Today, solar power systems are one of the most efficient ways to produce clean and renewable energy. In addition to having several long-term benefits, solar PV systems also drastically reduce carbon emissions and pollution, as they largely only require sunlight for power production. However, in order to generate electricity, solar plants also need various components, including solar PV panels, an inverter, a mounting structure, and cables & connectors.
But what about a solar panel battery? While a solar panel battery is not necessary for electricity production, it can make an excellent addition to your solar power system. As the name suggests, solar batteries are storage devices designed to store excess energy generated by the PV modules. The stored power can then be utilized during nighttime, electricity cuts, or when the solar panels are not generating sufficient power – which is possible during cloudy or rainy weather conditions.
A solar panel battery is usually installed with off-grid (also known as stand-alone solar power systems) solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which work independently of the local electricity grid. This enables you to utilize all of the solar energy that is produced throughout the day, and not having a grid connection and battery backup would only result in electricity wastage.
However, today, you even have the option to opt for a solar panel battery in on-grid/grid-connected solar PV systems. But this will convert the on-grid PV system into a hybrid PV system as it will be dependent on the local grid and also have battery backup.
So, now that you know the purpose and function of a solar panel battery, let’s discuss the types available in the market.
Types of Solar Panel Batteries
In India, solar panel batteries are available in the following two types:
1. Tubular Solar Panel Batteries
A tubular solar panel battery is designed using a series of tubes, creating a grid-like structure. The tubes are made of thick electrodes, which is why the battery produces low currents for a prolonged period. This also makes tubular solar batteries suitable for regions that experience extended but fewer electricity cuts.
Additionally, a tubular solar panel battery is efficient, reliable, and has a long service life. It is best suited for heavy-duty applications, including the use of everyday appliances such as air conditioners, washing machines, printers, etcetera. Better yet, tubular solar batteries do not require water top-ups, which means that there is little to no maintenance required. However, it is essential to know that tubular batteries are slightly expensive compared to their counterparts.
2. Flat-Plate Solar Panel Batteries
This type of solar panel battery is manufactured using thick flat plates that are sealed in plastic housing. Compared to tubular batteries, flat-plate batteries produce high current levels in a small amount of time. As a result, they require frequent water top-ups but this also makes a flat-plate solar panel battery charge faster.
Moreover, a flat-plate solar panel battery is best suited for regions with frequent yet minimal power outages as it is not as efficient as its counterparts. And when it comes to their design, flat-plate solar batteries are sleek and compact, which makes them a popular choice for domestic areas. Plus, a flat-plate solar panel battery is quite affordable and you can consider buying one if you’re on a budget.
So, that covers everything you need to know about a solar panel battery. However, if you plan to invest in one, be sure to opt for a reliable and reputable brand like Luminous. Luminous offers a wide range of solar panel batteries with top-notch features at affordable prices, so make sure you explore their website!
