Solar Battery System Types – AC Vs DC-coupled

Published on: 13 October 2020 Last Updated on: 13 September 2024
AC Vs DC

Before you choose the right solar battery, you first need to learn what AC and DC coupling means. Your solar battery storage system determines how effective your solar air conditioning will be.

There are two main ways to connect your power sources when you add battery storage to your solar energy system. AC and DC are the two main types of voltages used to conduct electricity.

Let’s find out what differentiates these two battery systems.

What is the Difference Between AC and DC Power?

AC stands for Alternating Current, and it means electric power first flows in one direction and then the other. This is the type of electric current on the main grid, and it’s suitable for your solar air-con.

DC power, on the other hand, stands for Direct current, and it means electricity flows in one direction only. This is the electric power that your solar panels generate from sunlight. The energy stored in your home’s solar battery is usually DC power.

Since your solar panels generate DC power and your solar air conditioning and other home appliances need AC power, you need a solar inverter to convert this energy to AC electricity. There are three main types of solar inverters in the market;

Traditional Inverters

This first type of inverter is also known as the central inverter because it draws power from your solar panels. If you have a solar air conditioner at home, you’ll need this kind of converter to keep it running.

It is usually a box that’s installed next to your home’s breaker box. It functions by combining all DC energy from your solar panels and converting it to DC power so that you can use your solar air conditioner Malaysia.

Micro-Inverters

The second type of inverter is an in-built component on individual solar panels. They are small inverters found on the backside of your panels. They allow your panels to individually and independently convert the harnessed DC power to AC energy.

DC-Optimizers

Lastly, we have the DC-optimizers that are devices that also go at the back of individual solar panels. Unlike Micro-inverters, they don’t convert DC to AC. Instead, they optimize conditions to ensure your home’s central inverter has an easy time converting DC to AC power. These converters work in a hybrid solar energy system that includes a traditional central inverter and in-built solar panel inverters.

Is a Battery DC or AC?

Batteries, like solar panels, store and produce DC power. Since your home’s electricity is AC, it means batteries in devices have converters that turn the AC power to DC energy.

DC batteries use the same solar inverters that your home uses to convert the stored DC energy to AC power. AC batteries, on the other hand, have an in-built inverter that directly does the conversion.

AC Vs DC -Storage Architecture

Comparing the strengths and weaknesses of these two battery storage systems helps you choose what is best for your home.

DC-Coupled Systems

The DC-coupled system is designed to connect directly to the main grid the same way as your solar panels. In which case, a hybrid inverter is required to create a synergy between the solar battery and the solar panels.

Strengths

  • There is less energy loss because it’s a one-way conversion.
  • Your system makes you eligible for Net Energy Metering if your solar panels can generate excess energy.
  • It is a simple system which translates to lower costs.
  • It is a smart option for people who’re just beginning their solar energy journey.

Weaknesses

  • If you already have a PV system, incorporating it is complex and costly.

AC-Coupled Systems

The AC-coupled system operates with two solar inverters; a conventional inverter and an additional storage inverter that charges your solar battery. It might seem like a complicated system, but it is very easy to setup. However, as compared to the DC-coupled system, it’s less efficient because it has to be charged.

Strengths

  • It is way more flexible than the DC-coupled system. The inclusion of two inverters allows you to adjust the location of the battery at will.
  • It is compatible with all kinds of solar inverters.
  • It is a cost-effective solution for people that already have a PV system.

Weaknesses

  • The system is slightly less efficient as compared to the DC-coupled system because of the AC-DC-AC conversion.
  • The system will have more points of failure because you’ll have one inverter in a different location.

Which Is Better for your Solar and Storage Needs?

If you already have a solar energy system at home, you should go with the AC-coupled system because it’s flexible and easy to set up. However, if you’re just starting your solar journey, you should go with the DC-coupled system; if you generate excess energy, you get to sell it to the main grid.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between these two solar battery systems helps you make the right purchase. Ensure that you work with a professional who understands what is best for your home. Solar energy systems are here to stay, and you might as well jump on the bandwagon because it’s a system that pays for itself.

