Many families now want to install residential energy storage to save on electricity bills and cope with power outages. However, with so many products on the market, there's no need to blindly follow trends. Choose one that suits your specific needs. Below, we'll guide you on how to choose.
First, clarify your needs to avoid wasting money.
Different uses require different configurations. Identifying your specific needs is crucial:
If you have solar panels: To maximize the electricity generated by your solar panels and minimize waste, choose energy storage that matches the power output of your solar panels. Storing surplus electricity is more cost-effective than selling it back to the grid at a lower price.
If you want to save money through peak and off-peak electricity pricing: Electricity prices vary between peak and off-peak hours (e.g., more expensive at night, cheaper late at night). Energy storage can charge during off-peak hours and discharge during peak hours. The greater the price difference, the more money you save.
If you're worried about power outages: Focus on two key points: first, how long can it power critical equipment (refrigerator, lights, internet) during a power outage? Second, can it quickly switch to a different power source to ensure uninterrupted use?
Solar power cannot be fed into the grid with excess electricity: Use energy storage to store excess electricity, avoiding waste and meeting grid requirements.
Check conditions in advance for a smoother installation: Calculate your household electricity consumption: Record your meter readings for a few days to know your peak and off-peak electricity usage, and how much electricity high-power appliances (air conditioner, water heater) require when running simultaneously. This will help you choose the appropriate capacity.
Clarify policies and grid requirements: Confirm whether it's possible to install in your area, how to connect to the grid, and fire safety regulations. Don't install something that doesn't meet requirements and won't work.
Consider the installation environment: Energy storage should be placed in a well-ventilated, dry location, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. For rooftop installations, confirm the load-bearing capacity. In areas with high or low temperatures, choose products suitable for specific temperatures.
Focus on two key parameters to avoid being ripped off: You don't need to understand too many technical terms; just remember two key points:
Battery capacity: Don't just look at the nominal capacity; the actual usable capacity will be less (e.g., nominal 10 kWh, actual usable 9 kWh). Leave a margin when choosing to avoid running out of power.
Charge and discharge speed: If you have high-power appliances at home (central air conditioning, electric oven), or are worried about power outages disrupting your use, choose a fast charge and discharge device; for ordinary household use, the normal speed is sufficient.
