Are you excited about the prospect of generating your own electricity with a modern solar power system? Do you have a b aversion to the outdated, fossil fuel-dependent power companies? Have you ever thought, "Wouldn't it be fantastic if I could generate electricity from solar panels during the day and store it in batteries for use at night?" If so, you're not alone—this idea is both logical and practical. However, due to current energy storage technology and costs, going completely off-grid might not be the most economical solution for everyone just yet.
The Current State of Hybrid Solar Power Systems
As of mid-2016, while completely off-grid solutions might seem attractive, they are often not the most cost-effective choice for the average household. That said, hybrid solar power systems offer a middle ground that provides both the benefits of solar energy and the reliability of being connected to the grid.
What is a Hybrid Solar Power System?
A hybrid solar power system is a setup that combines solar energy with battery storage and a connection to the mains power grid. This system allows you to store excess electricity generated by your solar panels in deep-cycle batteries, which can be used later when the sun isn't shining. While a hybrid system is more expensive than a standard grid-connected system, it’s less costly than going completely off-grid.
Benefits of a Hybrid Solar Power System
With a hybrid solar power system, you get the best of both worlds:
- Backup Power Supply During Blackouts:
- Grid-connected solar power systems in Australia are required to shut down when the network goes offline. This is a safety measure to protect line workers from live wires. A hybrid system can safely disconnect your home from the grid during a blackout and switch to battery power, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply.
- Bypassing Grid-Imposed Solar Power Limits:
- Some electricity companies impose limits on the size of solar systems that can be connected to the grid. A hybrid system can work around these restrictions by using a smart inverter that limits the amount of power exported to the grid while storing the excess in batteries.
- Avoiding Low Feed-In Tariff Rates:
- Feed-in tariffs in Australia are generally low, ranging from 6 to 12 cents per kWh. With a hybrid system, you can store your excess solar power instead of selling it to the grid at a low rate, thus avoiding the need to buy it back at a higher price when your batteries run out.
- Taking Advantage of Time-Based Power Rates:
- Some regions charge higher rates for electricity during peak hours. With a hybrid system, you can switch to battery power during these times, reducing your electricity costs. Additionally, you can charge your batteries with cheaper off-peak power and use them during peak times.
Retrofitting Deep Cycle Batteries to an Existing Grid-Connected System
Yes, it is possible to retrofit deep-cycle batteries to an existing solar power system. However, this might require upgrades to other components like the inverter, especially if your system is under 5kW. It's also advisable to oversize your solar panel array relative to your inverter to ensure sufficient power generation, even on cloudy days.
Hybrid Solar System Costs
Comparing the costs, a hybrid solar power system typically costs about double that of a standard grid-connected system. For instance, a decent 3kW grid system might cost around $5,000, but adding a 4kWh battery storage system could raise the price to $10,000. A larger 5kW system with 8kWh battery storage could cost approximately $18,000.
Types of Batteries and Their Lifespan
There are two main types of batteries used in hybrid solar power systems:
- Lead Acid Batteries:
- Sealed lead acid batteries are preferred for their low maintenance requirements. They typically last 1,000 to 3,000 cycles at 60% discharge, which equates to a service life of up to 8 years. Cooler operating temperatures extend their lifespan.
- Lithium-Ion and Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries:
- These batteries can last up to 6,000 cycles at 80% discharge, offering a service life of 13 to 18 years. While they are more expensive—about double the price of lead acid batteries—they offer superior performance and longevity. The Tesla Powerwall, for example, is a lithium-ion battery that offers 7kWh of daily discharge and is considered excellent value for its price.
Conclusion: Is a Hybrid Solar Power System Right for You?
Hybrid solar power systems offer a flexible and reliable solution for those who want to maximise their use of solar energy while still maintaining a connection to the grid. While the upfront costs are higher, the long-term benefits of energy independence, reduced electricity bills, and backup power during outages can make it a worthwhile investment.
For more information on hybrid solar power systems and the latest pricing, visit SolarQuotes.