Choosing the right battery storage system for you – all you need to know

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Jan 20, 2025

Energy storage is a hot topic these days, especially in Scotland where the push for renewable energy is stronger than ever. But let’s face it, the world of energy storage can be a bit intimidating. There’s a lot to consider: What kind of storage system do you need? What’s the best choice for your home or business?

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your carbon footprint or a business owner aiming to make your operations more sustainable, this guide will provide the insights you need to make an informed decision.

What is a battery storage system, in a renewable energy setting?

To put it simply, a battery storage system is a device that allows renewable technologies (like Solar PV or wind turbines, to name but a few) to store the energy they create, so that it can be used at a time that’s most useful.

Without a battery storage system, the energy that’s generated would have to be used right away, whether it was needed or not.

Customers who are looking to integrate battery storage into their Solar PV system, will find they unlock a number of benefits, like uninterrupted power supply, increased independence from the grid, and lower energy bills. You can find out more about the benefits of battery storage and Solar PV in our dedicated blog.

How to Choose the Best Battery Storage System

There are several types of battery storage systems available, and choosing the right one for your needs can be a complex task. The most popular battery storage technologies include:

Lithium-ion batteries: Currently the most common and widely used battery storage technology, lithium-ion batteries boast a high energy density, long cycle life, and operate very efficiently. They are well-suited to residential and commercial installations due to their compact size, lightweight structure, and low maintenance requirements.

Lead acid batteries: A tried-and-tested technology, lead-acid batteries provide cost-effective energy storage solutions. However, they have a lower energy density, shorter cycle life, and require regular maintenance compared to lithium-ion batteries – which makes them a less popular choice with consumers.

Flow batteries: Flow batteries employ a unique, liquid-based energy storage method, that makes them a scalable and long-lasting energy storage option. Although typically associated with larger installations, flow batteries are increasingly being explored for residential uses.

When choosing a battery storage technology, consider factors such as space, maintenance requirements, efficiency, and budget to ensure an ideal fit for your home or business in Scotland.

Understanding the lingo

When choosing the right battery storage solution for you, you might hear a number of terms mentioned. The ones to pay attention to, are listed below:

Capacity: The capacity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), signifies the amount of energy that can be stored in the battery. You need to make sure that your chosen battery storage system has sufficient capacity to cater to your energy needs during times when solar generation is low. The best way to figure this out – is to speak to an expert – like the Ceiba Renewables team.

Depth of Discharge (DoD): DoD refers to the percentage of the battery’s total capacity that can be discharged before it requires recharging. Higher DoD values allow you to use more of the stored energy, increasing your battery’s effectiveness and extending its lifespan. A rough rule of thumb is, the higher the DoD, the better.

Round-trip efficiency: Assess the battery’s round-trip efficiency, which indicates the percentage of energy retained during the charge and discharge process. Higher efficiency values result in more stored energy available for use.

As well as assessing a battery’s performance against each of these metrics, you also need to find one that works for your budget. Remember that as well as the cost of the battery system, you’ll also have installation, permit, and warranty costs. When speaking to customers we often calculate the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for each system, which gives customers an idea of the savings available, against the cost for implementing each system. With our help, we’ll find the right one to suit your needs, that’s financially manageable for you too.

Batter storage systems really are the key to making the most of your renewable technology. And if you’re considering Solar PV – battery storage will give you higher cost savings and better energy use. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of battery storage systems in Scotland, ensuring seamless integration into your renewable energy setup. Get in touch with Ceiba Renewables today to learn more about our battery storage solutions – it all starts with a conversation, one that we’re more than happy to have.

Understanding the DNO and G99 Applications for Tesla Powerwall 3

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Oct 18, 2024

When installing a Tesla Powerwall 3 alongside a solar PV system, working with your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is essential. The DNO ensures your system complies with grid regulations, which can influence your battery settings and export limits. In Scotland, for example, the DNOs are SSE and Scottish Power. Below is an easy-to-follow guide on how DNO regulations like G98 and G99 may affect your installation.

