Which solar battery stands out as the best?
For those with rooftop solar installations, the potential to generate surplus energy is a benefit. When your system produces more energy than your home consumes, the excess can often be sent back to the grid via net metering, where your utility compensates you for this surplus. Another option is to store this excess energy in a battery, allowing you to utilize it when needed. By investing in battery storage, you can maximize the value of your solar energy and enjoy greater control over your power consumption.
When you have a fully charged battery, you’re able to avoid costly peak utility periods, reduce your reliance on the grid, use solar power after the sun sets, and make sure that you have backup power during unexpected outages. This level of energy independence can be valuable in areas prone to power interruptions or those experiencing rising energy costs. Pairing your solar system with adequate battery storage also opens the door to living off-grid, offering a sustainable and self-reliant energy solution.
We researched and evaluated over twelve different solar batteries to determine which ones offer the best performance and value for homeowners. It’s important to note that our selections were made not based on hands-on testing, which is challenging due to the size and integration requirements of solar batteries, but rather through a thorough assessment of manufacturers’ product specifications, accessible data, and a carefully crafted research methodology. The following batteries are the ones we believe stand out in terms of efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance for homeowners seeking the best in solar energy storage.
Top Solar Batteries of The Year
Tesla Powerwall
Top Choice
The Tesla Powerwall is notably average for household batteries, which can be a strength. Its infinite cycle warranty is certainly impressive. However, its shortcomings lie in its lack of modularity, customer support, and its single size offering. Want more capacity? You’d need to purchase an additional 13.5kWh unit. To lear more read our Tesla battery review.
Sonnen EcoLinx
Best for Virtual Power Plants (VPPs)
With the Sonnen EcoLinx, you get reliable backup power and access to a virtual power plant (VPP) network, which can help lower your electricity costs and even provide opportunities for additional earnings. This network allows you to share your stored energy with the grid, contributing to the stability of the energy system and receiving compensation in return. The system’s modular design means you can scale it according to your needs, making it a flexible choice for homeowners. Sonnen also offers a solid warranty, ensuring peace of mind over the long term.
The EcoLinx comes at a higher price point compared to some other solar batteries on the market, which might make it less accessible for those on a budget. While it offers impressive features, the system’s efficiency could be better. Despite these drawbacks, the combination of backup power, VPP connectivity, and high-quality construction makes the Sonnen EcoLinx a worthwhile investment for those looking for long-term, sustainable energy solutions.
LGES 16H Prime
Top Value Option
The LGES 16H Prime offers impressive performance for its price, making it an appealing option for homeowners looking for a higher capacity solar battery without breaking the bank. One of its advantages is that it doesn’t require solar panels to operate, providing flexibility for those who may already have an existing solar setup or those considering expanding in the future.
While the 16H Prime excels in terms of capacity, it doesn’t offer many features beyond its core functionality. Its warranty is fairly standard, which may not provide as much peace of mind as some higher-end alternatives. Another downside is that expanding the system to increase capacity can be both cumbersome and expensive, limiting flexibility for users who anticipate growing their energy storage needs. Despite these drawbacks, the LGES 16H Prime remains a solid, budget-friendly choice for those seeking reliable performance and energy storage capacity.
Enphase IQ 10T
Budget Friendly
Enphase batteries are a popular choice for those on a budget due to their affordability and solid performance. These batteries offer a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to integrate energy storage with their solar power system without breaking the bank. It’s important to note that choosing Enphase batteries often means sacrificing some power and efficiency, particularly in AC-coupled setups. In these configurations, the conversion of DC to AC power can result in slight energy losses compared to DC-coupled systems, which could affect overall efficiency. While Enphase provides an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers, it’s essential to weigh the trade-off between lower upfront costs and potentially reduced system performance when making your decision.
Panasonic Evervolt Home Battery
Flexibility
The Panasonic Evervolt Home Battery presents users with a modular design without compromising power. This battery is available in capacities of 9, 13.5, and 18kWh, with the flexibility to extend by 4.5kWh segments. A notable feature is its robust 12-year warranty, complemented by a steady continuous power delivery (7.6kW). However, its AC round-trip efficiency and depth of discharge do not quite meet our expectations.
What is the function of solar batteries?
Solar batteries offer several advantages, especially when it comes to energy independence and reliability. They provide a reliable backup during power outages, ensuring essential appliances stay operational even when the grid goes down. Solar batteries help reduce electricity costs by storing excess energy produced during the day, which can be used at night or during peak hours when electricity prices are higher. For those interested in off-grid living, solar batteries offer the potential to disconnect from the grid entirely, providing complete energy autonomy and eliminating electricity bills.
