taec™

Considerations for off-grid applications:

Your choice of battery size and type is an important design consideration, particularly for systems that have no backup power source.

The batteries alone can represent 25 to 50 percent of total system cost, so it is essential to select the right type. You can use different types of rechargeable batteries, depending on the system's requirements. Batteries with a long expected life have higher initial costs but should cost less in the long run. Several batteries on the market are designed for use with renewable energy systems, such as PV and wind systems.

Deep-discharge marine, golf cart or fork lift truck batteries may also be suitable and are generally more affordable up front. TAEC can advise on what type of battery is best for your needs.

Most Wind & PV systems use lead-acid batteries such as deep-discharge lead-calcium or lead-antimony batteries. Do not use car batteries as they are not designed for repeated deep discharges.

Battery storage capacity is generally rated in ampere-hours (Ah). This is the amount of current that a battery will deliver over a given number of hours at its normal voltage and at a temperature of 25°C. The rated capacity of any battery drops with temperature.

The size of battery you require is determined by the total anticipated drain on the battery. You can calculate this if you know the following information: the voltage of the battery, the wattage of the load, the length of time the load is operated and the ambient temperature of the batteries.