There are two main types of solar panel batteries; lithium Ion and lead acid. Lithium ion are smaller and more efficient and are often used for domestic properties attached to the grid. Lead acid are larger, slightly cheaper and less efficient, usually used in off grid scenarios.
If you need advice on the battery solutions available to you get in touch.
If you don't have any solar panels installed there are many options available. We will discuss the benefits of a variety of battery storage systems and recommend the most suitable battery for your home. Installing a battery as a new PV array means VAT is zero-rated until 2027 which is a huge bonus.
There are many options available now for retrofitting batteries on an existing system which doesn't always mean taking out an existing inverter. We will discuss any changes that may be needed at our initial consultation.
At present solar panel systems attached to the grid are designed to switch off if there is a power failure. If you want your system to continue to work when there is a power failure, the best option currently is the Tesla Powerwall 2.0. This is largely down to the fact the Powerwall 2.0 is AC coupled.
An AC coupled battery is installed outside of the DC circuit. This means that there will be an inverter to convert solar production from DC to AC and another inverter to convert from AC to DC to store power. All batteries store in DC.
Multiple conversions mean a loss in efficiency. DC coupled inverters otherwise known as Hybrid inverters store electricity more efficiently, there is as much as 10% loss in multiple conversions.
AC-coupled battery installs are often the preferred choice of installers because the installation is quicker and easier.
The most efficient installs are always a DC Hybrid inverter. One App to view all monitoring of production and storage, one guarantee.
Even when retrofitting a battery to an existing solar install DC coupled are better suited.
With an AC install there is a second application that must be made to the District Network Operator ( Western Power) this is because you will have 2 generators at your property ( 2 inverters) each having the capability to export power effectively doubling what might go back to the grid. Grid restrictions often ask for smaller inverters or lower discharge rates which negates the point of an AC inverter.
Many installers will not opt for this option as Hybrid installs take longer and are more involved with the existing array however they are the better option for efficiency and monitoring platforms.
Harvest Cornwall Ltd, Unit 6 Darbari Building, Prow Park, Treloggan Industrial Estate, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 2SX
Harvest Renewables Cornwall Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative (Financial Services Register No. 998767) of Phoenix Financial Consultants Limited (Phoenix). Phoenix is a credit broker, not a lender. Phoenix is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 539195), and offers finance from its panel of lenders. All finance subject to status and credit checks.
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Harvest Cornwall Ltd, Unit 6 Darbari Building,
Prow Park,Newquay,TR7 2SX
01637 808244 / 01637 854997
hello@harvestcornwall.com
