2024 Best Batteries for Solar Power Storage

As global adoption of renewable energy sources gains traction, solar power stands out for its pivotal role in curbing carbon emissions and delivering viable energy solutions. One of the critical components of solar energy systems is the batteries for solar power storage, which store excess energy produced by solar panels. This energy can be stored and utilized when there is limited solar energy available, such as during cloudy weather, at night, or when there is a peak in electricity demand. In 2024, advancements in battery technology have revolutionized the market, making storing solar energy easier and more efficient. In this article, we will explore the best options for solar power storage, key companies dominating the industry, and important factors to consider when choosing batteries for solar power storage.

Market Overview of Batteries for Solar Power Storage

In 2024, the demand for batteries for solar power storage has surged, driven by the growing need for reliable, efficient, and scalable storage solutions. According to InfoLink Consulting, the global storage battery market reached an impressive 114.5 GWh in the first half of 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 33.6%. Large-scale storage solutions accounted for 101.9 GWh, while small-scale systems, including telecommunications, contributed 12.6 GWh. The significant growth we’re seeing indicates a rising embrace of solar energy in commercial and residential applications. It also emphasizes your contribution to the worldwide shift towards a more sustainable future.

Companies like CATL, BYD, and EVE Energy are leading the charge in this growing market, and they have consistently ranked among the top global producers of batteries for solar power storage. In 2024, Chinese companies dominated the market, accounting for 91% of the total global storage battery shipments. Among the top 10 companies, only Samsung SDI, a South Korean firm, made the list outside of China, further illustrating the dominance of Chinese manufacturers in the energy storage industry.

In addition, large-capacity storage batteries, specifically those with 300 Ah or more capacities, have gained significant market share. By mid-2024, 300 Ah+ storage batteries represented nearly 30% of the large-scale storage market, and this figure is expected to grow. As businesses focus on cost reduction and operational efficiency, high-capacity batteries are fast superseding older models like the 280 Ah batteries, becoming the new industry standard.

Given the increasing demand for effective energy storage options, it is imperative to analyze the foremost battery manufacturers and their impact on the market for solar power storage batteries.

Table of Energy Storage Battery Cell Shipment Ranking

	H1 2024	2023
1	CATL	CATL
2	EVE Energy	BYD
3	REPT BATTERO	EVE Energy
4	Hithium	REPT BATTERO
5	BYD	Hithium
6	CALB	Samsung SDI
7	Gotion High-Tech	Gotion High-Tech
8	Samsung SDI	LG Energy Solution
9	Envision AESC	Great Power
10	Great Power	CALB

11 Leading Lithium Ion Battery Makers in 2024

The following section will introduce the top 11 companies making strides in producing the best batteries for solar power storage. Each company has unique strengths and innovations that contribute to the rapid growth of the solar storage market.

CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited)

Established in 2011 and based in Ningde, China, CATL is a prominent worldwide provider of lithium-ion batteries, focusing on electric vehicle and energy storage system applications. In 2024, CATL continued its dominance in the global battery market, securing a 40% share of the worldwide energy storage battery market. The company offers many products, including battery cells, cabinets, and storage containers. These products are tailored to optimize the efficacy of solar energy applications throughout the complete cycle of generation, transmission, and distribution. CATL’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its production processes, prioritizing environmental responsibility and resource efficiency.

One of CATL’s key innovations is its high-capacity storage batteries, which are known for their long lifespan, high safety standards, and broad temperature adaptability. These features make CATL’s batteries ideal for commercial and residential solar power storage systems. CATL also offers a competitive warranty, ensuring your investment is protected for years.

EVE Energy

Founded in 2001 and based in Huizhou, China, EVE Energy has become one of the most competitive companies in the battery market. Specializing in consumer and power batteries, EVE Energy plays a key role in the batteries for solar power storage sector. The company’s 2024 storage battery shipments reached 26.29 GWh, securing a place among the top three global storage battery producers.

EVE Energy’s batteries are renowned for their versatility and use in various applications, including home energy storage, communication systems, and industrial storage. The company is dedicated to continuous research and development endeavors focused on improving its energy storage solutions’ effectiveness, longevity, and safety characteristics.

REPT BATTERO

Founded in 2017, REPT BATTERO is a rapidly growing player in the solar energy storage space. Backed by its parent company, Qingshan Industry, REPT BATTERO has quickly climbed the ranks in the global battery market. By 2022, the company ranked third in storage battery shipments and is poised to increase its share further in 2024.

REPT BATTERO is focused on producing high-performance batteries for solar power storage, with a particular emphasis on large-scale applications. The company’s advanced lithium-ion battery technology is designed for long life cycles and efficient energy storage, making it a preferred choice for utility-scale solar projects.

