What are the different types of storage batteries available to homes in the UK? Here we explore the major types, including their pros, cons and costs.
There are many compelling reasons to consider a battery storage system like a Tesla Powerwall for your home.
These systems allow you to maximise the use of the energy your solar panels produce, providing a seamless supply of power even when the sun isn’t shining.
For those without solar panels, battery storage systems can still offer significant benefits by enabling you to take advantage of time-of-use tariffs such as Octopus Go, which can reduce your electricity costs by storing energy when prices are low and using it when prices are high.
However, if you are in the research stage, you are probably wondering what distinguishes the different types of batteries available and ultimately, which one you should choose.
This guide aims to explore the most common types of storage batteries, their use cases, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
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Different Types of Battery Storage
The most notable difference between battery types lies in the chemicals they use.
In the context of domestic battery storage, the two most common types are lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries. However, there are other types available as well.
Here’s an overview of the most common types, along with their pros, cons, and potential costs in the UK:
Lithium-Ion Batteries (Latest Innovation)
Lithium-ion batteries are the gold standard when it comes to battery storage.
Lithium-ion batteries are regarded as offering a high energy density, long lifespan and high efficiency and for this reason, are the most popular type of battery used in domestic storage systems, which includes the likes of the Tesla Powerwall.
We have a full review of the Tesla Powerwall 3, which you can watch below:
Lithium-ion batteries are more compact, lightweight alternatives with higher performance ratings, faster charging speeds and a higher storage capacity per square centimetre.
Yes, that means they’re more expensive but they often come with much longer warranty periods compared to lead-acid batteries meaning, although the initial outlay is higher, you’re getting more bang for your buck.
Now looking at lithium-ion solar batteries, the average 4kWh product would cost about £4,000, twice as much as an average 4kWh lead-acid solar battery.
However, a 4kWh lithium-ion solar battery would offer around 4,000 lifecycles (a lifespan of around 10-11 years) and a Depth of Discharge (DoD) of 90%.
Moreover, the cost per kWh per cycle of an average 4kWh lithium-ion battery would be approximately £0.28.
Lead-Ion Batteries (Old-School)
Lead-acid batteries are another popular choice but are largely being out-competed by lithium-ion batteries due to the significant advantages lithium-ion offers.
However, lead-acid batteries are more affordable at around £2,000 on average, making them a viable option for households with a stricter budget.
Compared to lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries have a lower energy density, a shorter lifespan, and are much heavier and larger.
These characteristics can make them less efficient and more cumbersome for certain applications, though their cost-effectiveness remains a strong selling point for budget-conscious consumers.
While there are some other types of battery storage available, these are not typically used in domestic settings and are instead used for large-scale commercial applications. These include the following:
1. Solid-State Batteries
Offering higher energy density and improved safety over traditional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries are still in the development phase and are currently more expensive, making them suitable for specialised commercial and industrial applications.
2. Flow Batteries
Storing energy in liquid electrolytes contained in external tanks, flow batteries can be easily scaled up by increasing the size of the tanks. This makes them ideal for large-scale energy storage solutions such as grid storage and renewable energy integration, rather than domestic use due to their size and complexity.
3. Sodium-sulfur (NaS) Batteries
Known for their high energy density and long discharge times, NaS batteries are often used in large-scale energy storage applications such as grid stabilisation and renewable energy storage. Their high operating temperatures and safety concerns make them unsuitable for residential use.
4. Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries
While durable and able to perform well in extreme temperatures, NiCd batteries are more commonly found in industrial applications due to their toxicity and the environmental challenges associated with cadmium.
5. Zinc-Bromine (ZnBr) Batteries
These flow batteries are effective for large-scale storage due to their scalability and long cycle life. However, the complexity and cost of the system make them more suitable for commercial and industrial use rather than domestic settings.
Explore a Battery Storage Case Study: Check out an insightful Q&A session featured in one of our detailed case studies on battery storage. Hear directly from a Heatable customer in the UK and gain valuable perspectives on their experience here.
The image above features a Tesla Powerwall 3 installation performed by our team of Tesla-certified installers at Heatable.
Battery storage installation systems
There are two types of battery installation: DC and AC systems.
DC battery systems
A Direct Current (DC) system connects directly to the power generation source, such as solar panels, before the electricity generation meter. This setup eliminates the need for an additional inverter, thereby increasing overall efficiency.
However, the efficiency of charging and discharging can be lower, potentially impacting any feed-in tariff benefits you might receive. For this reason, DC systems are generally not recommended for retrofitting batteries to existing photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Furthermore, according to the Energy Saving Trust, DC systems cannot be charged from the grid. This limitation could influence your decision depending on your energy needs and grid reliance.
By understanding these factors, you can better assess whether a DC system fits your specific requirements and circumstances.
AC battery systems
Alternating Current (AC) systems are connected after the electricity generation meter.
Consequently, you’ll need an AC/DC power unit to convert the electricity your solar panels generate into AC for household use and then back to DC for battery storage.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, AC systems tend to be more expensive than DC systems.
However, an AC system has the advantage of not impacting your feed-in tariff payments, as the generation meter can accurately register the total system output. This ensures you receive the full benefit of the energy you produce.
Other Storage Battery Metrics to Consider:
Selecting the optimal battery system involves evaluating a range of crucial metrics, each contributing to the overall performance, longevity, and cost-effectiveness of the battery.
The key parameters to consider include:
Can You Expand The Battery Storage Capacity?
Should you opt for a capacity that proves too modest, expansion remains a viable option by integrating additional batteries.
Nonetheless, it's imperative to verify that the chosen battery is stackable, as not all brands offer this feature.
Thankfully, most brands do, but brands differ a lot in terms of how many batteries you can add to the same series, therefore, it's always worth checking before making a final decision.
Max AC Power Output
This metric represents the peak power a battery can deliver at any moment, measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), indicating the battery's ability to meet high energy demands.
Charging Capacity
This refers to the maximum rate at which a battery can be charged, essential for understanding how quickly the battery can be ready for use.
Depth of Discharge (DoD)
DoD indicates the percentage of the battery's total capacity that has been utilised. A higher DoD means more of the battery's stored energy can be used, affecting its lifespan and efficiency.
Battery Weight
The mass of the battery can impact installation options and suitability for certain locations.
Lifecycle (Number of Cycles)
This figure denotes the total number of complete charge-discharge cycles a battery can perform before its capacity falls below a specific percentage of its original capacity, offering insight into the battery's longevity.
Installation Flexibility
Whether a battery can be mounted on a wall, placed on the floor, or both, affects the integration with existing spaces.
Warranty Period
The duration and coverage of the manufacturer’s warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against premature failure.
Battery Cost (Including Installation)
The upfront and long-term costs of the battery system are critical for calculating return on investment.
Physical Size and Design
The dimensions and aesthetic design of the battery may influence the decision based on space constraints and visual preferences.
Still don't know which battery storage is best for you? Check our best battery storage review here, or see which batteries we recommend as options for your home here.
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Next Steps For Your Battery Journey:
When planning to install battery storage for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:
To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their battery installation.
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