Backup Batteries for Solar Electric Systems
There are several factors involved when a PV system comes with an additional battery pack. Firstly, the batteries are an additional component to the solar power system. That means there will be some additional cost for installing it. The extra costs arise from the purchase of the battery pack, installing it at the right place with all the right circuits to ensure functionality, and the safety and maintenance of the battery pack on a regular basis to ensure continual functionality and safety.
Secondly, PV system batteries are all lead-acid. There is little possibility of these lead-acid based batteries to be changed to lithium-ion based batteries or to the simple and common fuel cell that is found in almost every household.
Lead-acid batteries are very, very heavy; they can weigh from hundreds to thousands of pounds. They are also bulky and take up a lot of space. Moreover, these lead-acid batteries can be a safety hazard three times over, as they have many cables and wires to their many connections, which can become dangerous in the event of a short circuit. Handling these batteries also gets tricky, since they contain sulfuric acid, an extremely acidic substance that can cause third degree burns on the skin. On top of that, these lead-acid batteries release hydrogen, a very combustible substance, as one of their by-products. Hydrogen is a definite fire hazard that understandably causes a great deal of concern about the occupants’ safety and health.
One way to address these overwhelming concerns is to place the lead-acid battery pack securely in a battery box that has been positioned in a safe location. It should be placed in an area that is always well ventilated to allow the hydrogen by-product to be dispelled quickly if it occurs so that the safety of the premises can be assured. In addition, it should be placed in an area that does not block any paths or emergency exits. A battery box that is located in a good position will not cause an obstruction in case of an emergency.
Alternatively, lead-acid batteries can be completely sealed to avoid hydrogen release and sulfuric acid seepage. But doing so will mean an extra cost for the sealing process and may also lead to a lower battery life span. Frequent replacement of these batteries will then incur further costs for the homeowner. Regular replacement, however, has the advantage of eliminating the task of refilling these batteries with distilled water regularly, which is a normal and necessary aspect of battery maintenance. Another plus is that all parts of the battery can be recycled when it is replaced with a new one, and that is good for the environment!
No matter what type of solar system you choose, the benefits of such a system will surely justify the motivation that led to the installation. The infinite scalability of any of solar systems that can be designed to fit your budget so that you can get your desired amount of electricity is enough reason to get one today.