Hithium

Founded in 2019, Hithium manufactures high-quality stationary storage products for utility-scale, commercial, and industrial applications. Known for its innovative approach to improving battery safety and extending lifecycles, Hithium has quickly established itself as a key player in the batteries for solar power storage market.

Hithium’s flagship product, the 300 Ah battery, is one of the most durable options on the market, boasting a cycle life of over 12,000 cycles. The company also focuses on minimizing battery degradation, with a unique technology that ensures less than 2% degradation over the first 1,000 cycles.

BYD (Build Your Dreams)

BYD, established in 1995 and headquartered in Shenzhen, China, has evolved into one of the largest and most diversified energy storage companies globally. Recognized for its pioneering work in electric vehicles, BYD has emerged as a major player in the solar energy storage sector by providing an extensive selection of lithium-ion batteries. Recognized primarily for its electric vehicle innovations, BYD has made substantial advancements in the solar energy storage sector by providing a diverse selection of high-performance lithium-ion batteries. In 2023, BYD achieved an impressive battery shipment volume of 89.8 GWh, driven by its commitment to developing sustainable and high-efficiency energy storage solutions.

One of BYD’s standout products is the Blade Battery, a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery that offers improved safety and longevity compared to traditional battery types. This technology, known for being nickel—and cobalt-free, provides an ideal solution for batteries for solar power storage. The Blade Battery has been widely adopted for solar applications, especially in large-scale installations and off-grid systems.

BYD also offers comprehensive energy storage solutions integrating solar power generation and storage, making it a trusted provider for commercial and residential projects. With a strong presence in markets like the United States, Germany, and Australia, BYD is leading the charge in the global solar storage revolution.

CALB (China Aviation Lithium Battery Technology)

CALB, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Luoyang, China, is a major player in the lithium battery industry. It focuses on electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems. CALB has made significant strides in batteries for solar power storage, with a particular focus on large-scale applications and utility projects.

In 2024, CALB’s energy storage business increased, with the company providing batteries for the world’s most significant energy storage projects. The lithium-ion batteries are renowned for their exceptional energy density, extended cycle life, and robust performance in challenging temperature conditions. These features make CALB batteries a strong choice for solar power storage, particularly in areas with variable weather conditions.

CALB’s innovation in battery management systems (BMS) has further strengthened its position in the market, ensuring that its products deliver optimal performance and safety. Its BMS technology allows for better monitoring, control, and efficiency, which is crucial for solar storage applications.

Gotion High-Tech

Founded in 2006, Gotion High-Tech is another top Chinese battery manufacturer focusing on electric vehicles and energy storage. Gotion has a strong presence in the global market, with research and development centers in China, the United States, Japan, and Germany. The company is known for producing reliable, cost-effective batteries for solar power storage, including lithium iron phosphate and ternary lithium batteries.

Gotion’s batteries are highly regarded for their durability and energy efficiency. Their energy storage solutions are commonly used in solar power projects, especially for commercial and industrial applications. In 2024, Gotion expanded its production capacity, further solidifying its position as one of the leading suppliers in the energy storage market.

Gotion High-Tech also actively participates in developing next-generation battery technologies, including high-energy-density batteries and advanced safety systems. Their dedication to innovating new technologies positions them as leaders in the quickly evolving solar storage sector.

Samsung SDI

Samsung SDI, a subsidiary of the Samsung Group, is a global leader in lithium ion battery technology. Although primarily known for its contributions to the consumer electronics and electric vehicle sectors, Samsung SDI has also been at the forefront of the batteries for solar power storage market. With decades of experience in battery manufacturing, Samsung SDI offers high-performance energy storage systems catering to residential and utility-scale solar projects.

Samsung SDI’s energy storage products are recognized for their high efficiency, long life cycles, and advanced safety features. In particular, their lithium-ion batteries are designed to perform well in demanding environments, making them ideal for solar power applications. Samsung SDI also integrates cutting-edge battery management systems to optimize energy usage and storage, ensuring maximum efficiency for solar installations.

In recent years, Samsung SDI has prioritized increasing its footprint in the renewable energy industry, particularly in the field of solar power generation. Their global manufacturing capabilities and strong research and development efforts position them as a key player in the solar storage market.

Envision AESC

Envision AESC, formerly known as AESC (Automotive Energy Supply Corporation), was founded in 2007 and acquired by the Envision Group in 2019. The company has demonstrated exceptional expertise in manufacturing high-performance batteries designed for electric vehicles and energy storage applications, supported by a strong and proven track record. Envision AESC has operational facilities in several countries, including China, the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom. The company has established a prominent position in the solar power storage battery industry.

