a couple of years. Most batteries should last for about 10 years with acceptable degradation at 80%.
What is a Back Up System?
Grid Backup ESS or UPS, what is the same, is a comprehensive solution that combines an AC Charger Inverter (Grid-Backup Inverter) and a Battery while remaining directly connected to the utility grid. In a mains-powered setup, the system ensures that the AC appliances are not interrupted even if the mains electricity is unstable, intermittent or the power is suddenly cut off. These systems are ideal for areas prone to power outages, like those experiencing load-shedding, where essential loads require dependable backup power. They are also beneficial in situations where night time power is necessary.
How long is the Warranty?
Battery storage systems offer a range of warranties that vary by manufacturer and product. One key warranty to look for is the product warranty, which generally protects against defects in materials and workmanship for a duration of 5 to 10 years. During this time, manufacturers will cover repairs or replacements for any defective parts at no cost to you. Additionally, if your system features separate battery cells and an AC inverter, the inverter typically comes with a -year warranty, which can often be extended to 10 for an additional fee. All warranty details will be clearly outlined in the datasheet provided with our proposals.