LG Solar Battery Professional Review

In 2018, LG made a bold move into the home energy storage market, leveraging its six-decade legacy in electronics to introduce some of the most advanced batteries available today. The centerpiece of this expansion is the LG Residential Energy Storage Unit (RESU), a line of batteries that has become one of the most popular choices in the market for homeowners seeking reliable, efficient storage solutions for their solar energy systems.

It’s also important to note that LG has recently exited the solar panel market, choosing instead to focus on Energy Storage Systems (ESS), energy management solutions, and other sustainable technologies. This strategic shift led to the formation of LG Energy Solution, a rebranded division responsible for managing and advancing the company’s battery portfolio.

Key Features of the LG RESU Batteries

LG Energy Solution offers lithium-ion batteries with varying storage capacities to meet the needs of homeowners:

• Storage Capacities: The RESU batteries range from 9.8 kWh to 16 kWh, providing flexible options depending on household energy demands.
• Pricing: The cost of the RESU models varies, with prices starting around $9,000 and rising up to $16,000, including installation fees.
• Battery Management System (BMS): Each RESU battery is equipped with LG’s proprietary BMS, which ensures efficient energy use and battery longevity.
• Power Conditioning System (PCS): The PCS helps convert stored energy into power and ensures that energy flows efficiently between the battery and other devices.
• Warranty: LG RESU batteries come with a 10-year warranty, guaranteeing 60% to 70% of the battery’s original capacity after 22.4 MWh of total usage, depending on the specific model.

Benefits of the LG RESU Battery Series

1. Durable and High-Quality Construction: Built by one of the most reputable names in the electronics industry, the LG RESU batteries are known for their construction and high-quality standards.
2. Efficient Energy Storage: The RESU batteries are efficient, ensuring minimal energy loss and maximizing the use of stored solar power.
3. Flexible Setup Options: These batteries can be used in many different configurations, making them versatile for varying home energy setups.
4. Longevity and Performance: Thanks to the Battery Management System and the high-quality materials used, these batteries are designed to last and provide reliable service over the long term.

Drawbacks of the LG RESU Battery Series

1. High Initial Cost: While the RESU batteries are premium products, they come at a higher initial investment compared to other residential energy storage options.
2. Capacity Limitations: Although the batteries offer a substantial range of storage, there may be cases where larger capacity or multi-unit installations are required for high-energy-demand households.

How the LG RESU Batteries Work with Solar Power

Modern energy storage systems like the LG RESU are suited for use with renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, which are intermittent by nature. These batteries capture exess solar energy generated during the day, storing it for use when the sun isn’t shining or when electricity demand is high, like during nighttime or peak pricing periods.

1. Energy Storage: The RESU batteries store the collected solar energy as direct current (DC). This process allows homeowners to store excess power for later use, making the most out of their solar panel systems.
2. Energy Use: When needed, the stored energy is sent to an inverter, which converts the DC power into alternating current (AC) — the form of electricity used to power household appliances.

This function is important for homes looking to become energy-independent, as the RESU series can provide a backup power supply during power outages or even allow homeowners to completely off-grid their energy usage by utilizing solar energy storage.

LG’s RESU battery series is a cutting-edge solution for homeowners looking to store solar energy efficiently. While the initial cost may be higher than other storage options, the high quality and long-term reliability make these batteries a good investment for those seeking energy independence or better management of their renewable energy systems. With flexible capacities and an impressive warranty, the RESU series represents a great choice for homeowners aiming to optimize their energy use while contributing to a sustainable future.

Battery Types in RESU Series:

Among various battery types, lithium-ion and lead-acid are prevalent. The RESU series employs lithium-ion batteries featuring nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells. These batteries are safer, more efficient, and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. They also boast higher energy density, enabling more energy storage in a compact space.

RESU Models:

MODEL	LG RESU10H-R	LG RESU10H-C	LG RESU 10H PRIME	LG RESU 16H PRIME
Total energy capacity (kWh)	9.8 kWh	9.8 kWh	9.6 kWh	16 kWh
Power rating (continuous)	5.0 kW	5.0 kW	5.0 kW	7.0 kW
Power rating (peak)	7.0 kW	7.0 kW	7.0 kW	11.0 kW
Voltage range (V)	350-450 V	350-450 V	350-450 V	350-450 V
Dimensions (W x H x D, inches)	29.3 x 35.7 x 8.1	29.3 x 35.7 x 8.1	19.8 x 32.2 x 11.6	19.8 x 42.8 x 11.6
Approximate weight (lbs)	214 lbs	220 lbs	244 lbs	350 lbs
Warranty	60% capacity after 10 years	60% capacity after 10 years	70% capacity after 10 years	70% capacity after 10 years

Until 2021, the primary offering was the LG Chem RESU 10H, with a storage capacity of 9.8 kWh. LG then introduced its third-generation RESU Prime series, featuring two new models: the 10H Prime with a 9.6 kWh capacity and the 16H Prime, offering a generous 16 kWh of storage. 

These models are compatible with major solar inverter brands such as SMA and SolarEdge and have been optimized for scalability, allowing multiple units to be connected to increase energy storage.

Warranty and Cost:

LG offers a ten-year warranty for all RESU models, providing peace of mind to homeowners investing in its energy storage solutions. The warranty terms slightly differ between older and newer models, reflecting the advancements in battery technology.

• 10H Models: These come with a 60% capacity guarantee after ten years of use.
• Prime Models: The newer Prime models promise an impressive 70% capacity retention after the same period, providing enhanced longevity and better performance.

Pricing Structure

The cost of the LG RESU battery systems varies depending on the model and storage capacity:

• 10H Models: These typically range from $7,000 to $9,000, including installation costs.
• 16H Model: For the larger 16H version, the price can reach up to $13,000.

While the LG RESU batteries are not the cheapest on the market, their reputation for reliability and high-quality construction makes them a popular choice for consumers who are willing to invest in a durable, long-lasting energy storage solution. For many homeowners, the cost is justified by the peace of mind that comes with owning a product from a trusted brand like LG.

How RESU Stacks Up Against Competitors:

	LG RESU	TESLA POWERWALL II	GENERAC PWRCELL
Capacity	9.6 – 16 kWh	13.5 kWh	9 – 18 kWh
Price	$7000 – $13000	$12,750	$9,999 and above
Warranty	10 years	10 years	10 years
Battery Chemistry	Li-ion (NMC)	Li-ion (NMC)	Li-ion (NMC)
Depth of Discharge (DoD)	95%	100%	84%
Scalability	Yes	Yes	Yes

Is LG Solar Battery Right For You?

While LG RESU batteries can help reduce electricity bills by storing surplus solar energy for later use, their main function is to provide reliable backup power during power outages. For homeowners who value uninterrupted energy during unexpected blackouts, these batteries offer a secure and dependable solution.

Given LG’s long-standing reputation for reliability, investing in an LG RESU system offers peace of mind, knowing you’re choosing a product backed by a trusted brand with years of experience. The compact design and user-friendly features of the RESU series make it an ideal option for those seeking a balance of quality and long-term support.

While the initial investment may not be the lowest on the market, for many, the benefits of durability and performance over time outweigh the upfront cost, making it a smart choice for those looking for a reliable energy storage system.

If you are looking to build out your residential or commercial solar system, reach out to the best solar energy companies in North Carolina. Contact 8MSolar’s team of professionals today to help solve your energy needs.