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SOLAR PANEL/ PHOTO-VOLTAIC (PV) MODULE
A major component in the assembly of a solar system is the panels. This is how the energy is captured or harnessed in readiness for conversion into a form that can be consumed. A solar panel, or photo-voltaic (PV) module, is an assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in a framework for installation. Solar panels use sunlight as a source of energy to generate direct current electricity. A collection of PV modules is called a PV panel, and a system of PV panels is called an array. Arrays of a photovoltaic system supply solar electricity to electrical equipment.

Solar panels are made up of crystalline cells. A solar panel contains up to 40 solar cells. There are three main types of solar panel cells. These include:
• Polycrystalline Solar Panels
• Monocrystalline Solar Panels
• Thin Film Solar Panels

It’s important to understand the difference, because your choice will determine cost and amount of roof space your solar installation requires. You’ve probably noticed that they don’t all look exactly alike. Solar panels don’t all perform the same way. Each of them have different capabilities, energy-efficiency levels, and total installation costs.
The best solar panel option for your home will depend on your budget and the cost to install solar energy, roof space, access to sunlight, and your desired energy-efficiency.
Now, each type of panel has some pros and cons. Let’s look at and see what you need to know…

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
• Despite being the oldest type of solar panel, a monocrystalline panel is the most developed. Monocrystalline panels are created from a single continuous crystal structure. They contain monocrystalline cells that are made out of pure silicon. Monocrystalline cells appear black due to the interaction between sunlight and pure silicon. (Dark black color) However, buyers can choose from a variety of colors when it comes to back sheets and frames.

Pros:
• Most developed of the three technologies, Monocrystalline cells are placed in a pyramid pattern, which results in an increased surface area for better absorption of solar energy.
• These cells have higher efficiency (between 17% and 20%) than the other kinds of solar cells because they are made of more pure silicon. You will notice a uniformity to their coloring
• Occupy the least space for the same amount of power than other technologies
• Performs better in low levels of sunlight – ideal for cloudy areas
• Higher heat resistance / tolerance than Polycrystalline
• They are very susceptible to shading effects and quickly lose output with even small amounts of shading
• The longevity of monocrystalline cells is up greater than the rest.

Cons:
• The only challenge associated with monocrystalline panels in their cost. Being the most efficient, these panels are more expensive.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
These panels are the most popular among the three types of solar panels. The surface of polycrystalline panels looks like a mosaic and are square. The surface has a bluish tone as the panels are made up of several crystals of silicon. These cells can be recognized within a solar panel for their rectangular shape, created when silicon is melted and poured into a mold. The polycrystalline silicon panels have a distinctive and grainy look. But because of the impurities, it is less efficient compared to monocrystalline. Polycrystalline are a newer technology and vary in the manufacturing process.

Pros:
• These cells have an efficiency between 13% and 17%.
• Simple and inexpensive production of polycrystalline panels makes them less costly.
• Produces more power in hotter weather. (preferable in hot/sunny areas)
• Polycrystalline panels are more eco-friendly than monocrystalline panels.
• These panels cost less as they have a simple manufacturing process, there’s less consumption of silicon during the making of polycrystalline panels.

Cons:
• These panels are less efficient in low light conditions
• Occupy marginally more space than Monocrystalline for the same power output.
• Polycrystalline cells are not as heat tolerant or efficient as monocrystalline cells.
• Specifically, they do not generate as much electricity from the sun. This can affect factors like the amount of electricity you can harvest from solar energy

3. Thin-Film Panels
Thin-film panels belong to the second generation of solar cells. Thin film panels are a totally different technology to Mono and Poly crystalline panels. They are a new technology compared to Mono and Polycrystalline cells. They are made by depositing a photovoltaic substance onto a solid surface like glass. The photovoltaic substance / material that is used varies and multiple combinations of substances have successfully and commercially been used. As the name suggests, thin-film panels are much thinner than those that use silicon wafers and can be identified as having a solid black appearance. They may or may not have a frame, if the panel has no frame it is a thin film panel.

