Lithium Battery for Solar street lights are becoming more and more main stream solution. We all know that lithium batteries are still very expensive considering other types, but it is fair to say that they became much more affordable for solar street light integration. In last 6 years the cost of lithium battery dropped by almost 80%. There are different types of lithium batteries that can be used for Solar Street Light systems. Our experience showed that definitely the best solution is the LiFePO4 battery.
The advantages of Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery (LiFePO4) battery for Solar Street Light:
Deep cycle life: To reliably power a street light, a battery bank must charge in the few hours of intense sunlight and discharge throughout the evening and night. So, deep-cycle batteries are necessary and LiFePO4 batteries performs 3000 cycles (@100%DOD) whereas VRLA batteries can only perform 300-800 cycles(@100%DOD).
Long service life: LiFePO4 battery packs, are widely used in the solar street light which has longer service life (more than 5years) than lead-acid battery (less than 3years, even less than 1year).
High temperature sustainability: Lithium batteries can also withstand a wider temperature range than VRLA batteries. VRLA battery life is reduced by 50% for every 10°C (°F) increase above 25°C (77° F) ambient temperature whereas in case of LiFePO4 battery it only reduces 10-20%.
Safety: The LiFePO4 battery is in-built. It is fixed inside the LED far up the pole which makes it impossible for thieves to steal.
Easy installation: The solar panel and LED lights were connected to Lead Acid batteries with the help of a long cable which made the installation process complicated. Whereas in the case of lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, these losses are greatly reduced due to the battery being in close proximity of LED lights and solar panels.
Maintenance Free: Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries do not need water-topping! They are non-aqueous, light in weight, long lasting. Plug and forget.
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