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Are solar batteries worth it

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Introduction to Solar Batteries

Solar batteries are key components in modern renewable energy systems, designed to store energy produced by solar panels during peak sunlight hours. This stored energy is then available for use during nighttime or cloudy days, enhancing the functionality of solar installations by ensuring a consistent and reliable energy supply.

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Types of Solar Batteries

The choice of a solar battery depends on various factors, including budget, energy needs, and installation specifics. Here are the most commonly used types:
  1. Lithium-Ion Batteries: These are the most popular choice for residential and commercial solar systems due to their high efficiency, long lifespan, and compact size. Lithium-ion batteries have a high energy density, which means they can store more energy in less space compared to other types. They are relatively lightweight and have a decline rate of capacity much slower than other batteries, making them ideal for long-term use. However, the advanced technology that gives these batteries their edge also makes them one of the most expensive options on the market.
  2. Lead-Acid Batteries: Known for their affordability and reliability, lead-acid batteries have been used for decades in various applications, including solar energy systems. They are particularly favored in off-grid installations where large storage capacities are needed at a lower upfront cost. The main drawbacks are their bulkiness, weight, and the maintenance required to ensure longevity, including regular topping up of electrolyte levels and ensuring they are not overcharged.
  3. Saltwater Batteries: As a newer technology in the market, saltwater batteries offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional batteries. They do not contain heavy metals like lead or corrosive acids, instead using saltwater as the electrolyte. While they are safer and more eco-friendly, their energy density is lower than that of lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries, which means they require more space to store the same amount of energy.

Enhancements in Technology

Recent advancements in solar battery technology focus on increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing the environmental profile of the products. Innovations include improvements in battery chemistry, integration with smart home technologies, and modular designs that allow for easier expansion of storage capacity as needs grow.
These advancements are not just enhancing the appeal of solar batteries from a technical perspective but are also making them a more compelling investment by extending their usable life and reducing the total cost of ownership.

The Financial Benefits of Solar Generation

Investing in solar batteries can yield significant financial returns over time, making it a smart choice for increasing the value of solar installations.

Cost Reduction

The ability to store solar energy for later use means homeowners can significantly reduce their reliance on the grid, particularly during peak usage times when electricity rates are highest. This capability is crucial for making the most out of your solar investment:
  1. Peak Shaving: By using stored energy during peak hours, you can avoid the high costs associated with peak electricity rates. This is especially beneficial in areas with time-of-use billing, where electricity prices fluctuate based on demand throughout the day.
  2. Demand Charge Reduction: For commercial installations, demand charges based on the maximum spike in usage can be exorbitant. Solar batteries help smooth out energy usage, reducing these spikes and thereby lowering monthly energy bills significantly.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Solar batteries improve the overall efficiency of solar power systems by capturing excess energy that would otherwise be sent back to the grid. This not only maximizes the use of generated solar power but also ensures that homeowners are not subject to the often less favorable terms of net metering agreements, where the energy sent back to the grid may be undervalued.

Return on Investment (ROI)

The ROI from solar batteries is influenced by several factors, including initial setup costs, savings on energy bills, lifespan of the system, and available government incentives. Calculating the ROI requires an analysis of these factors:
  1. Initial and Ongoing Costs: This includes the cost of the batteries, installation, and any maintenance or replacement costs over the lifespan of the battery.
  2. Savings on Energy Bills: Calculated by estimating how much electricity the solar battery system will save on a monthly or annual basis.
  3. Incentives: Federal, state, or local incentives can offset a substantial portion of the upfront costs, accelerating the ROI.

Enhancing Grid Independence with Solar Batteries

Investing in solar batteries not only contributes to financial savings but also significantly enhances a household’s or business’s energy independence. This independence is crucial during power outages and grid instability, which are becoming more frequent due to various factors including aging infrastructure and extreme weather events due to climate change.

Reliability During Outages

One of the primary benefits of solar batteries is their ability to provide reliable power during grid outages. This is particularly important in areas prone to extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes, wildfires, or heavy storms, which can knock out power for extended periods. With a solar battery system:
  1. Emergency Power Supply: Solar batteries can be designed to kick in automatically when the grid goes down, ensuring continuous power without interruption. This is essential for maintaining critical devices such as home medical equipment, refrigerators, and heating systems.
  2. Self-Sufficiency: For those living in remote areas, or areas where the grid is unreliable, solar batteries provide a much-needed layer of security. They ensure that households and businesses can operate independently of grid power, which is not only convenient but often necessary for daily operations.
  3. Sustainability: By reducing dependence on the grid, solar batteries also contribute to the sustainability of the energy system. They help to balance the load on the grid, especially during peak demand times, which can prevent blackouts and reduce the need for expensive, pollution-heavy peaking power plants.

Increasing Solar Utilization

Without a battery, solar energy is only available in real-time, during sunlight hours. However, energy demand often peaks in the early evening when solar production is decreasing. Solar batteries address this mismatch by:
  1. Storing Excess Energy: Solar batteries store excess production during peak sunlight hours, which can then be used during the evening or on cloudy days, maximizing the use of solar energy.
  2. Enhancing Energy Security: By storing excess energy, batteries ensure that solar energy users are less impacted by changes in state or utility net metering policies, which can affect the financial return of solar investments.
  3. Load Balancing: Batteries can help balance the energy load within a home or grid system, reducing the strain on the grid and helping to stabilize voltage and frequency, which can improve overall grid reliability.

Environmental Impact of Solar Batteries

The environmental benefits of solar batteries are significant, as they help to reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-derived electricity and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. However, the production and disposal of batteries also have environmental impacts that must be considered.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

Solar batteries play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of residential and commercial energy systems:
  1. Decreased Fossil Fuel Usage: By maximizing the utilization of solar power, batteries reduce the need for fossil fuel-based power generation, thus lowering the overall emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
  2. Supporting Renewable Energy Adoption: As batteries make solar systems more efficient and reliable, they increase the viability of solar solutions in more areas and applications, encouraging wider adoption of renewable energy technologies.

