Tag Archives: battery quality

lithium ion vs lead acid battery

Lead acid vs lithium-ion battery comparison

If you’re considering home energy storage, there are several types of batteries to choose from. In this article, we’ll compare two of the most common battery options paired with solar installations: lithium-ion and lead acid. Other than the different materials that compose each type of battery, their main difference comes in terms of cost and performance. Lead acid batteries tend to be less expensive whereas lithium-ion batteries perform better and are more efficient.

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Best solar batteries

Best solar batteries for energy storage

Solar batteries and storage systems are an integral part of any solar panel system. They work by storing the excess energy generated by solar panels so it can be used later while reducing overall energy costs. 

Storage systems are becoming increasingly attractive home upgrades for homeowners across the country. Whether you’re looking for self-consumption, rate arbitrage during peak hours, or back-up power in case of emergencies, storage systems can provide greater independence, resiliency, and savings–especially if you have solar panels and live in a state without net metering

Because storage systems have become so popular, many companies are now in the market, making it more challenging to compare and decide between the different brands and products available. In this article, we’ll explain some of the most important factors for comparing solar batteries and we’ll discuss some of the best brands and products available now.

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Battery Serviceability

What does serviceability mean for batteries?

If you’re considering purchasing a solar-plus-storage system, you’re probably contemplating the “what ifs”: what if my battery isn’t performing properly? What if my battery stops working altogether? The good news is that battery technology is highly reliable, which is why it’s sometimes difficult to find answers to these questions. In this article, we’ll cover some common questions you may have about solar batteries to help you make an informed decision about including storage with your solar system. 

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adding a solar battery

Should I install a solar battery now, or add it later?

Energy storage is the rising star of renewable energy. And with this popularity comes an increasingly common question: should I install a battery with my solar panel system now? Or, should I wait and add one later on? In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most important factors to consider when making that decision.

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blue planet blue ion HI battery review

The Blue Planet Energy Blue Ion HI complete review

Blue Planet Energy is a US-based battery manufacturer on a mission to eliminate the use of carbon-based fuels while powering the world with reliable, affordable, clean energy. Their Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) batteries boast safety and are backed by leading warranties, making them compelling products for anyone looking to install a battery system. Their newest product, the Blue Ion HI, is a powerful, safe, and sleek battery system built in the USA that pairs well with solar panel systems.

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Sunpower SunVault Review

The SunPower SunVault storage system complete review

SunPower has always been known for its top-tier solar panels – now, they’re expanding their influence in the energy storage space. In 2019, the company launched their first home solar battery: the Equinox Storage system. Now rebranded as the SunVault Storage system, this battery and software solution, when paired with a SunPower Equinox solar panel system, enables you to keep your lights on during power outages and manage your home’s electricity use.

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powerpod 2 review

The Electriq PowerPod 2 complete review

Electriq Power is a San Leandro, California-based energy storage company that designs and engineers its storage systems in the United States. Electriq’s original product, the PowerPod 1, includes a battery, hybrid battery/solar inverter, home energy management system, and an energy meter. Their newest product, the PowerPod 2, has a different chemistry and upgraded technical specifications that build on their already impressive storage system.

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lg resu prime review

The LG RESU Prime complete review

LG is one of the biggest names in energy storage. Their original battery, the RESU, is one of the most popular models in the industry. Now, their newest model–RESU Prime–is out; it’s a fully integrated energy storage system that includes an inverter and smart energy management software at a more compact size than the original. If you have solar on your property and install a home battery like the RESU Prime, you can store excess solar electricity to use later in the day or during power outages. As a result, properties with solar-plus-storage can increase their total monthly savings in certain markets.

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sonnen ecolinx review

The sonnen ecoLinx home battery complete review

Battery maker sonnen’s “luxury” battery offering – the ecoLinx – is more than just an energy storage device: the ecoLinx syncs your entire property’s energy usage together to efficiently and intelligently manage how you use energy in your home, all without disrupting your lifestyle. Especially when combined with a solar energy system, the sonnen ecoLinx is a powerful and smart home energy management system. (Note: check out our review of sonnen’s other primary product line–the eco–here.)

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