Rechargeable batteries(32)

A battery is an essential component of any off-grid or hybrid solar system. It stores energy generated by the panels or drawn from the grid, and releases it during the hours of darkness or in the event of a power cut. The Altek.ua catalogue features lead-acid AGM/GEL and lithium iron phosphate LiFePO4 batteries of various capacities – for domestic solar power systems, backup power supplies and industrial facilities.

Rechargeable battery for home and business use

The battery in a solar power station is responsible for storing energy. Whilst the panels are generating a surplus of electricity, the battery stores it; then, in the evening or at night, when panel output drops to a minimum, or in the event of a power cut, it feeds power back into the system. It is thanks to these batteries that the house continues to receive electricity even during power cuts.

A reliable battery is particularly important for hybrid and off-grid systems. If the capacity is insufficient or the battery performs erratically, the system will be unable to provide a full backup power supply.

Batteries for solar systems: features and applications

The battery in a solar power system operates in a continuous charge/discharge cycle. This is a fundamental difference from a car starter battery. Solar systems require deep-cycle batteries. These are designed to be discharged daily to 50–80% of their capacity without suffering accelerated degradation. They are used in systems:

• hybrid solar power stations – for storing solar energy and providing a backup during power cuts;
• off-grid solar power stations – as the main power source at night;
• backup power supply – for offices, boiler rooms and medical facilities.

A correctly selected battery increases the system’s runtime, reduces the number of inverter cycles and minimises wear and tear on the inverter.

Types of rechargeable batteries

There are two main types available on the market that are used in solar systems:

• Lead-acid AGM/GEL: affordable price, proven technology. Maximum depth of discharge – 50%, cycle life – 400–600 cycles. Require moderate temperatures – 0 to +40°C.
• Lithium iron phosphate LiFePO4: depth of discharge up to 80%, cycle life – 2,000–6,000 cycles, maintenance-free, significantly lighter. More expensive initially, but considerably more cost-effective when calculated per cycle.

LiFePO4 is increasingly being chosen for new hybrid solar power systems and backup power systems, particularly where installation space is limited.

How do I choose a battery?

The key parameter is capacity in kWh. It is calculated using the following formula: average daily consumption (kWh) × number of hours of autonomy ÷ allowable depth of discharge. For example, for a consumption of 3 kWh at night and a discharge of up to 80%, a battery bank with a capacity of ~3.75 kWh is required.

Operating voltage (12/24/48 V), compatibility with the inverter and the operating temperature range are also taken into account. If the battery is to be located in an unheated room, check the model’s minimum operating temperature.

Buy rechargeable batteries in Ukraine: prices and specifications

You can buy rechargeable batteries on Altek.ua with delivery to Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro and throughout Ukraine. Current prices are listed in the catalogue. Our range is regularly updated. To select the right model for your system, please contact a manager or use our online consultation service. Altek’s specialists will select the capacity and type based on your inverter and load.