Addressing Environmental Concerns

While solar batteries offer significant environmental benefits, they also pose challenges:
  1. Battery Production: The production of batteries involves the extraction and processing of metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which can have significant environmental impacts. However, advances in battery technology and recycling are aimed at reducing these effects.
  2. End-of-Life Management: Disposing of solar batteries, particularly those containing toxic materials, must be handled carefully to avoid environmental contamination. Increasingly, recycling programs are being developed to recover valuable materials from used batteries, reducing the need for new raw materials and lessening environmental impact.

The Benefits of Choosing Himax Electronics

Opting for Himax Electronics in your solar battery setup brings additional advantages that enhance the overall value of the investment:
  • Cutting-edge Technology: Himax Electronics offers some of the most advanced solar battery technologies available, ensuring high efficiency and durability.
  • Environmental Commitment: Himax is committed to sustainability, not only in its products but also through responsible manufacturing practices and robust recycling programs.
  • Customer Support and Warranty: Himax provides comprehensive customer support and warranties that protect your investment and ensure long-term satisfaction with your solar battery system.

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Conclusion

Solar batteries are a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their energy independence, reduce their carbon footprint, and save on electricity costs. With the added benefits provided by Himax Electronics, users can enjoy a high-performing, sustainable, and reliable solar energy system that stands the test of time. The combination of financial savings, environmental benefits, and energy reliability makes solar batteries an increasingly essential component of modern energy solutions.
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How to hook up solar panel to battery

How to Hook Up a Solar Panel to a Battery:

A Comprehensive Guide

Connecting a solar panel to a battery is an essential step in creating a sustainable and self-sufficient energy system. This guide will provide a detailed look at each step involved in the process, from selecting the right components to installing and maintaining your solar system, ensuring you can efficiently harness solar energy for your needs.

Understanding the Components

A solar power system is composed of several key components, each playing a crucial role in converting and storing solar energy. Here’s a closer look at each:

  1. Solar Panel: Solar panels, or photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices that convert light into electricity. They consist of multiple solar cells made from layers of silicon, conductive materials, and glass. When sunlight hits a solar cell, it causes electrons to be set in motion, which initiates a flow of electric current. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect.
  2. Solar panels come in various sizes and types, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film, each with different efficiencies and cost implications. Monocrystalline panels are highly efficient and occupy less space but are more expensive. Polycrystalline panels are cheaper but less efficient. Thin-film panels, while less durable, are versatile in terms of their installation and can be used on surfaces where weight and space are constraints.
  3. Battery: The battery stores the electricity generated by the solar panels for later use. The most common types of batteries used in solar systems include:
  • Lead-acid: These are the traditional choice for large, off-grid solar systems because they are cost-effective and widely available. However, they require regular maintenance and have a shorter lifespan compared to other types.
  • Lithium-ion: Known for their long lifespan and efficiency, lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular in residential solar installations. They are maintenance-free and have a higher energy density, which means they can store more electricity in a smaller package.
  • Nickel-cadmium (NiCd)and Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH): These are less common but offer specific benefits, such as extreme temperature performance and a long cycle life, which can be crucial depending on the installation environment.
  1. Charge Controller: This device controls the rate at which electric current is added to or drawn from the batteries. It prevents overcharging and can protect against over-voltage, which can reduce battery performance or lifespan. There are two main types of charge controllers:
  • PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): These are simpler and generally cheaper controllers that are effective in small systems where efficiency is not the primary concern.
  • MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking): MPPT controllers are more efficient at converting the voltage from the solar panels to match the battery’s voltage. They optimize the power output of the panels, making them ideal for larger systems where maximizing efficiency is key.
  1. Inverter: Not always required, the inverter is necessary if you intend to power AC appliances. It converts the DC electricity stored in the battery into AC electricity that can be used by most household appliances.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Components

Choosing the appropriate components for your solar system is critical and should be based on specific needs and conditions. Here’s how to select each component effectively:

  1. Assessing Your Energy Needs: Begin by calculating your daily electricity usage in kWh, which will help determine the capacity and number of solar panels and batteries needed.
  2. Solar Panel Selection: Choose a solar panel that not only fits your budget but also your geographical location and roof space. Consider higher efficiency panels if space is limited or if you wish to maximize power output.
  3. Battery Selection: Consider your energy storage needs, budget, and the longevity of the battery. Lithium-ion batteries, while more expensive, might be more cost-effective over time due to their longer lifespan and better performance.
  4. Charge Controller Selection: Match the charge controller with the total voltage and current of the solar panel array and battery. An MPPT controller is a good investment for maximizing system efficiency, particularly in variable weather conditions.

Step 2: Wiring the Components

Once the right components are selected, the next crucial step is properly wiring them together. This step ensures that the solar panels, charge controller, battery, and any other components are connected in a way that optimizes efficiency and safety. Here’s a detailed guide on how to proceed:

  1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials: Before starting, ensure you have all necessary tools and materials. This includes suitable gauge wires, wire cutters, crimping tools, connectors, a multimeter, and safety equipment like gloves and protective eyewear.
  2. Installing the Solar Panels: Mount the solar panels in your chosen location. Ensure that the mounting structure is stable and can withstand environmental stresses like wind and snow. The panels should be angled to maximize sun exposure, which varies depending on your geographic location. Use a solar angle calculator to determine the best tilt angle.
  3. Wiring the Solar Panels to the Charge Controller: Start by connecting the solar panels to the charge controller. It is crucial to use the correct gauge of wire to handle the current and to minimize energy loss over the distance the current must travel. For most residential solar power systems, using AWG 10 or AWG 12 wires is sufficient.
  • Positive and Negative Connections: Connect the positive wire from the solar panel to the positive terminal of the charge controller, and the negative wire to the negative terminal. Ensure these connections are tight and secure to avoid any power loss or potential safety hazards.
  • Using Connectors: Employ MC4 connectors, which are standard for solar panel connections because they provide a secure and weatherproof connection. Make sure the connections are correctly matched and locked in place.
  1. Connecting the Battery to the Charge Controller: The next step is to connect the battery to the charge controller. This is critical as the charge controller regulates the battery charging, preventing overcharging and ensuring the battery’s longevity.
  • Battery Connections: Similar to the solar panel connections, attach the positive terminal of the battery to the positive terminal on the charge controller, and the negative terminal to the negative terminal. Use appropriate fuses or circuit breakers to protect the wiring and components from any short circuits or overloads.
  1. Checking Voltage and Polarity: After all connections are made, use a multimeter to check the voltage and polarity at each connection point. This ensures everything is connected correctly and the system is functioning properly. The voltage readings should match the specifications for each component.
  2. Securing the Wiring: Secure all wiring with cable ties or clips, ensuring that wires are tidy and away from any moving parts or areas that could cause wear and tear. Proper wire management not only maintains the aesthetic appearance of your installation but also reduces the risk of accidents.

