4 Questions to Ask Before Installing Solar Power Storage Systems
People who want to install solar power in their homes have the option of installing storage batteries for the excess energy generated. Some of those homeowners may not have sufficient information that can help them to decide whether they should include the solar energy storage system or not. This article discusses some questions that can elicit the information that can help you to make an informed decision.
What Battery Technology Is Used?
Storage batteries can vary in efficiency based on the technology that was used to make them. For instance, lithium-ion batteries incur lower energy losses when compared to lead-acid batteries. The benefits that you can get from that power storage system may therefore depend on the technology that was used to make the batteries. The technology used can also impose other restrictions, such as the desirable storage space. For instance, heavy batteries may need to be installed on the ground floor of buildings. This can increase the installation cost since more cables will be needed to connect those batteries to the rooftop panels.
Can the System Work During an Outage?
Some solar power storage systems may be unable to work in case there is a failure in the municipal power supply to the home. Others can work during such an outage. It is therefore helpful to know how that solar power storage system interacts with the grid so that you select the best option for your needs.
What Is My Domestic Load?
A solar power storage system is desirable only if you generate more energy than you consume during the daytime hours. The installer should be able to tell you how much energy you use during the day so that you can know the excess energy that can be stored in the batteries. Only buy the storage system if the excess energy is worth making that investment in the storage batteries.
How Will My Incentives Be Affected?
Some municipalities or states offer rebates and other incentives to people who install solar energy in their homes. However, some of those incentives may only be available to people who will be sending the excess energy to the national grid. You should therefore be certain that the energy savings that you make will compensate for any incentives that you are ineligible for if you opt for a solar power storage system.
The questions above will help you to decide whether it is worthwhile to use a solar power storage system on your residential property. Ask an expert to respond to any other concerns that you may have before you make a final decision.