Read Also:

Mashum Mollah is the feature writer of Search Engine Magazine and an SEO Analyst at Real Wealth Business. Over the last 3 years, He has successfully developed and implemented online marketing, SEO, and conversion campaigns for 50+ businesses of all sizes. He is the co-founder of Social Media Magazine.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

solar-panels-943999_1920

The Essential Factors You Need to Consider when Installing Solar Panels

Solar panel systems have taken the world by storm, and it’s not just in ‘sunny’ countries like Australia where solar panel installations have become immensely popular. In the UK, more homeowners and householders are opting for solar panels as well, and the fact that the cost of installing your own solar panel system has gone down tremendously in the last few years has contributed to its popularity. But if you are thinking of having a solar panel system installed, there are some major considerations you need to think about as well. For one, solar panel installations need to be done in the proper way and with the proper accreditation in order for you to take advantage of the government's Feed-in Tariff programme. What else do you need to consider, then? Here’s a list of the essential factors you need to consider when installing solar panels in your home. The investment: Truth be told, having a solar panel installation isn't a cheap affair. It is an investment, and it's best you know this from the start. But the good news is that the cost of a typical solar panel installation has already gone down by as much as 50% compared to the cost of a system eight years ago. But here's the thing: while it's not cheap, you are guaranteed to recover your investment over time, especially since your energy bills are going to be lower and you can even earn extra money through the Feed-in Tariff scheme. With the scheme, whatever extra energy you have that you don't use can be sold back to the grid, and you will receive payments from the government every quarter for this. The supply of energy: Your solar panel installation will still work quite well even if you are in the UK, with its inclement and unpredictable weather. Of course, the system will work best during the sunnier seasons, but it doesn’t mean that it won’t produce energy whilst it’s winter time or when it’s cloudy. But while it is still within reason for you to expect your system to generate energy, even on cloudy days, you can never really tell how much the system will produce. What you can expect, though, is that your energy bills will definitely be reduced – sometimes by as much as 40 to 50%. Where to place them: The placement of your solar panels is of utmost importance as well, so you also have to consider this, as confirmed by the specialists in solar in Manchester from Atlantic Renewables. Whilst your solar panels don't require direct sunlight to work, they will have to be installed by a professional, preferably one who is accredited by the MCS (this is so you can get your Feed-in Tariff). The location of the solar panels matter, and so does the angle of placement. Make sure other buildings or structures or trees don't overshadow your roof; but if this is the case, you have the option to install your solar panels on the ground as well. Read Also: Prepare Your Solar Panels For The Fall Everything You Need To Know About Portable Solar Power

READ MOREDetails
Get Greener

What Surprising Industry Is Helping Canada Get Greener?

It may be surprising, but the Canadian chemical industry has been working to reduce its environmental impact for decades. Certain companies have invested in products that are designed to make the world a safer, cleaner and greener space. If you want to learn how they have been accomplishing these goals, you should read the explanation below. Many chemical companies in Canada have demonstrated their commitment to reducing environmental harm. According to research from the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada, the country’s chemical industry decreased its greenhouse gas emissions by sixty-seven percent in the early 1990s. The industry continues to execute positive changes to limit any negative environmental impacts by tracking their emissions, upgrading equipment like boilers and heaters, updating their processes, and using new plants and technologies. There is one industry-leading chemical company that has gone beyond that call to action and invested in more efforts that will create a cleaner environment, promote greener products and counteract the effects of climate change. Terms: Meanings: Green Chemistry The field of finding more eco-friendly and safe chemical alternatives to products being used. GHG Greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide creates a barrier around the world and trap heat inside, making the planet warmer. Clean Energy The energy that does not create greenhouse gas emissions or pollution when used. Sustainability Prioritizing resources that won’t be permanently deleted or damaged.   That impressive company is CCC Chemicals, which is one of the largest independent distributors in Canada. They have sourced a range of green chemistry products from innovative suppliers, so that their portfolio is filled with biodegradable solutions, ethylate replacements, vegetable-based raw materials and safer alternatives to hazardous substances. They also source and carry chemical products dedicated to environmental remediation, which means making contaminated sites clean and secure through a laborious process. The company invests in these remediation chemicals and green substitutes in order to help manufacturers and businesses commit to environmental solutions. Canada has shown increasing interest in setting environmental goals and reaching them in the near future. The government signed on to the 2015 Paris Agreement with countries across the world, vowing to reduce the consequences of climate change together — the key points of the agreement included openly publishing greenhouse gas emissions and planning for a future that is carbon neutral. They also began the Greening Government Strategy to encourage the country’s representatives to lead by example and create a space that focuses on clean energy, sustainable products, and low-impact activities. On a smaller scale, average citizens are purchasing more sustainable and green products to use in their daily lives. It’s evident that the entire country is ambitious to establish a healthier environment as soon as possible. While innovative chemical companies are not the only solution leading towards a healthier environment, they are certainly an important factor in helping Canadians reach their objectives. Aspects like green chemistry and environmental remediation will be invaluable tools that the country will need to make their vision of a better future a reality.