Step 3: Setting Up the System

With all components wired, the next step is to set up and activate the system:

  1. Configure the Charge Controller: Program the charge controller according to the manufacturer’s specifications and your specific battery requirements. This typically involves setting the charging voltage per the battery’s type and capacity, and adjusting settings like load disconnect voltage.
  2. System Testing: Turn on the system and monitor the initial performance.
  • Monitor Charging: Check that the solar panels are adequately charging the battery. The charge controller display should indicate charging status and provide information about the charge rate and battery voltage.
  • Load Testing: Connect a small load, like a light or a fan, to the inverter (if using) to ensure the system can handle load and the inverter correctly converts DC to AC.
  1. Regular Monitoring: For the first few days, monitor the system extensively to ensure all components are functioning correctly and efficiently. Check for any unusual drops in power or fluctuations that could indicate a problem.

Step 4: Maintaining Your System

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your solar power system continues to operate efficiently and effectively over its lifetime. Here are detailed maintenance tips to keep your system in top condition:

  1. Visual Inspections: Conduct regular visual inspections of all components, including solar panels, batteries, charge controller, and wiring. Look for any signs of damage such as cracks in the solar panels, corrosion on battery terminals, frayed or exposed wires, or dust and debris accumulation.
  2. Cleaning Solar Panels: Dirt, leaves, and other debris can accumulate on your solar panels and significantly decrease their efficiency. It’s important to clean your panels periodically. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
  • Safety First: If your panels are roof-mounted, ensure you use the proper safety equipment and techniques to access your roof safely.
  • Cleaning Process: Use a soft brush or a non-abrasive sponge and soapy water to gently clean the surface of the panels. Avoid using harsh cleaning materials or pressure washers which can damage the panels.
  • Optimal Cleaning Times: Perform cleaning in the early morning or late evening to avoid hot surfaces and reduce the risk of sudden temperature changes that could crack the panels.
  1. Battery Maintenance:
  • Lithium-ion Batteries: These batteries generally require little maintenance, but it’s important to keep them in a cool, dry place and check the connections periodically for any signs of corrosion or looseness.
  • Lead-acid Batteries: Regularly check the electrolyte levels and top them up with distilled water if needed. Also, clean any corrosion from terminals and connections using a solution of baking soda and water. Ensure the area is well-ventilated when performing maintenance on lead-acid batteries.
  1. Charge Controller and Inverter Check:
  • Inspect Regularly: Check these devices for any error messages or warnings that could indicate problems. Consult the user manual for troubleshooting tips or contact the manufacturer if you encounter persistent issues.
  • Software Updates: Some charge controllers and inverters might require firmware updates to improve functionality and efficiency. Check the manufacturer’s website for updates and instructions on how to install them.
  1. Electrical Connections:
  • Check Connections: Ensure all electrical connections remain tight and secure. Loose connections can lead to a drop in system efficiency and pose a fire hazard.
  • Corrosion Prevention: Apply an anti-corrosion gel to connections, especially those exposed to harsh environments, to prevent corrosion and ensure long-term reliability.
  1. Documentation and Monitoring:
  • Keep Records: Maintain records of all maintenance activities, system performance data, and any repairs or replacements. This documentation can be invaluable for troubleshooting issues and proving compliance with warranty requirements.
  • System Monitoring: Use monitoring systems if available. Many modern solar systems offer remote monitoring through apps or software, which can provide real-time data on system performance and alert you to any issues immediately.

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The Benefits of Choosing Himax Electronics

Incorporating products from Himax Electronics into your solar setup can provide significant benefits. Himax Electronics is committed to providing high-quality solar products that offer reliability and performance. Here are some advantages of choosing Himax Electronics for your solar system:

  • Advanced Technology: Himax products are designed with the latest advancements in solar technology, ensuring high efficiency and maximum power output from your solar panels and batteries.
  • Durability: Products from Himax are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
  • Warranty and Support: Himax offers comprehensive warranties and excellent customer support, giving you peace of mind and protection for your investment.
  • Sustainability Commitment: By choosing Himax, you are partnering with a company that prioritizes sustainability in its products and operations, helping to reduce your environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Setting up and maintaining a solar panel system connected to a battery requires careful planning, regular maintenance, and attention to detail. By following this guide, you can ensure your system operates at peak efficiency and continues to provide reliable, renewable energy for years tocome. Remember, investing time in maintenance and choosing quality components from trusted providers like Himax Electronics will maximize your solar investment and contribute to a sustainable future.

 

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How much do solar batteries cost

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Understanding the Costs of Solar Batteries: A Comprehensive Guide

The shift towards renewable energy sources has accelerated in recent years, driven by the growing awareness of environmental issues and the increasing economic feasibility of technologies like solar power. Among these technologies, solar batteries represent a critical advancement, enabling efficient energy storage and management, thus allowing households and businesses to maximize the benefits of solar energy. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various costs associated with solar batteries, delve into the factors that influence these costs, and discuss how selecting high-quality products like those from Himax Electronics can substantially enhance the utility and efficiency of solar power systems.

solar battery house system

What are Solar Batteries?