There are also some drawbacks to consider. The most significant is the high upfront cost, as solar batteries can be as expensive as or even more costly than the solar panels themselves. Depending on your energy needs, you may require multiple batteries, which can take up valuable space and further increase your investment. While they provide long-term savings, solar batteries require maintenance and may eventually need to be replaced, adding to your overall costs over time.
Selecting the right solar battery:
Picking a solar battery is not solely about its price tag. It’s essential to find one that aligns with your home’s energy consumption and can provide the required power, especially if you have large electrical devices like HVAC systems, fridges, or even EVs.
When weighing your options, factor in battery modularity (the flexibility to increase capacity if needed) and compatibility with your solar panels. Given the substantial investment, also compare battery warranties. Generally, solar batteries last between five and 15 years, with most companies offering a 10-year warranty.
It’s crucial not to rush this decision. Examine the variety of options and seek quotations from diverse installers to pinpoint the ideal battery tailored to your home’s energy demands.
AC vs. DC coupling:
The differentiation between AC and DC coupling lies in how electricity travels from your solar panels to your battery. Direct Current (DC) involves electricity flowing in one direction, whereas Alternating Current (AC) means the current periodically reverses direction.
For AC-coupled systems, the stored electricity must be converted (inverted) several times before your home can use it. Here, DC electricity from panels goes to an inverter which converts it to AC, and this is then converted back to DC for battery storage.
On the other hand, in DC-coupled systems, the solar-generated DC electricity needs just one inversion to AC to power the house, or it remains in DC form, heading directly to the battery.
Each configuration has its merits and drawbacks. AC systems, being older, are generally cheaper and simpler to install, but they lack the efficiency of DC systems. Though more intricate and pricier to set up, DC systems usually deliver better efficiency and performance.
Ensuring Compatibility:
It’s essential to remember that not all solar batteries will work with every solar panel setup. Some are exclusive to specific manufacturers, while others can work with multiple brands. If you already have panels but no battery, ensure the battery you’re considering aligns with your existing system. Your installer should guide you on compatibility.
Understanding Battery Capacity:
The capacity of a battery, denoted in kilowatt-hours (kWh), represents its energy storage potential. The higher the kWh, the more energy it can store. But bigger doesn’t always mean better. The key is to install a battery that meets your consumption needs, possibly allowing for future upgrades. Consulting an energy audit or your installer can help determine the right size.
Considering Battery Modularity:
Modularity indicates how easy it is to adjust the battery capacity as your energy needs evolve. Questions to think about include: Can I expand the current battery? Do I need to purchase a new one? How many can I connect at once? And do they need to be identical? Some batteries are designed for effortless capacity enhancements, while others aren’t.
Understanding Round-trip Efficiency:
This metric shows the battery’s efficiency in storing energy. It indicates the proportion of energy that gets stored for later use. Higher efficiencies mean less energy wastage during the storage process.
Considering Depth of Discharge:
This refers to the percentage of the battery’s total capacity you can safely use without causing damage. Most batteries specify their maximum and usable capacities. The depth of discharge can be calculated using these figures.
Evaluating Power Output:
Solar batteries provide both peak (maximum power for short durations) and continuous power outputs. Depending on your home’s size and appliance usage, you’ll want appropriate power outputs. Check manufacturer data sheets, especially if you’re considering an off-grid setup.
Examining Warranties:
Given the expense of solar batteries, warranties are paramount. Typical warranties last about a decade, covering a certain number of cycles and a percentage of the battery’s original capacity by the warranty’s end. Some even include a throughput figure, representing the total energy the battery should deliver in its lifetime. When shopping, always compare warranties and scrutinize their terms.
Solar Battery Varieties
Four primary solar battery varieties exist: lithium-ion, lead-acid, flow, and nickel-cadmium. You’ll commonly come across lithium-ion batteries in the solar market, but flow and nickel-cadmium batteries are more attuned to industrial applications and aren’t ideal for household usage. Conversely, lead-acid batteries might be of a lesser quality but are more affordable. Let’s dive into an overview of these solar battery types.
Lithium-ion Batteries
For household solar setups, lithium-ion batteries are usually the go-to. These batteries dominate the residential solar sector because of their high energy density, enabling them to store a considerable amount of energy in a compact space. They boast a deeper discharge capacity, letting users extract more energy without harming the battery. Furthermore, their low-maintenance requirements make them a favorite for devices like computers, mobile phones, and vehicles. However, a drawback is their high cost and their propensity to overheat at elevated voltages. Improper installation can even lead to potential fire hazards.
