Demystifying Solar Storage: A Handyman’s Guide to How It Works

In the ever-evolving world of renewable energy, solar power stands tall as one of the most accessible and eco-friendly solutions. And as solar panel technology continues to advance, so does the need for effective solar storage systems. But how exactly does solar storage work, and how can it benefit you as a handyman or homeowner?

In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify solar storage, breaking down the complex workings of this technology into simple and practical terms. Whether you’re a seasoned handyman eager to enhance your knowledge or a homeowner exploring options for sustainable energy, this article is for you.

We’ll delve into the different types of solar storage systems, including batteries and other innovative solutions, and explore how they integrate with your existing solar power setup. You’ll also gain valuable insights into the advantages of solar storage, such as reducing reliance on the grid and maximizing energy usage, saving you money in the process.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be armed with the knowledge and confidence to harness the full potential of solar storage.

Research suggests that people are caring more about the environment than they have ever done before. This may be partly because we live in an enlightened age and are more aware of how our actions impact the planet. This is certainly one of the factors that are driving interest in solar power. Of course, the recent global pandemic and economic issues also highlight the uncertainty and instability of jobs and the current fragile economic situation.

All these factors point toward purchasing and installing solar panels. However, solar panels on their own are not enough, that’s why you need to opt for premium solar installations.

Power Without the Sun

The sun heats the solar panels and creates movement in the molecules which generate electricity. This is capture and sent to a transformer to be converted into usable current. As long as the sun is out you have electricity, the only limit is the number of panels. The greater the number of panels the more power you will have available. Of course, you use more power when the sun disappears. This is generally when you cook and you certainly need lights. The good news is that most solar installations will generate more power during the day than you need. All you have to do is store that power. It’s referred to as solar storage.

How Solar Storage Works

In effect, solar storage simply means that the electricity created by the sun and your solar panels is stored inside a battery. This battery can then provide the power you need when the sun has gone to bed. In essence, the principle is simple, excess electricity generated in the day is sent to the battery, ready to be used at night. However, the electricity created by the solar panels is known as DC, Direct Current. The electricity used in your home is AC. That means you need a transformer to convert the power into a useable state. But, if you want to store it in a battery it needs to be stored as DC.

As there is no point in converting it from DC to AC and back to DC, you need a smart controller. This knows what current your home is drawing and sends that to the transformer which converts it to AC. The rest is sent to the battery to be stored. When needed power is pulled from the battery by the controller and sent to the transformer.  The system needs to be set up properly to ensure you have electricity when you need it. It should be noted that although we say battery, for most homes you will need several batteries. The exact number will depend on how much current you need to store and how much you use when the panels are not producing electricity. Solar storage is a viable way to ensure you can come completely off-grid and protect yourself against energy costs rising. But, you need to speak to the professionals to ensure it is installed safely and effectively.

Types of solar storage systems

There are several different types of solar storage systems available, each with its own unique features and benefits. One of the most common types is the battery-based solar storage system, which uses a battery bank to store the excess energy generated by the solar panels.

Another type of solar storage system is the pumped-storage hydroelectric system, which uses excess energy to pump water up to a higher elevation, where it is stored in a reservoir. When energy is needed, the water is released and used to generate electricity through a turbine.

More recently, there has been a growing interest in thermal energy storage systems, which use excess heat generated by the solar panels to heat or cool a building. These systems can be particularly useful in areas with high heating or cooling demands, as they can help to reduce the overall energy consumption of the building.

Common misconceptions about solar storage

One common misconception about solar storage is that it is only useful for homeowners and handymen who live in areas with abundant sunshine. In reality, solar storage can be beneficial in a wide range of climates and locations, as it can help to reduce reliance on the electrical grid and provide a reliable backup source of energy.

Another misconception is that solar storage is prohibitively expensive. While it’s true that the initial cost of a solar storage system can be high, the long-term savings and benefits can often outweigh the upfront investment. Additionally, as solar storage technology continues to evolve, the costs are expected to decrease over time, making it more accessible to a wider range of homeowners and handymen.

Finally, some people may believe that solar storage is difficult to maintain or that it requires a high level of technical expertise. While it’s true that solar storage systems do require some maintenance and attention, the process can be relatively straightforward for handymen and homeowners who are willing to learn the necessary skills and techniques.

Comparing solar storage with traditional energy storage methods

While solar storage is a relatively new technology, it offers several advantages over traditional energy storage methods, such as batteries or generators.

One key advantage of solar storage is that it is a renewable and sustainable energy source, which means that it can be used indefinitely without depleting natural resources or contributing to environmental pollution. In contrast, traditional energy storage methods, such as fossil fuel-powered generators, can have a significant environmental impact and may become more expensive to operate over time as fuel prices fluctuate.

Another advantage of solar storage is its ability to provide a reliable and consistent source of energy, even during power outages or natural disasters. Unlike generators, which rely on a steady supply of fuel, solar storage systems can continue to generate and store energy as long as the sun is shining, providing a more resilient and dependable source of power.

Case studies and success stories of solar storage implementation

One successful example of solar storage implementation is the Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia. The resort installed a 2.7 megawatt solar power system, along with a 3 megawatt-hour battery storage system, to reduce its reliance on the electrical grid and lower its energy costs.

The solar storage system has been a resounding success, allowing the resort to generate and store a significant amount of its own energy. This has not only reduced the resort’s energy bills but has also helped to improve its sustainability and environmental footprint.

Another example of successful solar storage implementation is the Birdseye Renewable Energy project in Vermont. The project involved the installation of a 2.2 megawatt solar power system, coupled with a 3 megawatt-hour battery storage system, to provide reliable and renewable energy to the local community.

The solar storage system has been instrumental in reducing the community’s reliance on the electrical grid and has also helped to improve the resilience of the local energy infrastructure. By storing excess energy generated during the day, the system is able to provide a reliable source of power during periods of high demand or grid outages.

Conclusion: The future of solar storage

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and the need for more sustainable energy solutions, the future of solar storage looks increasingly bright. With advancements in battery technology, improved efficiency, and decreasing costs, solar storage is poised to play a critical role in the transition to a more renewable and resilient energy future.

For handymen and homeowners, the benefits of solar storage are clear. By harnessing the power of the sun and storing it for later use, they can reduce their reliance on the electrical grid, save money on their energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

As the technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, we can expect to see an increasing number of handymen and homeowners embracing solar storage as a means of powering their homes and workshops. And with the right knowledge and expertise, these individuals can play a vital role in shaping the future of renewable energy and creating a more sustainable world for generations to come.