How to Store Solar Electricity for Personal Use on Cloudy Days

As the world increasingly shifts towards renewable energy, storing solar electricity becomes crucial, especially for personal use during cloudy days or nighttime. This article explores the methods and technologies available for effectively storing solar energy, providing reliable power during periods of low sunlight. We will also examine the advantages and limitations of different storage solutions, particularly focusing on battery storage systems and their practical applications in residential and small business settings.

Introduction to Solar Energy Storage

Storing solar energy for use during periods of low sunlight involves employing various battery storage systems. These can range from lithium-ion batteries and flow batteries, which are more commonly used in residential settings, to larger-scale technologies such as pumped hydro storage, compressed air energy storage, and thermal energy storage. These grid-scale solutions are designed to store surplus solar energy and ensure a reliable power supply during cloudy days or at night.

The Practical Way: Battery Storage Systems

The most practical and widely implemented method for storing solar energy is through home energy system batteries. These batteries can be integrated directly with solar panels to capture and store the solar electricity produced during periods of high sunlight. When the demand exceeds the available solar production, the stored energy can be harnessed to power various household appliances.

Another method is net metering, a concept where the electric meter provides a credit for any excess power produced by the solar system. However, this method is more of a theoretical idea than a practical one. The actual physical power is not available for use during times of no sunlight. Instead, it is a credit that can only be utilized during periods when solar production is less or non-existent.

Cost and Practicality of Battery Storage

The cost of storing solar energy with batteries can be significant. A residential system capable of storing several days worth of sunshine can easily cost thousands of dollars. For instance, expect to pay around $1,000 for each kWh of storage. Therefore, it is essential to assess the duration and frequency of cloudy days in your area to determine the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of such a system.

For a home or small business, the best current solution remains battery technology, albeit with its associated costs. Integrating a hybrid battery inverter allows you to store substantial amounts of energy, enough to power your household for nearly a full day. During the majority of the year, this system can store your extra PV solar production during the day and run your house overnight until the sun returns. On other days, you may need to rely on grid power until there is sufficient sunlight again.

A grid-tied PV solar power system typically needs to shut down when the grid fails. However, having a storage system and a transfer switch can keep the lights on and the refrigerator running, even during grid outages. It is particularly advantageous as it ensures continuous power supply to critical appliances and services. In my case, the storage system also ensures that my computer, TV, and Dish Network system remain operational during power outages.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while storing solar electricity can be cost-prohibitive, it is a vital component of a resilient and self-sufficient energy strategy. By understanding the available storage solutions and their practical applications, homeowners and small businesses can make informed decisions that align with their energy needs and budget constraints.