Pros:
• Thin film solar panel is much cheaper than the other two types of panels. Customers can save on installation costs as well due to its lightweight construction.
• Less affected by shading than Mono or Polycrystalline (Thin-film has the best shade tolerance.)
• More efficient in low light conditions
• It performs better under hotter temperatures compared to other types.
• Thin-film panels are more flexible than crystalline solar cells and can be made from various materials and not just silicon. So for those who don’t like the appearance of solar panels on a roof, thin film is a good alternative.

Cons:
• Thin film solar panels have the lowest conversion efficiency efficient than crystalline solar panels. (They offer an efficiency between 7% – 13 %.)
• Thin film solar panels requires more space than Mono or Polycrystalline.
• They also tend to degrade more quickly

In conclusion……..
With the passing years, solar technology has made its advancements. All types of solar panels have their benefits. After our overview of the different types, we have concluded the following:
• If you have the money for long-term investment, choose monocrystalline solar panels – these will last for years to come, and you’ll get efficiency in space and electricity production.
• If you’re looking for a less pricey option and efficiency, go for polycrystalline solar panels – these won’t give you the space advantage, but they are as good as monocrystalline.
• If you don’t mind getting your solar panels changed every two years or so, and you want a cheaper opportunity, you should go with thin-film solar panels – based on your requirements you can choose from different types after consulting an expert.

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Solar Panel/ Photo-voltaic (PV) module - scarlett reign energy A solar panel, or photo-voltaic (PV) module, is an assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in a framework for installation. TheyA major component in the assembly of a solar system is the panels. This is how the energy is captured or harnessed in readiness for conversion into a form that can be consu...

COMPONENTS OF SOLAR PV SYTEMS
What are the components of Solar PV Systems?

Solar photovoltaic systems generally consist of six individual components: the solar PV array, a charge controller, a battery bank, an inverter, a utility meter, and an electric grid. The correct installation of all of these components determines how efficient the solar panels are.

However, a charge controller and battery bank are optional. Even though these two components help you store and, as such, make better use of your generated electricity, they could also increase the total price of the photovoltaic installation.

Component 1: Solar Photovoltaic Array

A solar photovoltaic array consists of a number of solar PV panels that are electrically connected. The solar PV array generates DC electricity from sunlight. PV systems offer many different designs and a wide variety of electrical needs, regardless of how large or small the installation surface is.

Component 2: Charge Controller

Regulates the DC from the solar panels to make sure that the batteries don’t overcharge. It can measure whether the batteries are fully charged, and can stop the current from flowing in order to prevent the batteries from damage.

Component 3: Battery Bank

It makes sure that none of your unused energy goes to waste, as it stores the energy that is produced by the PV array and not consumed immediately. It can then, supply your home with electricity during the night or during very cloudy weather when there is insufficient sunlight. Including a battery bank in your photovoltaic systems is optional, but can double the amount of solar energy you can use.

Component 4: Inverter

A solar power inverter is a key part of any solar photovoltaic system, as it converts electricity from DC to AC. This is necessary, since you need AC power for the energy supply of your home appliances.

Component 5: Utility Meter

Regardless of your solar PV system, your household has a power meter that measures the electricity consumption. The utility meter is connected to the PV system and measures how much electricity you are using in your home.

Component 6: Electric Grid

If your home is connected to an electric grid means that during periods when the PV system doesn’t cover your energy needs, you will be able to supply your home with power from the electric grid, if necessary.

In conclusion, since solar photovoltaic system costs can vary depending on many different factors, there is not a single price but rather a wide range of options and costs. The installation cost for solar panels mostly depends on the size, inclination, and condition of your roof, and the amount of electricity required for your home.

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Tags: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/june-isige-34b6395b_renewableenergy-energystorage-activity-6788807957330051072-ikSb, SELECTING THE RIGHT SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM

SELECTING THE RIGHT SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM Let us look at solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Selecting The Right Solar Voltaic Systems from an investment standpoint is key.

Exploring Energy Sources A renewable energy source means energy that is sustainable, something that can't run out, or is endless, like the sun. With this in mind, we can then have the flexibility of open ended exploration of harnessing this energy.

Tips for Purchasing High Quality Solar Lights

linkedin.com In recent years, all outdoor electric products that use solar energy are becoming very popular. The Solar lights combine solar energy to becomes solar powered lights.

