Currently, there is a lot of buzz around battery-storage systems and battery back -up systems. They are not necessarily the same. With the new net-metering rules, ‘peak shaving’ as well as grid overload, (planned) outages and other power failures, it is important to know the differences, as they serve different purposes in power supply management.
Battery storage systems are designed to work in conjunction with the existing power grid to provide additional power during peak demand times or when the grid is experiencing disruptions. These systems typically use renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to supplement the grid’s energy supply, and they can be configured to automatically switch on and off based on grid demand and supply conditions.
On the other hand, battery backup systems are designed to provide uninterrupted power supply in the event of a power outage or grid failure. These systems use batteries to store energy when the grid is functioning normally, and then release that energy to power essential appliances and devices when the grid goes down. Battery backup systems can be configured to power an entire home or just a few critical devices, and they can be installed with solar panels or other renewable energy sources to maintain a sustainable power supply.
Hybrid inverters (like Sol-Ark) and inverter ecosystems (Enphase, SolarEdge) are able to provide both functions if designed and set up correctly. Grid-Assist and Off-Grid systems designed by Unbound solar will provide both functions.
In summary, while battery storage systems are designed to provide additional power during peak demand or disruptions, battery backup systems are designed to provide uninterrupted power supply in the event of a power outage or grid failure. Make sure to have your solar-system ready for both.
This content was originally published here.
