HOW BATTERY STORAGE WORKS
Save more than just power with battery storage
Types of Energy Storage Systems
DC Coupled Storage
Installed between the solar panels and inverter, this system senses when excess power is being produced and redirects it to the batteries. Later, when you are consuming more power than you're producing, this power is then released into your inverter. One of the advantages of this system is that power is stored in the batteries before it is converted into AC, saving on unnecessary conversions later on. A limitation of this configuration is that you're unable to draw power from the grid and store it for use later on. It also can't be configured to provide power in a grid outage. This solution however is cost effective, efficient and usually quite easy to retrofit into existing systems.
AC Coupled Storage
AC coupled storage is the most common type of storage. While not as efficient or as cost effective as storing solar energy than DC coupled, AC coupled solutions have significant advantages over DC coupled. AC coupled storage can draw power from the grid, enabling home owners purchase power at cheaper rates, ensuring you don't draw from the grid at peak times. AC coupled systems can also be configured for battery backup and can store excess solar energy. AC coupled systems work independently of solar power systems, so they're completely retrofittable and also allow you to draw on other energy sources. While expensive, many of these are used today, making it a proven technology.
Hybrid Inverters
Hybrid inverters are purpose built for solar and batteries, providing significant advantages. Hybrid inverters are technically DC and AC coupled solutions, so you get the benefits of each. Firstly, you can store power in the battery before it is converted to AC, saving on unnecessary future conversions. As is it also AC coupled, you can still incorporate features like battery backup and storing power during cheaper times. All the monitoring is also done from one unit, so you don't have to worry about separate monitoring packages for both your storage and solar systems. We are now seeing more and more of these units as they a great fit for residents looking to incorporate solar and storage.
BENEFITS OF BATTERY SYSTEMS
Benefits of Energy Storage Systems
Energy storage systems are now a reality, and homes like yours is where it begins. In the next few years, we will see a fundamental shift in the way all energy users meet their energy requirements and how utility providers integrate with storage systems. For home owners, they can benefit right now from energy storage in a variety of ways.
Optimising Solar Power
Excess solar energy produced during the day is sold back to the retailer for a fraction of what home owners pay. Now energy storage systems will enable home owners to store their excess energy and use it at peak times, like late afternoon. This increases self consumption of solar energy and improves the return from a solar power system.
Peak Shaving
Almost all energy providers offer time of use tariffs. These tariffs charge a premium for energy during peak times, like the middle of the day in summer, while offering lower rates during non peak times. Energy storage systems enable homes to purchase and store energy at non peak times and use it at peak times, reducing their energy costs.
Backup Power
Energy storage systems can be configured to provide backup power in the event of an outage. Home owners can choose to run their whole house, or configure essential circuits - like lights, fridges, security, fire alarms, internet or medical equipment. This is perfect for people in remote or unreliable power areas or for those who can’t risk losing power.
Types of Energy Storage Systems
Storage systems for the home can fall into three main categories, DC Coupled, AC Coupled and Hybrid. Retrofitting is possible, however those purchasing new systems are encouraged to purchase a Hybrid inverter, for direct battery connection now or later. Each option has benefits and drawbacks, so consultant with an expert to determine which is right for you.