How does solar battery work in storage system
Solar Battery is a key component of solar power generation systems,used to store excess electricity generated by solar panels and release it when needed to solve the intermittent problem of solar power generation (such as at night or on cloudy days),its working principle involves the bidirectional conversion of electrical energy and chemical energy,with the core relying on the redox reactions inside the battery,here are its workflow and key technologies:
1.The key working principle of solar batteries
Charging process (storing electrical energy)
The direct current (or grid power) generated by solar panels is input into the energy storage battery through a controller.
Oxidation reactions (negative electrode) and reduction reactions (positive electrode) occur inside the battery, converting electrical energy into chemical energy for storage.
Taking lithium-ion batteries as an example:
During charging,lithium ions are released from the positive electrode and embedded into the negative electrode (graphite) through the electrolyte,electrons flow through the external circuit to the negative electrode,completing energy storage.
Discharge process (releasing electrical energy)
When solar energy is insufficient or load demand increases,the battery discharges.
A reverse reaction occurs inside the battery, converting chemical energy into electrical energy.
Taking lithium-ion batteries as an example:
During discharge,lithium ions are released from the negative electrode and return to the positive electrode through the electrolyte,electrons flow through the external circuit to the load,providing current.
2.Types and characteristics of Solar Battery
Lead Acid Battery:Low cost, high safety, but short lifespan and low energy density.
Lithium Ion Battery:High energy density and long lifespan,but high cost, requiring thermal management.
Lithium iron phosphate battery:High safety,high temperature resistance,long lifespan,and moderate energy density.
Sodium sulfur batteries, flow batteries etc:Suitable for large-scale energy storage,but with low technological maturity or high cost.
3.Composition and workflow of energy storage system
Solar panels: convert light energy into direct current.
Controller (charge and discharge management):
Monitor battery status (voltage, temperature, remaining capacity).
Prevent overcharging or discharging to protect battery life.
Solar battery pack: stores electrical energy.
Inverter: Convert direct current into alternating current for use in households or the power grid.
Load or grid: consumes or receives electrical energy.
Typical workflow:
Charging: Excess solar energy → Controller guides current to charge the battery.
Discharge: Insufficient solar energy → Battery discharge, powered by inverter.
4.Conclusion
It does store and release electrical energy through reversible electrochemical reactions,serving as the “reservoir” of solar energy systems,its technological development direction includes improving energy density,extending lifespan,reducing costs,and enhancing safety,when choosing energy storage batteries,it is necessary to balance performance and economy based on the application scenarios (household, industrial and commercial, power grid).