Envision AESC’s lithium-ion batteries are utilized in both commercial and residential solar energy storage systems. The high energy density and extended cycle life of these batteries make them well-suited for large-scale solar installations. In 2024, the company emphasized augmenting its production capability to satisfy the escalating need for solar storage solutions, specifically focusing on Europe and the United States.

Envision AESC’s batteries’ unique selling points are their robust safety features. The company employs advanced safety technologies to prevent overheating, short-circuiting, and other issues that could compromise battery performance. These features make Envision AESC batteries reliable for solar storage, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions.

Great Power

Established in 2001, Great Power is one of China’s most diversified battery manufacturers, producing a wide range of batteries for consumer electronics and large-scale energy storage applications. In recent years, Great Power has made significant investments in the solar energy storage market, focusing on developing the best batteries for solar power storage that offer high energy density and long service life.

Great Power’s storage solutions are widely used in commercial and industrial solar projects. The company is known for producing lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, which are gaining popularity due to their environmental friendliness and high efficiency. In 2024, Great Power introduced new high-capacity energy storage products designed specifically for solar applications, further boosting its presence in the global market.

Their sodium-ion batteries, particularly, are a promising alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, as they offer better recyclability and are more resistant to extreme temperatures. This innovation positions Great Power as a forward-thinking player in the solar energy storage industry.

MANLY Battery

MANLY Battery, founded over a decade ago, is one of China’s leading battery manufacturers. It specializes in batteries for solar power storage and other energy applications. The company has built a reputation for providing high-quality lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, which are known for their safety, efficiency, and long lifespan.

In 2024, MANLY Battery continued expanding its presence in commercial and residential solar storage markets. Their highly customizable products allow clients to tailor battery capacity, voltage, and design to meet specific needs. MANLY Battery also offers a range of certifications, including UL, CE, and UN38.3, ensuring that their products meet global safety and quality standards.

One of MANLY Battery’s key strengths is its focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. The company provides a 10-year warranty on all its energy storage products, giving consumers peace of mind when investing in solar power storage solutions. Due to its unwavering commitment to safety and performance, MANLY Battery has become a reputable leader in the renewable energy sector.

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How to Choose the Best Batteries for Solar Power Storage

Selecting the suitable batteries for solar power storage is a critical factor in optimizing the performance and lifespan of your solar energy system. Given the variety of battery options, comprehending their distinctive characteristics and how they correspond to your energy requirements is vital for making a well-informed choice. In this section, we’ll cover the most important factors to consider when choosing the best batteries for solar power storage, including battery capacity, lifespan, efficiency, and cost. Additionally, we’ll explore how technological advancements, such as lithium-ion and flow batteries, have reshaped the solar storage landscape.

Battery Capacity

The first factor to consider is battery capacity, which refers to how much energy a battery can store. Capacity is usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or amp-hours (Ah). Be sure to select a battery with sufficient capacity to fulfill your home or business’s energy requirements when solar panels are not generating power, such as during low-light conditions or at night.

Batteries with a capacity of 10 kWh to 15 kWh are common for residential solar energy systems, but larger systems, especially for commercial or industrial use, may require capacities that exceed 100 kWh. A battery’s capacity directly impacts how long it can power your home or business before recharging.

When evaluating battery capacity, it’s essential to account for peak power usage. A 100-amp-hour battery theoretically provides 1 amp of current for 100 hours or 10 amps for 10 hours. However, it’s crucial to consider how much energy you typically use to ensure your battery can store and deliver enough power to meet your needs.

Battery Lifespan and Cycles

Battery lifespan is another critical factor when choosing the best batteries for solar power storage. Battery lifespan is commonly quantified in terms of charge and discharge cycles. A single cycle is completed each time the battery undergoes a full charge and discharge. The more cycles a battery can undergo before its performance starts to degrade, the longer its lifespan will be.

Different battery technologies have different lifespans. For example:

• Lead-acid batteries: These traditional batteries are known for their affordability but tend to have shorter lifespans, usually lasting between 300 to 700 cycles.
• Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion technology, such as that used in Tesla Powerwall or BYD Blade Batteries, offers much longer lifespans. Lithium-ion batteries typically last between 4,000 to 6,000 cycles, with some lasting up to 15 years.
• Flow batteries: This newer technology, such as iron flow batteries, boasts an even longer lifespan, with some models offering over 10,000 cycles with minimal efficiency loss.

