Battery storage is becoming an increasingly popular addition to solar energy systems. Two of the most common battery chemistry types are lithium-ion and lead acid. As their names imply, lithium-ion batteries are made with the metal lithium, while lead-acid batteries are made with lead. How do lithium-ion and lead acid batteries work?
A lead acid battery system may cost hundreds or thousands of dollars less than a similarly-sized lithium-ion setup - lithium-ion batteries currently cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 including installation, and this range can go higher or lower depending on the size of system you need.
Cost and Maintenance: While Lead-acid batteries are more affordable upfront and have a proven track record, they require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries, though more expensive initially, offer reduced long-term costs due to lower maintenance needs and longer operational life.
Lead acid batteries comprise lead plates immersed in an electrolyte sulfuric acid solution. The battery consists of multiple cells containing positive and negative plates. Lead and lead dioxide compose these plates, reacting with the electrolyte to generate electrical energy. Advantages:
Lead-acid batteries are generally less expensive upfront compared to lithium-ion batteries. For example, a typical lead-acid battery might cost around $100-$200 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) capacity. In contrast, a lithium-ion battery could range from $300 to $500 per kWh. Battery Capacity:
Disadvantages: Heavy and bulky: Lead acid batteries are heavy and take up significant space, which can be a limitation in specific applications. Limited energy density: They have a lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries, resulting in a lower capacity and shorter runtime.