Solar batteries, or photovoltaic (PV) batteries, are devices that store electrical energy generated by solar panels during peak sunlight hours. This energy can then be used during nighttime or periods of low sunlight, thereby ensuring a consistent energy supply without the need to draw power from the grid. The role of solar batteries goes beyond mere energy storage; they are pivotal in transforming solar power from a supplementary energy source to a primary one in residential and commercial settings. By mitigating issues related to the intermittent nature of solar energy, batteries help achieve energy independence and sustainability.
Solar batteries come in various types, each with distinct characteristics tailored to different uses and preferences. The most common types include:
  • Lithium-ion Batteries: Known for their high efficiency and energy density, lithium-ion batteries are the preferred choice for residential solar systems. They have a compact footprint and a longer lifespan compared to other types.
  • Lead-acid Batteries: While bulkier and with a shorter lifespan, lead-acid batteries offer a cost-effective solution for large-scale energy storage in commercial applications where space and weight are less of a concern.
  • Saltwater Batteries: An eco-friendly alternative, saltwater batteries use sustainable materials and do not contain heavy metals, making them safer and more environmentally benign.
The choice of battery type depends on several factors, including the specific energy needs of the household or business, the available space for installation, environmental priorities, and budget constraints.

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Factors Affecting the Cost of Solar Batteries

Several key factors influence the cost of solar batteries, making them a significant investment. Understanding these factors can help potential buyers make informed decisions that balance cost with performance and long-term benefits.
  1. Capacity: The capacity of a solar battery, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), directly impacts its price. Higher capacity batteries can store more energy, providing power for longer durations without requiring a recharge. This makes them ideal for larger homes or businesses with high energy demands but also increases their cost.
  2. Type of Battery: As mentioned earlier, the type of battery affects its cost. Lithium-ion batteries, while offering numerous advantages such as longer lifespans and higher efficiencies, come at a higher price point. In contrast, lead-acid batteries, although less efficient, are more affordable and may be suitable for users with limited budgets or less stringent energy needs.
  3. Brand and Quality: Premium brands that are known for their quality and reliability often command higher prices. These brands invest in advanced technology and rigorous testing to ensure their batteries offer superior performance and durability. Although they may be more expensive upfront, their longer operational lifespans and lower maintenance costs can provide better value over time.
  4. Installation Costs: The complexity of installing a solar battery system can vary widely depending on the existing solar panel setup and the specific requirements of the battery system. Installation costs can include modifications to the electrical system, building supports or enclosures for the batteries, and the labor involved in integrating the system with the home’s power grid. Professional installation ensures safety and efficiency but adds to the total cost of the system.
  5. Additional Equipment: Some solar battery systems require additional components such as power inverters, charge controllers, and battery management systems to operate efficiently. These components ensure that the battery charges and discharges within safe parameters and can significantly affect the overall system cost.
  6. Incentives and Rebates: To promote renewable energy adoption, many governments and institutions offer financial incentives, rebates, or tax credits for solar battery installations. These incentives can reduce the upfront cost and improve the return on investment for solar batteries. It is essential for buyers to research and apply for any available incentives in their region.
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How can we extend the service life of the solar street light battery?

Solar street lights are composed of multiple parts, none of which can be missing. Among them, the service life of the battery is directly related to the life of the entire solar street light. The service life of a high-quality battery is longer than that of an ordinary battery.

However, in daily use, we should do a good job of maintenance to delay the service life of the battery.

How to extend the service life of solar street light batteries

  1. Waterproofness of the battery: The outer packaging of the battery must be tight enough, preferably waterproof, to prevent rain from entering the battery and damaging the battery.
  2. Stability of discharge and charge: During the charging and discharging process, the voltage of the lithium batteries should not be too high or too low to avoid damage to the protection board or battery cell.
  3. Temperature control: Any object has its own appropriate temperature. We must control the ambient temperature of the solar battery and should not exceed the temperature range recommended by the manufacturer.

 

The above three points are about how to extend the service life of solar street light batteries.

Reliable quality

However, if you want to really increase the battery life, it is more important to rely on the quality of the battery itself.

HIMAX has customized waterproof solar street light batteries for customers, with a cycle life of more than 2,000 times, high safety and high temperature resistance.

For example, 12.8V 18Ah LiFePO4 battery, double-layer PVC wrapped sealed with silicone gel, IP65 approved.

12.8V 24Ah LiFePO4 battery, ABS case sealed with silicone gel, IP65 approved.

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Discovery brings all-solid-state sodium batteries closer to practical use

The pursuit of greener energy also requires efficient rechargeable batteries to store that energy. While lithium-ion batteries are currently the most widely used, all-solid-state sodium batteries are attracting attention as sodium is far more plentiful than lithium. This should make  sodium battery less expensive, and solid-state batteries are thought to be safer, but processing issues mean mass production has been difficult.

 

Osaka Metropolitan University Associate Professor Atsushi Sakuda and Professor Akitoshi Hayashi, both of the Graduate School of Engineering, led a research team in developing a process that can lead to mass synthesis for sodium-containing sulfides. The results were published in Energy Storage Materials and Inorganic Chemistry.

 

Using sodium polysulfides (sulfides with two or more atoms of sulfur) as both the material and the flux, which promotes fusion, the team created a solid sulfide electrolyte with the world’s highest reported sodium ion conductivity—about 10 times higher than required for practical use—and a glass electrolyte with high reduction resistance.

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Mass synthesis of such electrolytes with high conductivity and formability is key to the practical use of all-solid-state sodium battery.

 

“This newly developed process is useful for the production of almost all sodium-containing sulfide materials, including solid electrolytes and electrode active materials,” Professor Sakuda said.

 

“Also, compared to conventional methods, this process makes it easier to obtain materials that display higher performance, so we believe it will become a mainstream process for the future development of materials for all-solid-state sodium batteries.”