Lead-acid Batteries
Having been in the market for decades, lead-acid batteries remain a preferred choice for many homeowners. These batteries might not match up to others in terms of energy density and efficiency, but they are long-lasting (with adequate care) and leverage a tried-and-tested technology. Moreover, they’re relatively budget-friendly.
Flow Batteries
Flow batteries, categorized under solar batteries, aren’t common in residential settings. These are massive batteries, with around 2.2 MWh capacity, predominantly utilized for large-scale energy storage on the grid. Their enormous size makes them notably pricey and better aligned with industrial purposes rather than home energy solutions.
Nickel-cadmium Batteries
Nickel-cadmium batteries, resilient and efficient even under harsh conditions, are the top pick for significant commercial and industrial solar. They possess an impressive energy density, delivering double the energy when compared to lead-acid batteries. However, it’s essential to note that cadmium is a hazardous substance and is restricted in several regions globally. Additionally, these batteries come with a hefty price tag and aren’t recommended for home use.
Solar Battery Expenses
Considering a solar battery might significantly elevate your solar project’s estimated cost. In numerous situations, the battery’s price could rival that of the solar panels themselves. As per the US Department of Energy, the cost range for solar batteries is between $12,000 and $22,000. Nonetheless, there are smaller batteries (under 8kWh) available for under $10,000, excluding installation costs. Bigger residences might lead to higher solar expenses. Generally, the expected expenditure for energy storage is around $1,000 to $2,000 per kWh. Installation charges for solar batteries usually start from $3,000.
Additional Batteries Reviewed
Bluetti EP900 Home Battery Backup: The Bluetti EP900 Home Battery Backup offers both power and flexibility. Its EP900 inverter boasts significant power output regardless of capacity. Bluetti’s warranty capacity commitment surpasses many competitors, but it isn’t the pinnacle of efficiency.
SunPower SunVault: Recognized for its robust warranty, the SunPower SunVault is supported by a reputed solar company known for having the market’s most efficient solar panels. For those eyeing SunPower for installation, the SunVault stands out as a dependable battery choice. The SunVault’s prime attractions are its extensive capacity variants and an unmatched cycle warranty. Available in single (13 or 19.5kWh) or double units (26 or 39kWh), the SunVault’s downsides include its efficiency, modularity, and a price tag higher than some competitors.
Franklin Home Power: With average ratings across most sectors, the Franklin Home Power battery’s highlights are its 12-year warranty and the capability to connect up to 15 batteries in one setup. This battery fits those intending to scale up their capacity. Nevertheless, it carries a price heftier than its counterparts and, being a newer system, lacks widespread availability and substantial customer feedback.
LG ESS Home 8: The Home 8, although not a wrong choice, gets overshadowed by the LG Resu 16H Prime, which boasts better efficiency, capacity, and performance at a more affordable rate. But, the LG ESS Home 8 offers more modularity, allowing up to four Home 8 stacks, as opposed to the two-stack limit of the 16H Primes.
SonnenCore Plus: SonnenCore Plus somewhat lags in most areas, except for its warranty and cost. A 10-year or 10,000-cycle warranty stands out when compared to other battery warranties, especially considering the cycle count.
Emporia Alpha-ESS DC Coupled: Those in search of a smaller battery with commendable customer support might find the Emporia Alpha fitting. This battery also offers decent modularity. However, it lags behind rivals due to subpar performance metrics.
Generac Pwrcell: For those prioritizing modularity, Generac Pwrcell is a strong contender. It features a battery cabinet with individual modules that can gradually enhance capacity. Moreover, it’s reasonably priced.
Delta BX 12.6: The only appealing aspects of Delta’s BX 12.6 battery are its respectable round-trip efficiency (96%) and depth of discharge (98%). Its shortcomings include lack of modularity, an average warranty, and lackluster power output metrics.
Let 8MSolar Help You Find the Right Battery
Our choice for the premier solar battery is the Tesla Powerwall. The Powerwall secured consistent marks across most categories, establishing it as one of the most balanced solar batteries we’ve evaluated. This positions it as a potential fit for a wider range of homes. Notably, it’s one of the mere two batteries we’ve encountered that offer an unlimited-cycle warranty. However, it’s crucial to underscore that no battery fits all scenarios. Even if the Tesla Powerwall lacks major shortcomings, barring Tesla’s known customer service issues, each battery has its distinct features. A different battery could align more aptly with your residence and unique energy demands.
If you are looking for a solar installer in North Carolina, give 8MSolar a call. We will work with you to provide the best solar system options possible. And what solar system is complete without a stellar solar battery. Find out what best fits your needs today!
