A solar power battery is used within a solar power system to capture electrical energy generated by the solar panel or solar panel grid system to which it is connected. It holds that energy as DC current. From this solar power battery, the current can either be used directly by DC capable devices, or it can be sent through an inverter and boosted up to AC current for household use.
Solar power systems are becoming more popular today because of the desire by populations for less expensive, renewable, clean energy production. Some states in the United States, like Colorado, that have an abundance of sunny days, are moving forward quickly with solar power. New communities are being built to obtain a net zero energy cost, relying on large solar grid systems to provide much of the power to local residences on a group basis. There are large solar panel farms, which generate electrical power that is then sold to the local energy facility. Even with individual residences, arrangements can be made to sell excess energy back to the local energy grid.
The solar power battery is an integral part of any solar energy collection system. It must be sufficient to provide the amount of energy required by the user, either solely or in a grid system. For most household usage, a grid system would be required. For small devices, even a portable, foldable solar panel can be connected to a solar power battery for use in remote areas to power radios, lighting, GPS, and other small electronics.
Storage capacity of these batteries is expressed in terms of amps. If you connect batteries in series, you increase volts. If connected in parallel, you increase amps. Figuring how many amps you need to provide enough amp hours of power is a little complicated; you should consult with your solar equipment provider to determine the proper number and size of batteries you need for your particular requirements.
There are different types of batteries, but lead-acid types are most used for photovoltaic storage because they are low cost and available everywhere. Temperature has some effect on lead-acid battery capacity. Care should be taken to avoid complete discharge of batteries or leaving them dead for periods of time, as they may not be able to be rejuvenated. Care should be taken when working with batteries, especially lead-acid, or wet batteries so you do not get acid burns. Again, consulting with your solar power battery provider will be of great assistance to your project success.
You can measure your battery condition with a voltmeter over several hours to determine its charging percent. Do not allow your battery to become fully discharged or you may not be able to recharge it again. Batteries can be stored inside a building on racks. There are a lot of options to choose from when selecting your battery system, so be sure that you understand all the benefits before you make a selection.
Installing your solar panels and solar power battery system is the expensive part of your system. Once you are past the initial investment, your electrical power is generated in the solar panels, stored in your battery system, and ready for use on call. There will be no bills from the power company for your solar power. You want to have enough storage capacity to handle the non sunny hours and cloudy days. Or, combine with another power system such as wind turbines to help cover those periods without sunshine. Since it is a considerable investment, be sure you have sound advice when purchasing, and installing your solar system.