 

More information: Akira Nasu et al, Utilizing reactive polysulfides flux Na2S for the synthesis of sulfide solid electrolytes for all-solid-state sodium batteries, Energy Storage Materials (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ensm.2024.103307

 

Tomoya Otono et al, High-Sodium-Concentration Sodium Oxythioborosilicate Glass Synthesized via Ambient Pressure Method with Sodium Polysulfides, Inorganic Chemistry (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.3c04101

Journal information: Inorganic Chemistry

Provided by Osaka Metropolitan University

If you have any question, please feel free to contact us:
Name: Dawn Zeng (Director)
E-mail address: sales@himaxelectronics.com
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Fire-resistant sodium battery balances safety, cost and performance

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A sodium battery developed by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin significantly reduces fire risks from the technology, while also relying on inexpensive, abundant materials to serve as its building blocks.

Though battery fires are rare, increased battery usage means these incidents are on the rise.

The secret ingredient to this sodium battery breakthrough, published recently in Nature Energy, is a solid diluent. The researchers used a salt-based solid diluent in the electrolyte, facilitating the charge-discharge cycle. A specific type of salt—sodium nitrate—allowed the researchers to deploy just a single, nonflammable solvent in the electrolyte, stabilizing the battery as a whole.

Over time, the multiple liquid solvents in an electrolyte—the component that transfers charge-carrying ions between the battery’s two electrodes—react with other components in ways that degrade batteries and lead to safety risks. Sodium, an alternative to lithium that is one of the key ingredients in this battery, is highly reactive, posing a significant challenge to the adoption of these types of batteries. These reactions can lead to the growth of needle-like filaments called dendrites that can cause the battery to electrically short and even catch fire or explode.

“Batteries catch fire because the liquid solvents in the electrolyte don’t get along with other parts of the battery,” said Arumugam Manthiram, a professor in the Cockrell School of Engineering’s Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering and the lead researcher on the project. “We have reduced that risk from the equation to create a safer, more stable battery.”

In addition to the safety improvement, this new, sodium-based battery represents a less expensive alternative to the lithium-ion batteries that power smartphones, laptops, electric cars and more.

The battery also boasts strong performance. How long a battery lasts on a single charge tends to decline over time. The new sodium battery retained 80% of its capacity over 500 cycles, matching the standard of lithium-ion batteries in smartphones.

Future Batteries（Article illustrations）- Sodium Battery

“Here we show a sodium battery that is safe and inexpensive to produce, without losing out on performance,” Manthiram said. “It is critical to develop alternatives to lithium-ion batteries that are not just on par with them, but better.”

Though the researchers applied this technique to a sodium battery, they said it could also translate to lithium-ion-based cells, albeit with different materials.

Lithium mining is expensive and has been criticized for its environmental impacts, including heavy groundwater use, soil and water pollution and carbon emissions. By comparison, sodium is available in the ocean, is cheaper and is more environmentally friendly.

Lithium-ion batteries typically also use cobalt, which is expensive and mined mostly in Africa’s Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it has significant impacts on human health and the environment. In 2020, Manthiram demonstrated a novel, cobalt-free lithium-ion battery.

This battery is also free of cobalt, as well as lithium. The other components are made of 40% iron, 30% manganese and 30% nickel.

Other authors on the paper are Jiarui He, Amruth Bhargav, Laisuo Su, Julia Lamb and Woochul Shin—all from the Cockrell School’s Materials Science and Engineering program and Texas Materials Institute—and John Okasinski of Argonne National Laboratory.

More information: Jiarui He et al, Tuning the solvation structure with salts for stable sodium-metal batteries, Nature Energy (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41560-024-01469-y

Provided by University of Texas at Austin

 

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How to Keep Solar Batteries Warm in Winter

Himax - LiFePO4-Battery
Note: Most of the information in this article comes from the Solar Living Sourcebook.

Sunlight doesn’t just power your solar panels – it heats your batteries. With fewer hours of sunlight per day, winter is the time of year when it’s most important to make sure the energy storage component of an off-grid solar system or grid-tie solar system with battery backup is working efficiently. Unfortunately for those of us in the northern U.S. and Canada, winter can bring extreme cold, creating the worst environmental conditions for those deep-cycle batteries.

But just because deep cycle solar batteries have a harder time in cold temperatures doesn’t mean you need to suffer through the winter with them. Learning a few simple tricks to keep solar batteries warm in winter will substantially improve their performance during the part of the year in which you rely on them most.

Note: Lithium-ion and sealed lead acid batteries (AGM and gel cell) fare much better in cold weather than traditional flooded lead acid batteries do, and are now so safe that they can – and should – be installed indoors. If you’ve got these batteries and they’re installed indoors, you should have nothing to worry about when it comes to cold weather!

Why Are Cold Temperatures Bad for Solar Batteries?

First let’s clarify that cold temperatures are actually good for batteries when it comes to holding a charge; a battery placed in a refrigerator will self-discharge more slowly than the same battery in a warmer setting (and in fact, some people keep their household AA and 9V batteries in the fridge). Where cold becomes a detriment to batteries is in situations where charging and discharging is frequent and the cycles are deep – like in a renewable energy system. This is because cold slows down the chemical reactions that take place inside a battery as it supplies electrical current. Colder temperatures reduce current, which in turn lowers energy storage capacity.

The cold weather problem is compounded with deep cycle batteries used for solar storage because cold weather usually coincides with storms or the shorter days of winter. In both cases, PV production is lower due to the reduced number of sun hours, and the loads in the house are often higher due to active heating.

How Cold is “Cold” When it Comes to Solar Batteries?

Most batteries are rated at 77°F (25°C), meaning their technical specs are based on how the battery’s cells perform at 77 degrees. As a rule of thumb, batteries lose about 10% of their rated capacity for every 15-20 degrees below 80°F as measured in the cells.

How Can You Keep Your Solar Batteries Warm?

The best way to keep deep cycle solar batteries warm is simply to give them shelter and insulation. Let’s look at how to best do this, depending on what kind of deep cycle batteries you have.

How to Keep Lithium-Ion Solar Batteries Warm in Winter

Lithium-ion solar batteries can be safely installed inside your house, meaning the “shelter” and “insulation” boxes are already checked and no additional action needs to be taken. However, if they are installed someplace where there’s a risk of freezing, special care must be taken because – while they can safely discharge in temperatures as low 0°F (-18°C) – lithium-ion batteries should never be charged in sub-freezing temperatures (below 32°F or 0°C).