Choosing a solar flood light

linkedin.com Lights come in different shapes and sizes and they are used for different lighting needs. One such light is the floodlight and contrary to what people think, the wrong choice of this light can in the long run be expensive and become cumbersome to the owner.

Residential Complete Grid-Interactive Hybrid Solar System with Battery back-up

Complete Hybrid Solar System

linkedin.com A grid-interactive Hybrid solar system intelligently gives you the best of both worlds. With the convenience of a grid connected system and there is added security of a battery backup as well.

Solar Street Lights: A Solution for Rural Areas

linkedin.com Nobody can argue the immense benefits of solar energy in the world. Yet, most of the people living in the rural areas are deprived of electricity.

Energy Audit and Load Analysis

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linkedin.com Saving energy is important and usually this can be achieved by producing cheaper renewable energy. Solar installation should, therefore, not be done without analyzing the energy situation beforehand (energy audit) and implementing energy saving measures.

Let's finish off the water heating discussion. These are the most common systems in the market.
Direct Systems (open loop): Water is passed through the solar circuit. The water circulates from the domestic storage geyser directly through the thermal panels. Direct solar systems have been fitted in various formats, often connecting to the existing hot water geyser.
Advantages:
-Lower installation cost but, has a lower system life expectancy.
-Slightly better system performance over an indirect system.
Disadvantages:
-Greater accumulation of lime-scale, silt and other debris in the solar circuit, hence loss of system circulation, heat transfer, blockage of safety vales of bacteria build-up.
-Loss of performance and quantity of hot water due to the presence of scale reducing the thermal exchange between the solar panel and its water content.
-Potential freezing of fluids in the solar circuit and other parts of the primary circuit, risking damage.
-Reduced life expectancy of the solar panels due to blockage within the solar panel pipe system.
-Manufactures of direct systems hardly provide warranty.
-Direct water circulated panels have a higher maintenance requirement.
In conclusion, always research.

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On the last post we looked at what water heating generally means. Today Let us delve deeper into understanding water heating systems. We are focusing on the Thermosiphon Geyser Solar Water Heating Systems. The system is either Indirect or Direct.

Indirect Systems (closed loop – heat pump) – This is what we offer

Also known as a split system, within an indirect solar heating system the domestic hot water is not passed through the solar circuit or the solar panels. A heat exchanger separates the domestic consumed hot water from the solar circuit. The solar circuit is filled with Glycol, Glycol acts as an anti-corrosion inhibitor and antifreeze.

Indirect solar systems require a special solar cylinder with an internal heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is a coil located within the water of a storage cylinder. Solar cylinders are manufactured with this required heat exchanger within the unit. Therefore, when installing an indirect thermal heating system, the installation will require a thermal indirect geyser to be installed.

Advantages of an Indirect Solar System

No risks of scale damaging within the solar panels or the solar circuit. The Glycol within the solar circuit will protect the system form corrosion.
System performance will not be reduced as a direct result of scale.
No risk of freezing of fluids, even on a very cold day the system can still operate without risk to equipment.
Bacteria will not build up in the panels and have direct contact with the domestic water.
Panels carry a better panel warranty since they are not at risk of corrosion of scale.

Disadvantages of Indirect Systems

Higher installation cost but, has a greater system life expectancy.

For this type of system, even the disadvantage is still an advantage!!

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Solar Water Heating Systems Costs Hot Water Round the Clock

SOLAR WATER HEATING (THERMAL)
Thermosiphon Geyser Solar Water Systems are Off Grid and a very cost effective way of producing hot water. A typical system will involve a standard solar panel, hot water cylinder also known as a geyser and connection pipes. The technology is called passive solar design unlike active solar heating systems; it doesn’t involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices such as pumps or controllers to operate the system.
Convective movement of the liquid starts when liquid in the solar panel is heated, causing the liquid to expand and become less dense, and thus more buoyant than the cooler liquid in the bottom of the solar panel. Convection moves heated liquid upwards in the system as it is simultaneously replaced by cooler liquid returning by gravity. Ideally, the liquid flows easily because a good thermosiphon system should have very little hydraulic resistance to obstruct or slow natural circulation. The piping from the solar panel must rise from the panel to the cylinder which must all be above the solar panel. Hot liquid from the solar panel rises into the flow connection pipe, gravitates in to the cylinder and flows back through the return at a much lower temperature. This process continues naturally until the temperature of the water reaches an equilibrium with solar radiation input.
Sizes of Systems
Domestic Thermosiphon solar systems usually range from 80-litre up to 300-litres of hot water storage depending on the user’s hot water requirements. A typical 2m2 flat plate solar panel will be sufficient to support a 160-litre cylinder, 4m2 of solar panels for a 300-litre cylinder.

