The growing interest in energy storage systems has garnered a lot of attention over the last few decades. Therefore, if you’re considering installing solar panels or another form of sustainable energy, it’s important to know how energy storage systems work. Here is a detailed analysis of how such systems integrate with your solar panels and what you can expect in terms of energy storage.
How Does a Solar Panel Work?
Before we get into how storage systems work with solar energy panels, it’s important to understand how your solar panel works in the first place. In a nutshell, a solar panel provides you with the required amount of energy and also comes with additional equipment to store it.
This means that when your panel has produced more than the required energy, it will get stored in a grid. On the other hand, if you’re using more energy than what the panel is producing, you can pull some electricity from the grid to fulfill your needs.
The net metering feature ensures your meter runs in reverse if you apply more energy to the grid. However, the amount you get billed at the end of the month should be for the net electricity you use.
How Does a Solar Plus Storage System Work?
With previous solar systems, you had to export the extra production of energy to a grid. However, with a storage system, you do not need to store the energy in a grid. Instead, you can use that energy to charge your storage system. Once the sun sets, you can use the energy stored in the solar battery instead of the grid.
What steps are involved in the process?
- First, solar panels convert sunlight into electric power.
- The solar inverter converts the direct current into alternating current toyou’re your appliances.
- Then the switchboard distributes the electric power to all the appliances.
- The inverter makes the energy storable.
- Then, as soon as the sun sets, the stored energy in the battery provides power to all the appliances.
- The battery sends the stored power from the inverter to your home.
- The inverter works by converting the energy into a usable form.
- The switchboard sends the energy to the machines and appliances in your house.
- Once the battery is fully charged, the grid will act as a backup that provides energy to the appliances.
Battery vs. Grid
The former is preferred over the latter because it allows you to cut down on high utility rates. For example, if you are on a rate based on varying times, you can simply stop using power from the battery during peak hours. However, if the rates you pay are based on a demand charge, then a battery helps you decrease the charge every month. This way, you are able to save costs with a battery.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, solar panels are a great source of energy. However, by combining it with a storage system, you can enjoy undisturbed distribution of power throughout the day and night with low utility rates.