Nearly all lithium-ion solar batteries on the market today include at least a basic built-in battery management system (BMS) that can activate an external heating source when ambient temperatures approach freezing, ensuring the battery’s environment stays warm enough for safe charging. A few more advanced lithium batteries even have internal heaters that are managed by their BMS.

How to Keep Flooded Lead Acid Solar Batteries Warm in Winter

Even though flooded – or “wet cell” – lead acid batteries can charge at lower temperatures than lithium-ion batteries (as low as -4°F or -20°C), they typically require the most attention in winter because they cannot be installed inside your house where temperatures are nicely regulated. (When in use these batteries release hydrogen gas – which is explosive at even a modest 4% concentration.)

Instead, flooded lead acid batteries should be kept inside a battery box or enclosure with 2″ holes near the top and bottom for ventilation. If the enclosure is inside an insulated garage or shed, they most likely won’t need any extra help staying warm. But if the enclosure itself is not in an insulated area, it should be “reinforced” with insulation and thermal mass to stabilize temperature swings. Because the batteries generate a bit of heat when they are charging, the insulation will keep that heat inside the enclosure, keeping the batteries warmer.

Simply get a sheet or two of rigid foam insulation from your local hardware store:

  • Do a quick internet search for the proper R-value of insulation you should buy based on where you’ll be using it
  • Insulation rated for use below grade use is best because it is moisture resistant

Diagram of an insulated outdoor enclosure for flooded lead acid batteries

Wires and cables pass through wall at bottom of battery box to prevent hydrogen from entering the house (hydrogen rises).

When installing insulation in your battery enclosure:

  • Cut the sheet to size with a circular saw, or score it with a utility knife and snap it over an edge for a clean cut
  • Leave an inch or two between the batteries and the insulation (and a little space between the batteries themselves) to allow air to circulate and keep temperatures as uniform as possible across all the batteries
  • Don’t cover your ventilation holes
  • Don’t permanently adhere the insulation to the enclosure – you’ll want to remove it when the weather warms up so the batteries don’t overheat in the summer

How to Keep AGM/Sealed Lead Acid Solar Batteries Warm in Winter

Like lithium-ion batteries, sealed lead acid batteries (AGM and gel cell) are safe enough to be installed indoors, giving you a huge leg up on temperature regulation. Also working in your favor is the fact that sealed battery cells freeze at lower temperatures than flooded/wet cells do. It’s best to check the manufacturer’s specs for your specific batteries regarding minimum charging and discharging temperatures. If your batteries are going to be exposed to temperatures lower than the minimums listed by the manufacturers, the same techniques suggested for lithium-ion and flooded lead acid batteries can be used to keep your sealed-cell batteries warm enough for safe use (insulated enclosure and a BMS/heater).

Tools and Tech to Help Keep Solar Batteries Healthy in Winter

MPPT Charge Control Technology

A charge controller with maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technology is probably already part of your battery-based solar system, but those short winter days are when you’ll be happiest to have it. MPPT solar charge controllers squeeze 15-30% more power out of a PV array on average than non-MPPT controllers by converting excess PV voltage into amperage. MPPT controllers perform best with cold PV modules and hungry batteries (sounds like winter conditions!), and can adjust the battery voltage based on battery temperature to help the cells reach 100% state of charge.

Battery Temperature Sensor

A battery temperature sensor can provide an early warning if battery temperatures drop below recommended levels. Some charge controllers will stop charging at certain low temperatures.

Battery Management Systems (BMS)

A battery management system includes functions beyond just temperature sensing, typically including features like voltage and depth of discharge at both the cell and battery bank level. This level of insight can help you identify problem areas in your battery bank, some of which may be cold-related.

A BMS is an absolute necessity for lithium-ion solar batteries (to prevent overcharging and thermal runaway), but most Li-ion batteries on the market today already have a BMS built in.

Battery Desulphators

These deep cycle battery maintenance tools simply connect to the battery terminals and then work automatically to remove lead sulphate buildup on the plates. Lead sulphate will otherwise build up on the plates over time, reducing a lead acid battery’s capacity and ultimately shortening its life. When you’re already contending with cold weather reducing battery capacity during the winter, you don’t need sulphate buildup compounding the problem.

Battery desulphator

Keep the Water Topped Off

It is important year-round to not let your flooded lead acid batteries go dry. In winter it’s especially critical to make sure there is plenty of water in them. A battery with low water levels is more likely to freeze.

Likewise, keep them charged up. The acid in the water prevents freezing, so a battery with a low charge is more likely to freeze than a charged one.

Adding More Battery Storage

Sometimes all the tricks in the book just aren’t enough to keep an older lead acid battery bank powerful enough to get you through the winter comfortably. Over time, batteries age and their capacity falls, and we add more electric loads to our homes. Sometimes the best way to combat the problem of cold weather limiting your batteries’ performance is to simply add capacity with a couple of new deep cycle lead acid batteries.

Winter or Not, Don’t Forget to Perform Regular Maintenance on Your Lead Acid Deep Cycle Batteries

For lithium-ion and sealed cell lead acid batteries (AGM and gel cell), a simple annual maintenance routine of cleaning the tops of the batteries with baking soda and water (then rinsing with water), and then cleaning/tightening the terminals is sufficient.

 

 

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How To Choose The Best Battery For A Solar Energy System

Himax Solar Battery

There are certain specifications you should use when evaluating your solar battery options, such as how long the solar battery will last or how much power it can provide. Below, learn about all of the criteria that you should use to compare your home energy storage options, as well as the different types of solar batteries.

How to compare your solar storage options

As you consider your solar-plus-storage options, you’ll come across a lot of complicated product specifications. The most important ones to use during your evaluation are the battery’s capacity & power ratings, depth of discharge (DoD), round-trip efficiency, warranty, and manufacturer.