Image 1: Electricity distribution operators

What is the G98 Regulation?

The G98 regulation allows you to connect systems with an output of up to 3.68kW (equal to 16 amps) to the grid without prior approval or fees. This limit applies to both your solar panels and battery system combined, making it a simple and cost-effective option for smaller installations, combatting climate change.

Why Does the G99 Regulation Matter?

If your solar panels and battery system together exceed 3.68kW, you’ll fall under the more complex G99 regulation. Even if your Tesla Powerwall 3 doesn’t export energy to the grid, the DNO considers it part of your generation system. For instance, if you have both a solar PV array and an AC-coupled battery system, the combined power could push you into G99 territory, requiring approval.

Power During an Outage: The Role of “Islanding”

One key feature of the Tesla Powerwall 3 is its ability to keep your home powered during an outage, known as “islanding.” However, if your Powerwall is capable of islanding, your system automatically requires a G99 application, even if your system doesn’t exceed the 3.68kW limit.

How G99 Applications Work

A G99 application is required for any system that outputs more than 3.68kW per phase to the grid. Note that this applies to the continuous output from your battery (on the AC side), not the capacity of your solar panels or battery storage. The DNO can take up to 45 working days (around 3 months) to process your G99 application and provide an Offer Letter, detailing any associated costs. Sometimes, there are no fees, but additional costs such as admin fees, testing fees, or even network upgrades may be required.

Understanding DNO Costs

DNOs interpret regulations differently, meaning costs can vary widely. Some applications are approved without any fees, while others may involve significant costs. This makes it difficult to predict the exact charges in advance. Thankfully, experienced installers like Ceiba Renewables often have good relationships with DNOs, which can help streamline the process and reduce costs, especially for witness testing.

What If G99 Costs Are Too High?

If the G99 Offer Letter is too expensive, there’s an alternative: designing the system with Export Limitation. This limits the output of your solar PV and Powerwall to 3.68kW each, which can sometimes avoid the G99 fees altogether.

The G99 Fast-Track Process

Some DNOs offer a G99 Fast-Track option for systems where both the battery and solar PV are capped at 3.68kW. This fast-track process has no fees and a quicker approval time, but its availability can vary. Crucially, the Fast-Track is not available for batteries that work during power cuts.

Choose the Right Output Setting for Tesla Powerwall 3

Option 1: Apply for the Full 11.04kW Output

One approach is to apply for the total 11.04kW output and see what the DNO says. While the DNO may impose fees or require a longer approval process, applying for the maximum output ensures that you future-proof your system for potential upgrades or increased energy needs. If approved, you can take full advantage of your Powerwall 3’s capabilities and maximize energy storage and output, especially in scenarios like energy trading or high-load usage.

Option 2: Size the Powerwall Output Based on Your Solar PV

Another strategy is to size the Tesla Powerwall 3’s output to match your solar PV output, which could make the approval process smoother and quicker. For instance, if your solar system produces around 7kW, you might choose a 7kW output setting for the Powerwall. This aligns the battery’s output with your solar generation, preventing unnecessary energy clipping and ensuring optimal energy use.

This option can also help avoid costly fees or lengthy approval processes, as the DNO may find it easier to approve a system sized to balance with the solar generation rather than maxing out at the 11.04kW setting.

Considering Solar Panel Orientation

Image 2: Best direction for Solar Panels

The orientation of your solar panels plays a key role in determining the ideal output setting. For example, if your solar panels are spread across different roof angles, the peak output might be lower than the total kWp of your system. Matching the Powerwall 3’s output to the actual power your panels are capable of generating (up to 11.04kW) ensures the system operates efficiently without overloading the grid.

Comparing Discharge and Charge Rates

With multiple output options, it’s also important to consider the impact on discharge and charge rates. For example, if your battery discharges at 11.04kW, a fully charged 13.5kWh battery will last for around 1.2 hours under heavy load (13.5kWh / 11.04kW). In contrast, a 3.68kW setting would last approximately 3.66 hours under the same conditions, offering greater endurance but slower power delivery.

