Wind and solar power have become increasingly popular. The price of batteries has slowly decreased, making them a more viable option for power storage. To help power plant developers supply enough power to everyone who needs it, while also having a backup supply, they have begun maintaining energy through storage systems. By combining wind and solar power with batteries, they can create a hybrid solution that can be a reliable resource regardless of the weather conditions. They generate power in a way that is similar to a grid solar system but the battery aspect allows it to store energy in the case of a power outage, like an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system. Before we look at the pros and cons of hybrid energy storage systems, let’s look at why storing solar power in a battery is a great alternative to traditional grid power.
Why Are Batteries Important to Solar Energy?
Grid systems have become less attractive due to the government reducing the solar feed-in tariff. Whatever solar energy is not used will be sent to the grid for little in return. With many working during the day, they are unable to use all of their solar power, and they end up losing out on that amount of power altogether. They are not able to access it at a later time.
This is where batteries come in. A solar hybrid solution combines the benefits of solar and battery power to provide a reliable power supply even in the evenings when solar supply is not accessible. Electricity is also known for having high rates during the night time. This backup power supply can also serve as an uninterruptible power supply source during an outage.
Pros Hybrid Energy Storage Systems
Let’s look at the top five advantages of a hybrid solution to help us better understand these systems.
Weather Is Not A Factor
As we mentioned earlier, one of the most important benefits of a hybrid system is its ability to operate regardless of the weather. Since the batteries connected to hybrid energy storage solutions put away backup energy, the system is able to provide continuous, uninterrupted power regardless of outside conditions. The battery can kick in and provide clean power in the case of an outage or if the sun is hidden.
Highly Efficient
Traditional generators have been known to waste fuel at times. This does not make them an ideal solution for power supply problems. However, a hybrid energy storage system can work efficiently and effectively under any circumstances to ensure that no fuel is wasted in the process. This will give you longer run time when the power is down.
Uses Renewable Energy Correctly
When you wake up to a bright, sunny day, you do not have to worry about wasting excess energy. The battery associated with the system will soak up any leftover energy and store it for future use. This allows you to have a backup system of power to utilize on a day that may not be sunny.
Cost-effective
Traditional generators require diesel fuel to operate. With the continuous fluctuation of diesel prices, this could become a costly investment. Hybrid solar energy systems do not run on diesel making it a budget-friendlier alternative. Additionally, their maintenance costs are relatively low since there is no mandatory routine maintenance needed for the machines to function properly.
Load Management
Another factor in which hybrid energy systems trump traditional generators is how they manage loads. Generators provide immediate high power when they are turned on. While this may sound appealing, it can quickly drain the remaining energy. However, hybrid solutions have newer technologies that monitor the flow of energy and can alter it based on the device it is supporting. You will not have to worry about draining the battery quickly and will have a steady flow of energy to the system requiring power.
Cons Hybrid Energy Storage Systems
While there are many benefits to using a hybrid energy storage system, there are some disadvantages associated with them.
Initial Cost
Hybrid energy storage systems require a higher upfront cost than typical generators. This is largely due to your need to buy both solar panels and batteries. While it may be intimidating to spend that money at first, it will save you in the long run since you do not have to purchase fuel and will not need to cover any other running costs.
Battery Replacements
When the batteries are exposed to outside elements, like heat or rain, they can begin to see some wear. Over time, the battery connected to the system may need to be replaced as their lifespan decreases. Regardless of its exposure to the elements, the battery will need to be replaced at some point. This is the only cost factor after the initial purchase. It can be a factor to consider as it increases the overall price that you will need to include in your budget and adds to overhead.
Controlling Process
Since a hybrid energy storage system utilizes two different machines, it can be more complex. It will require the user to have knowledge of multiple kinds of energy sources in order for the machines to operate properly. Someone must have an adequate understanding of the systems so they can control its interactions.
Limited Connectability
The last disadvantage to discuss is the number of devices that are able to connect to the hybrid system. While this number varies based on the type of system, it is typically limited. This will decrease the number of things you will be able to power at once.
Though no uninterruptible power supply will be the perfect solution, hybrid energy storage systems are paving the way for renewable energy sources. These systems provide an alternative to traditional generators that will save you money on your power bills while providing a reliable backup power source.
Do you still have questions and want to learn more about hybrid systems before making a decision? Talk to our experts! They will help you understand all of the pros and cons to power supply options and can help you choose a solution that will deliver reliable energy no matter where you are in the world. Get in touch with us today!