Capacity & power

Capacity is the total amount of electricity that a solar battery can store, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Most home solar batteries are designed to be “stackable,” which means that you can include multiple batteries with your solar-plus-storage system to get extra capacity.

While capacity tells you how big your battery is, it doesn’t tell you how much electricity a battery can provide at a given moment. To get the full picture, you also need to consider the battery’s power rating. In the context of solar batteries, a power rating is the amount of electricity that a battery can deliver at one time. It is measured in kilowatts (kW).

A battery with a high capacity and a low power rating would deliver a low amount of electricity (enough to run a few crucial appliances) for a long time. A battery with low capacity and a high power rating could run your entire home, but only for a few hours.

Depth of discharge (DoD)

Most solar batteries need to retain some charge at all times due to their chemical composition. If you use 100 percent of a battery’s charge, its useful life will be significantly shortened.

The depth of discharge (DoD) of a battery refers to the amount of a battery’s capacity that has been used. Most manufacturers will specify a maximum DoD for optimal performance. For example, if a 10 kWh battery has a DoD of 90 percent, you shouldn’t use more than 9 kWh of the battery before recharging it. Generally speaking, a higher DoD means you will be able to utilize more of your battery’s capacity.

Himax Solar Battery

Round-trip efficiency

A battery’s round-trip efficiency represents the amount of energy that can be used as a percentage of the amount of energy that it took to store it. For example, if you feed five kWh of electricity into your battery and can only get four kWh of useful electricity back, the battery has 80 percent round-trip efficiency (4 kWh / 5 kWh = 80%). Generally speaking, a higher round-trip efficiency means you will get more economic value out of your battery.

Battery life & warranty

For most uses of home energy storage, your battery will “cycle” (charge and drain) daily. The battery’s ability to hold a charge will gradually decrease the more you use it. In this way, solar batteries are like the battery in your cell phone – you charge your phone each night to use it during the day, and as your phone gets older you’ll start to notice that the battery isn’t holding as much of a charge as it did when it was new. For example, a battery might be warrantied for 5,000 cycles or 10 years at 70 percent of its original capacity. This means that at the end of the warranty, the battery will have lost no more than 30 percent of its original ability to store energy.

Your solar battery will have a warranty that guarantees a certain number of cycles and/or years of useful life. Because battery performance naturally degrades over time, most manufacturers will also guarantee that the battery keeps a certain amount of its capacity over the course of the warranty. Therefore, the simple answer to the question “how long will my solar battery last?” is that it depends on the brand of battery you buy and and how much capacity it will lose over time.

Manufacturer

Many different types of organizations are developing and manufacturing solar battery products, from automotive companies to tech startups. While a major automotive company entering the energy storage market likely has a longer history of product manufacturing, they may not offer the most revolutionary technology. By contrast, a tech startup might have a brand-new high-performing technology, but less of a track record to prove the battery’s long-term functionality.

Whether you choose a battery manufactured by a cutting-edge startup or a manufacturer with a long history depends on your priorities. Evaluating the warranties associated with each product can give you additional guidance as you make your decision.

 

How long do solar batteries last?

There are two ways to answer this question and the first is to determine how long a solar battery can power your home. In many cases, a fully charged battery can run your home overnight when your solar panels are not producing energy. To make a more exact calculation, you’ll need to know a few variables, including how much energy your household consumes in a given day, what the capacity and power rating is for your solar battery and whether or not you are connected to the electric grid.

For the sake of a simple example, we’ll determine the size of a battery needed to provide an adequate solar plus storage solution with national average data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The average U.S. household will use roughly 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy per day and a typical solar battery can deliver some 10 kWh of capacity. Thus a very simple answer would be, if you purchased three solar batteries, you could run your home for an entire day with nothing but battery support.

12V 100AH

In reality, the answer is more complicated than that. You will also be generating power with your solar panel system during the day which will offer strong power for some 6-7 hours of the day during peak sunlight hours. On the other end, most batteries cannot run at maximum capacity and generally peak at a 90% DoD (as explained above). As a result, your 10 kWh battery likely has a useful capacity of 9 kWh.

Ultimately, if you are pairing your battery with a solar PV array, one or two batteries can provide sufficient power during nighttime when your panels are not producing. However, without a renewable energy solution, you may need 3 batteries or more to power your entire home for 24 hours. Additionally, if you are installing home energy storage in order to disconnect from the electric grid, you should install a few days’ worth of backup power to account for days where you might have cloudy weather.

 

Solar battery lifespan

The general range for a solar battery’s useful lifespan is between 5 and 15 years. If you install a solar battery today, you will likely need to replace it at least once to match the 25 to 30 year lifespan of your PV system. However, just as the lifespan of solar panels has increased significantly in the past decade, it is expected that solar batteries will follow suit as the market for energy storage solutions grows.

Proper maintenance can also have a significant effect on your solar battery’s lifespan. Solar batteries are significantly impacted by temperature, so protecting your battery from freezing or sweltering temperatures can increase its useful life. When a PV battery drops below 30° F, it will require more voltage to reach maximum charge; when that same battery rises above the 90° F threshold, it will become overheated and require a reduction in charge. To solve this problem, many leading battery manufacturers, like Tesla, provide temperature moderation as a feature. However, if the battery that you buy does not, you will need to consider other solutions like earth-sheltered enclosures. Quality maintenance efforts can definitely impact how long your solar battery will last.

 

What are the best batteries for solar?

Batteries used in home energy storage typically are made with one of three chemical compositions: lead acid, lithium ion, and saltwater. In most cases, lithium ion batteries are the best option for a solar panel system, though other battery types can be more affordable.

1. Lead acid

Lead acid batteries are a tested technology that has been used in off-grid energy systems for decades. While they have a relatively short life and lower DoD than other battery types, they are also one of the least expensive options currently on the market in the home energy storage sector. For homeowners who want to go off the grid and need to install lots of energy storage, lead acid can be a good option.

 

2. Lithium ion

The majority of new home energy storage technologies, such as the , use some form of lithium ion chemical composition. Lithium ion batteries are lighter and more compact than lead acid batteries. They also have a higher DoD and longer lifespan when compared to lead acid batteries.  However, lithium ion batteries are more expensive than their lead acid counterparts.

