Solar energy storage is necessary in ensuring a constant supply of power because solar panels generate electricity only when the sun is shining. Different solar energy storage technologies can be utilized for use during sunless times, e.g., night or rainy days.
Battery storage is the most common method of storing solar energy. Excess electricity produced by solar panels is stored in batteries, primarily lithium-ion batteries like Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) units. Batteries are preferred since they are efficient, durable, and safe to employ. Battery storage systems find uses in domestic and commercial applications.
Thermal storage systems store solar energy in the form of heat. Solar energy is stored during the day and stored away in insulated tanks using substances like molten salt or water. Heat can then be used to provide warmth or reused as electricity when required. Storage is widely practiced in solar power plants on a commercial scale.
Mechanical energy storage systems, such as Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES), store energy through physical processes. Surplus electricity compresses air that is stored in underground caverns. During the need for energy, the compressed air is expanded, heated, and released to drive turbines and generate electricity. This system is typically used in large-scale applications.
Chemical storage involves the process of converting surplus solar electricity to chemical fuels such as hydrogen through a process called electrolysis. The hydrogen can be stored and used to generate electricity using fuel cells. The technology is still in the stage of development but is expected to have application in long-duration storage and off-grid applications.
All of these storage types find their use in terms of scale and application. Battery storage is the most widely used solution currently available for household use, while thermal and mechanical storage are industrial and utility-scale applications. Chemical storage is where the future is likely to unfold in energy storage.
When looking at the storage of solar energy, it is worth assessing your energy requirements, budget, and size of your solar installation in order to select the best solution.
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Our 20kW Off-Grid Solar Power System utilizes the most advanced photovoltaic technology and an all-digital control platform.
The wall-mounted LiFePO4 batteries are designed for deep-cycle, high-density backup power in solar home systems. Very long service life and superior recharge efficiency guarantee low maintenance energy storage.
