Why locally manufactured lithium solar batteries are a better option to buy than imported lithium batteries
Many new lithium battery companies are emerging in South Africa, driven by the soaring demand for lithium batteries in load-shedding and off-grid solar applications. As a result, the variety and availability of lithium batteries, especially 48V models, are skyrocketing. However, this variety has led to a wide range in prices and quality.
Imported batteries, although diverse, often present quality issues and challenges in obtaining support, as reported by our installers. In contrast, choosing locally manufactured lithium batteries offers several benefits over cheaper imports:
- Improved Quality Control: Local manufacturers implement stringent quality checks, ensuring higher reliability.
- Faster Shipping: Purchasing locally significantly reduces shipping times.
- Better Aftersales Support: Local companies offer more accessible and efficient customer service.
- Economic Benefits: Buying locally supports the South African economy and creates job opportunities.
- Preference for LiFePO4: Local manufacturers often favor LiFePO4 cells, which have distinct advantages over Lithium Ion batteries.
These factors make locally manufactured lithium batteries a superior choice in the South African market
Advantages of LiFePO4 vs Lithium Ion
- Improved safety
- Longer cycle life – Better return on investment
- Better operating temperature range
What can I power with my 5kW inverter and lithium solar battery?
In South Africa, starting with a 5kW inverter is common for most households, considering potential future expansion. This strategy enables the addition of an extra 5kW inverter, provided it’s from the same brand and has compatible firmware. For those beginning with a 5kW solar inverter, our top recommendation is to choose a high-quality brand like Sunsynk, Deye, or Victron. While these brands are more expensive, their long-term return on investment justifies the cost. They ensure that crucial appliances such as alarms, lights, security cameras, and fridges maintain power.
During higher levels of load shedding, it becomes essential for many to keep their fridges running to avoid food spoilage. A 5kW inverter can comfortably power several key household items:
- LED lighting for all lights.
- Your TV, decoder, and sound system.
- The water pressure pump.
- Even a kettle can run efficiently on this setup.
Battery Sizing
For most people in South Africa, starting with a 5kW inverter and 5kWh or larger Lithium battery works perfectly! It really depends on the base load of your home. You can calculate it by recording the amount of units (kWh) consumed over the time period of 2 to 4 hours, depending on your needs. This measurement should be done with major appliances like geysers switched off. By taking a photo of your meter reading at the start and at the end of the time period, subtracting the 2 values from each other, you can divide the number of units (kWh) consumed by the number of hours. This will give you the base load of the site.
When the base load is known, multiply it by the amount of hours that you want to be covered and this will give you a rough estimate of your lithium battery size for your house backup / solar system. If you want a quick battery size calculation you can use our battery calculator!
If you consume 4-5kWh during the time of load shedding that you plan for, a minimum of 6kWh 48V Lithium Battery will be required. If you consume between 5-8kWh, then a 10kWh or larger 48V Lithium Battery will work for you.
We have found that the best way for clients to record this is to take a photo at the beginning and at the end of the planned timeslot with the realistic loads connected.