This information has been created to provide a basic overview of how solar works. It should be noted that there are different confgurations, batteries and inverters that could change depending on requirements.
The process of capturing solar energy, storing it in a battery, and using it involves several steps. Here's a breakdown of how solar energy is captured, stored, and used through a solar battery system:
1. Solar Energy Generation
Solar Panels Capture Sunlight: Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, typically mounted on the roof or ground, absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.
Inverter Conversion: The DC electricity generated by the solar panels is sent to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity, the type used by most household appliances.
Diagram of standard solar power process utilising a DC to AC inverter and storage battery.
2. Power Flow Management
Once the solar panels generate electricity, it is managed in different ways:
Direct Usage: The AC electricity can be used immediately by the home or building to power devices and appliances.
Excess Electricity: If more electricity is produced than used, the excess is either stored in a battery system for later use or sent back to the grid (if no storage system is present or full).
3. Battery Storage
Charging the Battery: When there's excess electricity, instead of sending it to the grid, the solar system directs it to charge the battery storage system. These batteries store the energy as DC electricity.
Battery Type: Most solar energy storage systems use lithium-ion batteries, although lead-acid, flow, and other types of batteries can be used.
4. Energy Usage from Battery Storage
Discharging the Battery: When solar energy is not available (e.g., at night or during cloudy periods), the stored energy in the battery is used. The battery discharges its stored DC electricity.
Inverter Use: Before being used by household appliances, this DC electricity from the battery passes through the inverter again, converting it to AC electricity.
Energy Supply to Appliances: The AC electricity from the battery then powers the home or building.
5. Backup Power (Optional)
During Power Outages: Many solar battery systems are designed to provide backup power during a grid outage. In this case, the battery system automatically switches to power critical loads like refrigerators, lights, and other essentials.
6. Grid Interaction (Optional)
Net Metering: If the battery is full and the solar panels continue to produce electricity, the excess can be sent back to the grid. In many areas, utility companies offer net metering, where you get credit for the electricity you send to the grid, offsetting your future electricity costs.
Grid Usage: If the battery is depleted and solar generation is low, the home or building will pull energy from the grid as a last resort.
Key Benefits of Solar and Battery Storage:
Energy Independence: Reduce reliance on the grid by storing your own solar energy.
Peak Shaving: Use stored energy during high-cost peak hours, reducing utility bills.
Backup Power: Maintain power during grid outages with stored energy.
Energy: Rely on clean, renewable solar energy, reducing carbon emissions.
This process ensures that solar energy is efficiently captured, stored, and used when needed, providing flexibility and energy savings.