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FREMONT, CA: While renewable energy has gained massive traction in the past few years, their intermittent availability has limited the firms’ dependence on them. As a result, battery developments within the renewable energy sector have flourished. Batteries are especially crucial for those who are not connected to the utility grid. The use of batteries significantly enhances the reliability of solar panels. In this way, firms can save enough energy from renewable sources to support their operations during energy shortages. While there are various advantages of having a full-fledged and advanced battery system, finding the best battery solution for a particular solar installation can be challenging. Here are the three major options of cells that can store solar energy.
Flooded Lead Acid Battery
Flooded lead-acid batteries have been the most popular solar batteries for quite some time. Such batteries are not only inexpensive but also 99 percent recyclable, thereby making them highly affordable. The battery design enables it to handle the daily charging cycle. The key advantages of such batteries include reliability, security, and affordability. However, there is a need to keep the cell plates underwater for them to function properly. Hence they are called “flooded.”
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Battery
AGM batteries include a sealed lead-acid battery against the flooded batteries. Such batteries have been used in aircraft, military vehicles as well as in UPS. In this variant of lead-acid battery, a fiberglass matt is installed to absorb the electrolyte. The key advantage of AGM battery is that they have low internal resistance, thereby enabling them to endure higher temperature as well as discharge slowly.
Gel Battery
GEL battery is yet another type of sealed-battery. Such batteries are especially useful in deep cycle applications. GEL batteries use fumed silica to form the thickening agent for the electrolyte. The fumed silica makes the cells resistant to external agents. Further, GEL batteries are durable without much need for maintenance.
With emerging needs and demands, solar cells are evolving too. Investments in solar cells will reap long-term benefits for the energy industry.
See also: Top Energy Companies