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Scarlett Reign Consultancy - Renewable Energy Consultancy in Kenya

EFFECT OF COVID - 19 ON RENEWABLE ENERGY

The spread of COVID-19 has caused mass production shutdowns and issues along the supply chain across multiple industry sectors, wider disruptions are now being experienced as countries take steps to contain or delay the spread of the virus.

The impact on the power and renewables sector is likely to be considerable, particularly as the virus spreads globally. For projects under construction, delays in the delivery of key components – which are either in transit or simply not being produced as manufacturing plants are closed – will hamper construction programmes and could increase construction costs as parties look to source parts elsewhere. Renewables projects are particularly vulnerable.

For projects which are commissioned may be forced to shut down or reduce capacity where their workforce is subject to quarantine measures and cannot get to site. At the same time, they may also be facing significant reductions in demand in affected areas as the energy requirements of major users (e.g. manufacturing plants) reduce, leading to cash flow issues.

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The corona virus has brought commerce to a halt. Some economists estimate GDP could drop 50% across the continents by the end of 2020. In the past month millions have faced unemployment. The economy is in free fall. People can’t pay their bills and nobody is buying anything except the essentials of life — food and toilet paper.
The oil industry is in tumult. Demand for oil has plummeted just as Russia and Saudi Arabia have chosen to open their spigots and flood the world with oil. Some oil producers are facing bankruptcy.
It’s fair to say we are at an inflection point. The question now is, how to restart the economy and put all those people back to work? Here is a modest proposal.............Electrify Everything.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. The heads of all the world’s major oil companies are trying to see how much money they can pry out of taxpayers before their businesses implode.
Wouldn’t this be an excellent time to push the transition to renewable energy and electric transportation or roll out a modest carbon tax, one that puts money back in people’s pockets? And how about retraining programs for those who are out of work so they can find employment in the jobs of the future rather than the occupations of the past?
Perhaps now would be a good time to boost incentives for electric vehicles so that when autoworkers go back to work, they are building the clean, efficient cars and trucks the world will need, not the same old devices that have been spewing particulates and poisons into the atmosphere for the past 100 years.

In other words, why not use the devastation created by the corona virus as a springboard to implement the deals around promoting renewable energy. Maybe they should take that authority to build their own post-corona virus societies. Now would be a good time to construct local policies that benefit local people. If the people will lead, their leaders will follow — eventually.

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POSITIVE CLEAN ENERGY
Today I dedicate my post to staying alive, safe and healthy. With the onset of the corona virus, it has definitely affected everything. The thing I love about nature is that it always finds a way of healing itself despite all the strain on it. As I observe the atmosphere cleanse itself, it challenges me more about how I can improve my surroundings and health using Renewable Energy.

Instead of focusing the negative effects of the virus, I choose to look at the positives. The most important being less pollution and less strain on the flora and fauna. In the same light, I look at the many advantages that come with renewable energy such as it never runs out, maintenance requirements being lower, money saver, numerous health and environmental benefits, lower reliance on foreign energy sources to name but a few.

Transitioning into something new is always coupled with uncertainty, but it is always better to try, than never knowing because of not trying.



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INVERTERS - scarlettreignconsultancy

SOLAR INVERTERS

If you're exploring the idea of going solar, no doubt you've heard that solar inverters are essential components for most solar electric systems. Buy why is that? Why are solar inverters so important? And what does a solar inverter do anyway? Are all inverters the same? This focus is to layout some of the basics involved with the different types of inverters and try to answer some of these questions along the way.

What is an inverter?