Lithium-ion batteries have become the most popular choice for solar energy storage because of their long lifespan, high energy density, and ability to handle frequent charge and discharge cycles. If you’re looking for the best solar power storage batteries, lithium-ion batteries provide an ideal balance between cost, longevity, and performance.

Depth of Discharge (DoD)

Depth of Discharge (DoD) is a metric that quantifies the proportion of a battery’s energy discharged relative to its total capacity before recharging. For example, if a battery has a 90% DoD, you can use 90% of its total capacity before it needs to be charged again. A higher DoD is generally preferable, as it allows you to use more of the battery’s stored energy before recharging.

Different battery types offer varying DoD levels:

• Lead-acid batteries: These typically have a lower DoD, around 50% to 60%. This means you can only use half of the battery’s capacity before recharging, which can limit its efficiency.
• Lithium-ion batteries: Known for their higher DoD, lithium-ion batteries often have a DoD of 80% to 90%. This allows you to use a more significant portion of the battery’s capacity, making them more efficient for solar storage systems.
• Flow batteries: Flow batteries also offer a high DoD, sometimes reaching 100%, making them an attractive option for large-scale solar power storage.

When choosing a battery for solar energy storage, it’s important to consider the DoD to ensure you can maximize the battery’s usable capacity without causing it to degrade too quickly.

Round-trip Efficiency

The round-trip efficiency quantifies the proportion of energy outputted by a battery about the energy initially inputted into it. It is expressed as a percentage and quantifies the effectiveness of the energy storage system in capturing and releasing energy. For example, if you input 100 kWh of energy into a battery and it outputs 90 kWh, the round-trip efficiency would be 90%.

Achieving a higher round-trip efficiency indicates reduced energy loss during the storage process, resulting in improved cost-effectiveness of the battery over its operational lifespan. Here’s a breakdown of the round-trip efficiency of common battery types:

• Lead-acid batteries: The approximate round-trip efficiency ranges from 70% to 85%.
• Lithium-ion batteries: Offer a higher round-trip efficiency, usually from 90% to 95%. This makes them more economical for solar power storage over the long term.
• Flow batteries: Flow batteries also have high round-trip efficiency, usually around 85% to 90%.

For those looking to optimize their solar power storage system, choosing a battery with high round-trip efficiency is essential, as it directly impacts how much usable energy you get from the solar power you generate.

Battery Cost and Incentives

Cost is always a factor when investing in solar power storage, but balancing the initial cost with the long-term benefits is important. Solar batteries can range in price from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the technology, capacity, and installation costs. The significant cost savings from reduced electricity consumption and the availability of potential incentives render them a financially sound investment for numerous homeowners and businesses in the long run.

In the U.S., the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows for a 30% tax credit on solar installations, including battery storage, through 2032. This tax credit can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing batteries for solar power storage. In addition to federal incentives, many states and local utilities offer rebates or incentives for solar battery installations, lowering costs.

When choosing a battery, it’s essential to calculate the return on investment (ROI), factoring in incentives, long-term savings on energy bills, and potential increases in property value. Although lithium-ion batteries entail a higher initial investment than lead-acid batteries, their extended lifespan, superior efficiency, and reduced maintenance needs render them a more financially viable option in the long term.

Temperature and Environmental Considerations

Remember the following information: Batteries are susceptible to temperature variations, and both high and low temperatures can influence their efficiency and longevity. Selecting a battery optimized for specific climatic conditions is crucial. In particular, lithium-ion batteries demonstrate peak performance within a temperature range of -20°C to 75°C (-4°F to 167°F), rendering them appropriate for diverse environmental settings.

For those residing in areas with extreme weather patterns, like extremely high or low temperatures, opting for a battery equipped with integrated temperature management systems or storing it in a controlled environment to maintain its performance and lifespan is crucial. If you reside in a geographic area characterized by severe weather patterns, including exceptionally high or low temperatures. In that case, you must consider a battery with built-in temperature management systems or place your battery in a climate-controlled environment. Flow batteries, for example, do not heat up during use, making them a good option for areas with extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

Choosing the most suitable batteries for solar power storage is a critical decision that significantly impacts the efficiency, reliability, and long-term costs of your solar energy system. Whether you’re considering lithium-ion, lead-acid, or flow batteries, it’s important to weigh factors such as battery capacity, lifespan, depth of discharge, efficiency, and cost.

In 2024, lithium-ion batteries remain the most popular option for solar storage due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and efficiency. However, advancements in flow battery technology and the availability of other innovative solutions are providing new opportunities for solar energy storage at both residential and commercial levels.

By carefully evaluating your energy needs and considering the options available, you can select the right battery to maximize the potential of your solar power system and reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources.