Battery backup systems, when used at all, are generally added to small scale PV residential installations in rural or remote locations.  The batteries are tied into critical loads for use in the event of a blackout.  Commercial grid-tie battery backup systems are not cost effective, efficient solutions for backup or auxiliary power due to the factors listed below.

Adds over 100% of the PV installation cost over the first 20 years of service.  Even well maintained battery systems need full replacement every 5 years.  Although they may last up to 8 years, be conservative when estimating system costs.  Battery backup systems will add well over 20% to the initial installation costs for batteries, charge controllers and properly configured storage areas.  Battery replacement costs of 20% are incurred every 5 years.

Additional costs for maintenance.  Marine grade batteries are generally used for PV systems.  They are highly corrosive and require experienced handling, storage and maintenance. Additionally, like a computer data center which needs a dedicated cooling system,  batteries must be stored in a secure, ventilated and freeze protected area.  Ongoing energy costs are incurred to maintain proper environmental conditions.

Batteries lower overall system efficiency.  In grid-tie battery backup systems the PV array only passes AC power to the on-site load or the utility company after the system deems the batteries to be fully charged.  In effect, the system focuses on storing generated electricity in the batteries where it may rarely or never be used.  This lowers the overall efficiency of the system.

For backup or auxiliary power in commercial applications, Atlantech Solar recommends a commercial grade natural gas or propane fired generator.

By: Rick Contrata

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