There are two forms of electricity commonly used today. Solar panels produce the form known as direct current (or DC) electricity. DC is also the form of electricity most batteries store. On the other hand most homes and businesses use alternating current (AC). AC faces less voltage drop over long distances, making it a convenient form to move from power plants to end users.
An inverter's main function is to invert DC electricity into AC electricity. Inverters span a range of sizes, from small ones that allow you to run your laptop off your car's cigarette lighter, to larger and more robust inverters designed to work with home or industrial solar electric systems. But there really isn't a generic solar inverter. Why? Because there are different types of solar electric systems, which require different types of solar inverters, namely;

Grid-direct inverter.
Stand-alone, off-grid inverter.
Grid-Tied with Battery Back-up.

An inverter is required since solar panels produce electricity in DC format, and AC format is needed for energy use.

NB: Over time, all inverters will fail. This is because of the precision components that make up the device. High-quality inverters last decades without needing to be replaced.

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scarlettreignconsultancy.com SOLAR INVERTERS If you’re exploring the idea of going solar, no doubt you’ve heard that solar inverters are essential components for most solar electric systems. Buy why is that? Why are solar inverters so important? And what does a solar inverter do anyway? Are all inverters the same? This focu...

Facts about renewable energy
How much do we really know about renewable energy? What do we understand about the sources of clean energy, their costs and benefits? Do you wonder why we aren’t taking more advantage of the renewable resources our planet offers especially in Africa? As a continent we have the best conditions for harnessing this energy. To a large extent, there is a lack of awareness. Let’s take the blinders off and see what everyone should know about renewable energy and see what it can do for us.
• Renewable energy is a form of clean energy that is provided by natural sources present in nature.
• The main forms of renewable energy are: solar, wind, hydro, biofuel and geothermal. These sources are all continually replenished!
• . Renewable energy is a much cheaper alternative in some countries.
• Renewable energy creates three times more jobs than fossil fuels. According to studies, job creation in clean energy outdoes fossil fuels by a margin of 3-to-1
• Investments in renewable energy are cost effective.
• One wind turbine can produce enough electricity to power up to 300 homes.
• According to research, if sunlight could be properly harnessed, there’s enough that falls on the earth in just one hour to meet the world energy demands for a whole year!
• Unlike fossil fuels, renewable sources of energy like hydropower, wind and solar do not directly emit greenhouse gases. Science shows that These greenhouse gasses are the culprits behind global warming.
• Surveys show the world’s resource base for geothermal energy is larger than the resource base for coal, oil, gas and uranium combined.
• Biomass is currently the largest U.S. renewable energy source with more than 200 existing plants providing electricity for 1.5 million American homes.

People are waking up to the fact that our large dependency on fossil fuels is causing huge problems, and not just because fossil fuels are depleting worldwide, but primarily because the health of our planet is deteriorating as well as the effects to our health.
Is renewable energy the game changer to a world so dependent on fossil fuels? We think so. Many others also believe that the full-fledged switch to renewable energy is coming and it’s only a matter of time before the global energy market is dominated by renewable energy choices. We’re hopeful! Our planet’s future and well-being depends on it!
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SELECTING THE RIGHT SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - scarlettreignconsultancy

scarlettreignconsultancy.com There is not a “one size fits all” solar photovoltaic (PV) system. In fact, solar PV arrays can vary considerably both in their general design, size and application. That is why it’s important for consumers to clearly understand what they’re looking for when shopping for a solar array. The t...

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Happy New Year. 2020 is full of fresh possibilities and learning more on Renewable Energy. As we review all that we have seen evolve in the past year in regards to renewables, similarly couldn’t help but wonder about the history of renewable energy: Where It All Began.

What we often don’t appreciate is the long, much-trodden path that led us to where we are now. Above all, did you know that a brute form renewable energy created the premise for today’s technological feats? It all started with ‘waterwheels’, which mimic the workings behind hydropower. This is said to have been around 200BC. This was followed by windmills in 1590s.

However,things get interesting in 1860 when world’s first solar energy system was invented by French investor Augustin Mouchot. In 1876 in London, William Grylls Adams, Professor of Natural Philosophy at King’s College demonstrated how you can use selenium cells to harness rays from the sun and generate electricity. Wind turbines were built around 1887 and had started to generate interest in and around Europe. Just a year later, in 1888, Charles F. Brush invented the first windmill used to generate electricity. By 1908, there were 72 wind turbines generating electricity in Denmark.