READ MOREDetails
Vegetarian Diet

9 Magical Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet

No matter whether you don’t include meat into your diet because of ethics or you just don’t tolerate it, you follow a vegetarian diet. It’s highly beneficial if handled properly – with enough protein, healthy fats, carbs, and vital vitamins. If all the rules are followed, you’ll gain at least 9 benefits. Mood Improvement A vegetarian diet is usually not rich with arachidonic acid, which is found in animal products. It was discovered that this acid and mood swings are deeply connected, so the less of it you include into your diet, the better your mood becomes. Psoriasis Treatment Psoriasis is a serious problem for many people, as it affects the skin, making it red and irritated. It was noticed that the symptoms of psoriasis improved greatly in people who gave up on meat. Diabetes Symptoms Reduction Most vegetarian diets improve the health condition of people who have been affected by diabetes. Moreover, this kind of diets reduces the possibility of being affected by the condition. Eating legumes, like black beans , will greatly help in this case. Cataract Risk Reduction There’s a strong connection between what you eat and different diseases, including cataracts. It was noticed that people who don’t include meat in their diet have a lower risk of being affected by the disease in old age. Cholesterol Level Lowering A vegetarian diet helps lower cholesterol levels, mostly because of the absence of saturated fats. However, it’s important to include unsaturated fats that are stored in nuts, seeds, and legumes. To be sure you eat organic sources of unsaturated fat, but them at organic shops like FoodToLive.com. You’ll find many products you need in your diet, along with detailed descriptions of the contents of each product. You won’t have troubles with cholesterol in case you eat organic sources of fats and vitamins. Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Vegetarians eat lots of products high in vitamins and antioxidants. It means their bodies are cleaner, and most diseases don’t affect them. Cardiovascular disease is one of those, so if you follow a vegetarian diet, you won’t get atherosclerosis and your heart will be healthier. Obesity Prevention Vegetarians not only eat better food, but they also choose it more thoroughly, which eliminates the possibility of binge eating. It most often leads to rapid weight gain and obesity. Besides, plant-based foods are usually low in calories and high in nutrients, which contributes to your slim and healthy body. Read also: Tips to Lose Weight Naturally Kidney Stones Prevention Giving up on meat and switching to fresh plant-based foods will help you maintain a healthy urine pH. This is one of the main points of kidney stones prevention, as low pH leads to their formation. Nutritional Norms Following It was proved many times that a healthy vegetarian diet meets all nutritional requirements for any person of any age or way of life. Athletes get necessary proteins, infants get vital vitamins, and elderly get all nutrients necessary to support their bodies for longer. If you still think that vegetarians have a poor diet and they are always hungry only because they excluded meat from their meals, consider this question once more after looking at all the benefits of a vegetarian diet! References: globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/9-health-benefits-of-a-vegetarian-diet/

READ MOREDetails