Sustainable energy sources are the way of the future. With concerns about climate change spiking, people are starting to change their ways. More and more people are purchasing solar panels and other green energy products to power their homes. However, just because you have solar power at your disposal doesn’t mean your homes needs to be powered by traditional electricity. There are other, greener options available that can store the energy produced by the sun for use when needed. This article will discuss three of the most effective methods for storing solar energy.
Lithium Ion Batteries
Lithium ion batteries are one of the most effective forms of solar energy storage. They are light, portable, and can be easily stored anywhere. They also have a relatively long lifespan compared to other forms of storage. These are the reasons why many people choose to use lithium ion batteries for their solar power storage needs. If you plan on using solar energy to power your home or business, consider investing in lithium ion batteries.
The lifespan of lithium ion batteries can vary from one to three years. The built-in self-discharge rate of these batteries is very low, which makes them easy to maintain and use. Because they are also rechargeable, you don’t need to purchase new batteries as often as other forms of energy storage. If you purchase a sealed lithium ion battery, the lifespan can be extended by about a year. This makes them more affordable over time.
Hydro Storage
Hydro storage is another form of solar energy storage that has been gaining popularity. Like lithium ion batteries, hydro storage is a sustainable energy source that can be used to power homes and businesses. The main difference between hydro storage and lithium ion batteries is how they are stored. While lithium ion batteries can be stored anywhere, hydro storage works best when located near a body of water. The water provides the necessary cooling for the device.
You can use different sizes of hydro dams for energy storage, which provides a variety of options. The larger the hydro dam the more energy that can be stored. However, the more expensive the storage solution becomes. If you plan on storing a significant amount of energy, consider investing in a larger hydro dam. Just make sure you have the proper permit first! The lifespan of a hydro dam is about 15 years, which provides a long-term solution to the energy storage problem. With the right permit, you can build a small hydro dam and still benefit from its energy storage capabilities.
Thermal Storage
Thermal storage is the storage of heat. Much like traditional air conditioning, thermal storage absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night. The trade-offs with thermal storage are that it is relatively more expensive than the other methods and doesn’t provide as fast power generation. However, if you need a highly reliable and long-lasting energy source, thermal storage is the way to go. If you plan on using solar energy to power your home or business, consider investing in thermal storage.
In the summertime, thermal storage can be a great solution to quickly and easily bring down the temperature in your home or business. When the temperature outside is rising, you will be thankful for the extra speed and efficiency that thermal storage brings to your electronics. The lifespan of a thermal storage system is about ten years, which makes it more affordable in the long run.
Choosing to go green with your home or business energy sources is a great option. More and more people are installing solar panels and other green energy products on their roofs to provide for their electricity needs. If your home or business was not designed with energy conservation in mind, it can be difficult to determine how much power you need. Unless you are purchasing a new home or business, it is highly unlikely that your existing structure was built with today’s energy conservation measures in mind. If you are looking for a long-term or short-term solution to your energy needs, consider investigating the various options available to you.