Technology accelerated throughout the 20th century, alongside the increasing need to generate clean, renewable energy. Albert Einstein perfected the ‘photoelectric effect’, which examines just how light-cells carry potent forms of energy that can be harnessed to power buildings across the civilised world in 1905. 1927 saw the first sale of commercial wind turbines. In 1935, Hoover Dam becomes the largest hydroelectric facility in the US. Solar then makes its debut in space, in 1958 which saw the first US satellite use solar energy as its power source.The rest they say is history.

In conclusion, these were the basis of what we see today and each form of renewable energy and like humans has a point of origin, DNA so to speak. We’ve come a long way, and continue to innovate in every facet of modern life. But without the keen experimentation of years gone by, who knows where we would be. I thought you should know!!!!



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Deep Cycle Batteries 101
Solar batteries are really deep cycle batteries that provide energy storage for solar, wind and other renewable energy systems. Unlike the normal car battery, a deep cycle battery is capable of surviving prolonged, repeated recharging and deep discharges. Solar batteries are the primary storage source.They also work as an emergency backup power source for renewable energy systems that are off grid or in case of electrical grid failure.

Today's batteries are better than ever. So are the devices that regulate and protect them. But you still need to do your homework to make sure you get the best solar battery storage solution for your needs.

The main kinds of deep cycle batteries are:

1) Flooded Lead Acid Batteries
Lead acid batteries represent a tried and true technology that has been around for years. Flooded Lead Acid batteries have the longest track record in solar electric systems. They usually have the lowest lowest upfront or cost cost per amp-hour of any of the other choices . The downside is that they do require regular maintenance. Every month you’ll need to check the water level, adding distilled water to keep them topped off, equalizing charges and keeping the terminals clean. These batteries expel built-up hydrogen gas, hence they need to be installed in a vented enclosure.

These come in the serviceable type and are often referred to as “wet” cells. The serviceable wet cells come with removable caps, and are the smarter choice, as they allow you to check their status with a hydrometer.

Key Features:

Lowest upfront cost $
Typical lifespan: 5-7 years
Requires maintenance

2) Sealed Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)
Sealed lead acid batteries are a variation of lead acid that eliminates the maintenance. But these usually have a slightly shorter lifespan and come at a higher price. There are a few types of sealed lead acid batteries - gel and absorbent glass mat (AGM.) Generally both types are applicable in off-grid solar and have similar benefits, though there are some differences in battery construction.

The AGM batteries are typically twice the cost of their flooded-cell counterpart. Due to their power density these cells can hold roughly 1.5 times the amp hour capacity of a similar size flooded battery. Their low internal resistance allows charging and discharging much faster than other types. AGM cells function well in colder temperatures and are highly resistant to vibration.

They are available in the maintenance-free type (which means they are designed to die as soon as the warranty runs out)

Key Features:

More expensive $ $
Typical lifespan: 3-5 years
Maintenance-free

3) Lithium-Ion
Lithium batteries are the most efficient. They waste significantly less power in the charge/discharge process. Lithium batteries can also be cycled deeper thus using more of their capacity. Lithium batteries come in different types. The Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LiFePO4, commonly called “LFP”) off-grid batteries are advisable. The long lifespan and high charge/discharge rates make LFP batteries the ideal solution for off-grid systems.

Lithium-Ion batteries have made an entrance in the renewables field, such as with the home backup power systems.

Compared to all lead-acid acid batteries, lithium ion:

Is physically smaller and lighter for a given capacity.
Shows better performance characteristics, including a greater depth of discharge and less self-discharge.
If properly sized and managed, can survive more charge cycles (i.e., can have a greater lifespan).
Requires less user maintenance
So what are the downsides?

Compared to sealed lead-acid batteries, li-ion is more expensive upfront (i.e. at initial purchase), but end up being comparable over its lifetime because of its greater longevity. The specifics, however, depend on environmental conditions such as ambient temperatures.
Key Features:

Highest upfront cost $ $ $ $
Typical lifespan: 10+ years
Maintenance-free

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