 

3. Saltwater

A newcomer in the home energy storage industry is the saltwater battery. Unlike other home energy storage options, saltwater batteries don’t contain heavy metals, relying instead on saltwater electrolytes. While batteries that use heavy metals, including lead acid and lithium ion batteries, need to be disposed of with special processes, a saltwater battery can be easily recycled. However, as a new technology, saltwater batteries are relatively untested, and the one company that makes solar batteries for home use (Aquion) filed for bankruptcy in 2017.

 

  • Find the best solar battery for your home

51.2V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery

12V 150Ah LiFePO4 Battery

12V 120Ah LiFePO4 Battery

 

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Types of Battery Used in Solar Lights and Advantage

solar battery

Solar lights can use different kind of battery types. Below we shall explain you different kinds of rechargeable battery which one can use in solar lights.

 

Lead–acid battery and SMF.

lithium ion battery or Li-ion.

lithium ion battery phosphate or LiFePO4.

LEAD-ACID BATTERY AND SMF:

Because of the price advantage people widely use lead acid batteries. It is inexpensive compared to new technologies batteries. But there are many disadvantages compared to Li-ion an LifePO4. It need regular maintenance, Risk of explosion is more, there are lot of environment concerns as it contains lead and it will be difficult to handle extreme weather conditions. Life of the battery is around 3 – 4 years.

 

Two of the biggest disadvantage of using lead acid battery is it needs a bigger solar panel for charging and size of battery is bigger and will require lot of space. Solar panel will have to generate at least 12 V to charge the battery. That means during cloudy days it will be difficult to generate 12 V.

 

LITHIUM ION BATTERY OR LI-ION:

Li-ion battery is compact and priced higher compared to Lead-acid battery. It requires 3.7 V of power for charging. That means solar panel size will be smaller. During cloudy days’ solar panel can generate 3.7 V and these batteries will easily charge.

 

These batteries require no maintenance and life of battery will be 5 – 6 years. Only disadvantage is there might be chances of explosion in extreme weather. Li-ion batteries efficiency reduces during Very high or very low temperatures.

 

LITHIUM ION PHOSPHATE BATTERY OR LIFEPO4.

LiFePO4 battery is compact and priced higher compared to Li-ion. It is most advanced battery type currently available in market. It requires 3.2 V of power for charging. That means solar panel size can be smaller. During cloudy days’ solar panel can generate 3.2 V and these batteries will easily charge.

 

These batteries require no maintenance and life of battery will be 9 – 12 years. Advantages of using this battery is it can with stand extreme weather conditions. Hence this is most safer battery.

 

Usage of Batteries in Solar Lights.

Lead acid batteries are widely in usage for home lighting system and emergency solar lights. Usage of Li-ion and LiFeP04 batteries are in integrated solar light system. All in One lights like, Solar Garden Lights, Solar Street Light, Solar Flood Lights etc. uses these battery types.

 

Solar Home Lighting System :

Home Lighting system requires bigger battery capacity. Bigger battery means more price.  Hence in India people use LED acid batteries. These batteries are manufactured in India unlike Li-ion and LiFeP04 batteries are imported.  These batteries require regular maintenance the life span in less compared to other batteries types.

 

Solar Street Light and Solar Garden Lights:

All the three batteries are available for solar street lights. People have started switching to Li-ion and LiFeP04 batteries for street lights. Li-ion and LiFeP04 batteries are not manufactured in India, It is imported from China, Japan or Taiwan. India has started research on development of Li-ion cell in 2018. Once they start manufacturing these batteries product cost is go down by 20%.

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Top Benefits of Solar Battery Storage for Your Home

Solar Battery

Top Benefits of Solar Battery Storage for Your Home

If you have solar panels or are looking to install solar panels, you want to get the most out of your energy system. Installing solar battery storage for excess electricity generated by your panels is one great way to improve your electricity generation system’s performance throughout the day. Here are the top benefits of solar battery storage.

Power When You Need It
One of the biggest problems with solar panels is that they only produce electricity when there’s light outside. Usually, this is when you’re not at home because of daytime activities like work and kid’s sports. Clouds and shade can also reduce the output of solar panels, causing your home to have to draw off the grid if it’s using too much electricity. With a battery, the energy that your solar panels create that isn’t used at the time of its generation gets stored. You can use the stored energy at night or doing those cloudy times when you’re at home without having to draw off the grid.
Solar Battery

Energy Security

The ability to store energy allows you to be less dependent on the grid for additional power. If you live in a place that experiences frequent brownouts or has a decaying energy infrastructure, solar batteries can help insulate you from the consequences of poor grid management. You move to greater self-sufficiency and are more in control of your energy destiny. This is great for people who are looking to get off the grid.

Better for the Environment

Most electricity on the grid is generated through coal plants and other fossil fuels. Storing your energy allows you to use the most environmentally friendly energy available. Your solar power system will continue to use fewer resources throughout the year while producing little to no waste and pollution. Because of advances in photovoltaic technology, panels create less pollution than fossil fuels during their comparative lifetime uses.

A Quiet Solution

No one wants to have to deal with the roar of a generator as it coughs to life. Even a gentle hum can be disturbing for those who are noise sensitive. Unlike noisy generators run by fossil fuels, solar batteries are silent. You don’t have to worry about trying to sleep at night or annoying the neighbors. You get all the benefits of instant electricity with none of the local pollution—both noise and air—produced by a generator. You also don’t have to store flammable or explosive fuel at your home, so you can enjoy your home and breathe easier—literally and figuratively.

 

Lower Electrical Bills

In some places, the electric utility is required to buy back any energy that you create in excess of what you use. While this results in a lower electric bill for you, using solar storage systems also results in a reduction of your energy bill because you consume less energy from the grid. Generally, the buyback is less than what the energy is sold for, so you get more for your money when you can store and use your own energy. Contact the experts at The Himax battery by visiting https://himax.en.alibaba.com/ and learn more about the solar battery.

 

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