5 Differences between Battery Solar Storage and Non-Battery Solar Systems
One question we get asked is ‘What is the difference between Battery Solar Storage and Non-Battery Solar Systems’ and ‘What is the right option to choose for my Park Home?’
While we can’t answer these questions quickly due to every Park Home Owners situation differing, we would highly recommend you discussing your requirements with an approved Solar Installation Company.
Platinum Park Home Services are MCS Approved for Solar Installations, so if you are considering Solar Storage then please contact us on 0800 222 9722 as our Solar Energy Advisors are happy to answer any technical questions you may have, and talk through the options for the optimum Solar Energy and Storage System for your Park Home.
However, to shed some light on the debate between Battery Solar Storage and Non-Batter Solar Systems, we have written the top 5 differences between the two below.
Battery solar storage and non-battery solar systems differ primarily in their ability to store generated energy for later use.
Energy Storage
Battery Solar Storage: Battery solar storage systems incorporate batteries to store excess energy produced during periods of high generation (e.g., sunny days) for later use when energy demand exceeds generation (e.g., at night or during cloudy weather). This allows for increased energy independence and the ability to utilise solar power even when the sun isn’t shining.
Non-Battery Solar: Traditional non-battery solar systems do not have energy storage capabilities. Any excess energy generated during periods of high sunlight that isn’t immediately consumed by the connected load is typically exported to the grid if there is a net-metering arrangement, or it goes unused.
Grid Independence
Battery Solar Storage: Battery systems allow for greater grid independence since stored energy can be used during grid outages or during peak demand periods when electricity prices are higher. This can provide resilience and potentially cost savings.
Non-Battery Solar: Non-battery solar systems rely entirely on grid connection for energy supply when solar energy is unavailable (e.g., at night). They do not provide energy during grid outages unless coupled with additional backup solutions like generators.
Flexibility and Control
Battery Solar Storage: Battery systems offer greater flexibility and control over energy usage. Users can decide when to store energy and when to use it, optimising their consumption patterns to minimise grid reliance or take advantage of time-of-use tariffs.
Non-Battery Solar: Non-battery solar systems have less flexibility as energy must be used immediately or exported to the grid. There is limited control over when and how the energy is consumed beyond the immediate needs of the connected load.
Costs
Battery Solar Storage: Battery storage systems generally involve higher upfront costs due to the additional components required (e.g., batteries, inverters, control systems). However, they can provide long-term cost savings through reduced reliance on grid electricity and potential revenue from grid services like demand response.
Non-Battery Solar: Non-battery solar systems typically have lower upfront costs since they only involve solar panels, inverters, and associated components. However, they may result in higher long-term costs if energy needs exceed solar generation capacity or if grid electricity prices increase significantly.
Environmental Impact
Battery Solar Storage: The environmental impact of battery storage systems depends on factors like battery chemistry, manufacturing processes, and disposal/recycling practices. While batteries can contribute to environmental impact, they also enable greater utilisation of renewable energy sources like solar, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and overall carbon emissions.
Non-Battery Solar: Non-battery solar systems have a lower direct environmental impact since they do not involve energy storage components. However, their environmental benefits are contingent on the grid’s energy mix, as reliance on grid electricity may still involve fossil fuels or other non-renewable sources.