As solar technology advances and prices continue to fall, many people are turning to it as an alternative source of electricity for their homes. However, making sure your home is outfitted with the right solar battery system can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the different types available.
It’s important to understand how each battery type works and what its advantages are – so that you can make an informed decision about which type best suits your needs and budget. In this guide, we will explore all the different types of solar batteries currently on the market.
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Solar battery types in Australia
When it comes to solar batteries, there are four main options to choose from, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. From lithium-ion to lead acid, these solar storage units offer varying capacities and life spans.
Here are the basics:
- Lead acid: One of the oldest and most common battery types. Although they can be quite bulky, lead acid batteries are typically more affordable but have a shorter lifespan when compared to other options. Expect an estimated lifespan of five to seven years
- Lithium-ion: These are the most popular solar battery type for home use in Australia. They’re lightweight, require little to no maintenance, and have a long lifespan of up to 15 years. They’re also highly efficient and can charge and discharge faster than lead acid batteries. While lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than their lead acid counterparts, they’re quickly becoming more affordable
- Flow: Flow batteries are a newer type of battery that uses two different electrolytes separated by a membrane to store electricity. Because they’re made up of liquid electrolytes, they generally have a decent lifespan of between five and 15 years
- Sodium nickel chloride: Like flow batteries, sodium nickel chloride battery technology is relatively new to Australia. These batteries use salt and nickel to generate power and are gaining popularity as they have high power density and an average lifespan of 15 years
Pros and cons of each solar battery type
Here is a snapshot of what you can expect from the four most common solar battery types in Australia:
| Solar Battery Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lead acid |
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| Lithium-ion |
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| Flow |
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| Sodium nickel chloride |
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What type of battery is best for solar?
When it comes to powering your solar system, choosing the right battery can make a significant difference in your overall experience. So, what type of battery is best for solar? Well, the answer isn’t exactly straightforward. Still, for most residential or small business solar systems, lithium-ion batteries are typically considered the best option.
They offer a longer lifespan, greater efficiency, and can be charged and discharged more frequently than other types of batteries. Plus, they require less maintenance than traditional lead-acid batteries, making them a more convenient choice for solar owners. At the end of the day, the best battery for solar ultimately depends on the specific needs of your system.
Compare solar plans & prices
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Key considerations before buying a solar battery
Before you hit the ‘buy’ button or sign up your credit card, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, consider how much energy you actually use and when you use it. This will help determine the size and type of battery you need.
Then you’ll also need to do some research on the brand of battery to ensure it’s reliable and has good reviews. And if you’re installing a battery onto an existing solar power system, it’s worth finding out if your current setup is equipped to handle the additional load of the battery. A licensed installer should be able to address these considerations.
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Are battery storage solutions worth the extra investment?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on a range of factors that ultimately boil down to your personal circumstances. Aside from your house and car, buying a solar battery (or several) can prove to be one of the biggest investments you make, which is why it’s best to speak to an expert before signing on the dotted line.
With the increasing demand for renewable energy, it’s essential to understand the different types of batteries available to homeowners in Australia. While there are many options on the market, these four – lead-acid, lithium-ion, flow, and sodium nickel chloride – are the most commonly used solar battery types.
There are pros and cons to each of these batteries, so it’s crucial to assess your needs and choose the one that’s best suited for your solar energy storage requirements. Once you choose the right one, you can enjoy uninterrupted power and save on energy bills while also being a contributor to a cleaner environment.
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