Solar Batteries

1
Solar Batteries

• Batteries are a key component of both grid tie w/
  back-up and stand alone solar energy systems

2
Three Types of Batteries used in Solar Systems

• Flooded lead acid
• Absorbed Glass Mat Sealed Lead Acid
• Gelled Electrolyte Sealed Lead Acid

3
Flooded Lead Acid

• Have longest track record in solar usage
• Longest lifespan
• Least cost per amp hour
• High maintenance

4
Absorbed Glass Mat Sealed Lead Acid

• Ideal for grid tied solar w/ battery back-up
• Low to no maintenance
• Becoming more affordable

5
Gelled Electrolyte Sealed Lead Acid

• Charges slower than other two types
• Predates AGM batteries but are losing market
  share

6
Deep Cycle vs Shallow Cycle

• Deep
• Deep cycle batteries can be repeatedly discharged
  to 80 and recharged without damaging them
• Recommended for use with solar

• Shallow
• Occurs when the top 20 or less of the batteries
  energy is discharged and then recharged
• Shallow cycle batteries not recommended for solar
  use

7
Weather Effects Batteries Performance

• The charging and discharging of the batteries is
  governed by temperature and charge/discharge
  current
• The colder the temp. the slower the reactions,
  and the warmer the faster the reactions
• Optimum temp. for a lead acid battery is 77
  degrees F

8
Keep good care of your batteries!

• Battery voltage should be kept at or above 50
  state of charge at all times for maximum battery
  life
• Use only distilled water to fill batteries, never
  tap
• Keep batteries electrolyte level at the marked
  full level

9
The End.