What Are the Different Solar Battery Types, and Which One Is Best for Your Needs (and Pocket)?

There has probably never been a greater interest in alternative energy solutions in South Africa as right now. As we all struggle to navigate the ever-changing loadshedding schedule, the big question is which solution is the best? This goes for both efficiency as well as affordability, since going off the grid is not a cheap exercise.

The biggest expense – and the most necessary to ensure an uninterrupted supply of power – is your choice of battery. There are a number of different solar battery types on the market, each with its own benefits and uses, so which one do you choose?

Let’s take a closer look at the three main types of solar battery that are most commonly available for private use in South Africa:

1. Lithium-ion batteries

This is the most expensive option, but also the most popular. This is because lithium-ion batteries are safe to use indoors, can easily be scaled as demands change, can be discharged to up to 90% without causing damage, and have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries. Their popularity means they are slowly becoming more affordable.

2. Lead-acid batteries

These batteries have been around the longest if the options mentioned here. While they are significantly cheaper than lithium-ion batteries, their lifespan is also much shorter, meaning they have to be replaced more frequently. Additionally, they pose the risk of leaking, which means they have to be installed in a well-ventilated area outside of living quarters.

3. Redox flow batteries

The initial cost of redox flow batteries can typically be inexpensive compared to lithium-ion batteries and their lifespan is impressive, but they also require a lot more storage space due to their size/output ratio, and the setup and maintenance costs are much higher over time.

For more information on the different solar battery types available and how to make the best choice to meet your needs, talk to the team at Switch Electrical. As a reputable supplier of quality electrical equipment, we’re here to help you take back your power.