Choosing the right setting depends on how you intend to use the Powerwall. If fast charging during off-peak times is a priority, higher output settings like 10kW or 11.04kW could be advantageous. However, if you’re more concerned with extending battery life during power outages, a lower setting like 3.68kW or 5kW may be more suitable.

Which Setting is Best for You?

Ultimately, the right output setting for your Tesla Powerwall 3 depends on your unique circumstances. If you have a solar system that generates 4.5kW or more, applying for the 11.04kW setting may give you the flexibility to maximize energy usage. However, if you’re concerned about DNO approval times or fees, sizing the output to your solar PV generation (for example, 6kW or 7kW) may result in faster approval and fewer complications.

As always, you can work with your installer to adjust your settings if needed, and you can even reapply with different settings based on the feedback from the DNO.

The End of an Era for Coal Power in the UK

by Filip Rasinski | Oct 2, 2024

(Image source: independent.co.uk)

UK’s Coal Energy Departure

On Monday, September 30, 2024, Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station in Nottingham ceased operations, marking a significant historical moment for the UK. After nearly 60 years of service, this is the last coal-fired power station still running in the country, and its closure signifies the UK’s complete departure from coal energy. This journey began with the Industrial Revolution.

From being a global pioneer in coal-powered electricity, the UK has now emerged as a leader in the transition away from coal power. It has become the first G7 nation to achieve this feat, a milestone reached after almost 150 years of coal use. This underscores the country’s unwavering commitment to greener energy and serves as a historic moment in the global move towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The journey began in 1882 when Thomas Edison built the world’s first coal-fired power plant in London, sparking the coal revolution. From that moment on, coal became a cornerstone of the Industrial Revolution for another 142 years, powering factories, homes, and transportation across the United Kingdom. (Molly Lempriere, 2024)

Comparison of GB Fuel type power generation production as percentages (Stolworthy, 2024) on 30th October 2024 and after the coal plant’s closure.

A Step Towards a Greener Future

Closing the last coal-fired power station in the UK is a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future. With the transition from coal power, the renewable energy industry can improve and expand in several ways. This is a historic victory for British society, particularly for climate activists, according to Daniel Therkelsen (Gagliardi, 2024). Ceiba Renewables is committed to leading Scotland’s efforts to fight climate change and promote renewable energy. With the closure of Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station, there is an opportunity to further invest in and develop renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. By expanding our renewable energy infrastructure, we can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change.

We are human and we hold the power to drive the green energy revolution forward. We can make a significant contribution by considering a switch to renewable energy sources for our homes or businesses, such as installing solar panels or choosing energy providers that offer renewable energy options. Moreover, advocating for policies that support renewable energy development and promoting sustainable practices in our communities can further accelerate this transition.

By collectively embracing renewable energy and sustainable practices, we can create a better, greener future for our children and future generations, reducing environmental impact and combatting climate change.

West Lothian, solar panel and Tesla Powerwall 2, 4.55kWp

Dumfries and Galloway, solar panels installation, 4.20 kWp

Perthshire, solar panels installation and Tesla Powerwall 2, 6 kWp

Sources

Gagliardi, M. (2024) The UK exits coal power, ushering in ERA of renewables, Beyond Fossil Fuels. Available at: https://beyondfossilfuels.org/2024/09/29/the-uk-exits-coal-power-ushering-in-era-of-renewables/ (Accessed: 02 October 2024).

Stolworthy, M. (2024) GB Fuel type power generation production as percentages, GridWatch.co.uk. Available at: https://gridwatch.co.uk/demand/percent (Accessed: 30 September 2024).

Molly Lempriere, S.E. (2024) Q&A: How the UK became the first G7 country to phase out coal power, Carbon Brief. Available at: https://interactive.carbonbrief.org/coal-phaseout-UK/ (Accessed: 02 October 2024).