The month of June begins with news that the population would not like to hear – the energy bill will be more expensive, since ANEEL (National Electric Energy Agency) announced the red flag tariff starting this month. In this sense, an alternative to reduce the amount paid on the bill and put an end to the inconveniences and losses caused by the lack of energy is the desire of a large part of the population.
This scenario becomes possible with a hybrid system, which combines photovoltaic s with energy storage. However, for this solution to be truly efficient and meet expectations, it is essential to pay attention to some factors, ranging from the choice of manufacturers to the installation of the equipment.
Electrical engineer Dieny Melo explains that battery systems have the TOU (Time of Use) function – very useful in times like these, when the vehicle is subject to red flag taxation. Through this feature, the person chooses how they will use their hybrid system.
“With this function, it is possible to program the system for high consumption and, through the photovoltaic modules, charge the battery during the day. At the end of the day, when the sunny period ends, it is possible to perform self-consumption, that is, the customer's loads begin to be supplied by the battery. In this way, it is possible for the person to use the utility grid less and achieve 'energy freedom', that is, to use the grid energy as little as possible”, he explained.
She emphasizes the importance of the hybrid system as an ally during this period of higher taxes. “The battery helps to mitigate the effects of the high bill. It is a period with a lower probability of power outages, since the red flag is implemented in a drier period, that is, with less probability of rain. In this way, the batteries can reduce the effects of nighttime use of the utility grid and pay as little as possible on the energy bill.”
However, in order to achieve all these benefits, it is necessary to pay attention to some technical, economic and regulatory aspects. Engineer Marcelo Niendicker explains that the first step is to evaluate the objective that one wishes to achieve by implementing this system: reducing the energy bill, performing backup or ensuring total energy autonomy, for example.
“The next step is to size this system, that is, evaluate which s and battery systems will meet the desired needs. In the case of s, which and how many pieces of equipment will cover consumption and generate surplus for the battery and, in the case of batteries, evaluate the capacity based on hours of autonomy and power required,” he said.
Once this analysis has been carried out, it is necessary to check the economic viability, that is, the initial cost of this system compared to the savings on the energy bill. “This analysis is important to assess the payback – which is the return on investment – which must consider the objective of the system, for example, how much the person will save in a power outage”.
The engineer also points out that it is necessary to observe safety standards. It is important to confirm whether the equipment has certifications, especially from Inmetro, and a BMS (Battery Management System) system – which monitors and controls the operation of a set of batteries. “If the payback is acceptable, for example, between 5 and 7 years, and the need is clear, it is worth the investment”, advised Niendicker.
Battery for solar system: understand if it is worth installing
Tips for each type of property
It is also worth noting that the implementation of a battery system varies significantly depending on the type of installation (apartment, house, business or industry). In the case of apartments, challenges include limited space (shared roof or small balcony), condominium rules that must be observed – since they may prohibit or limit installations, and the connection to the building's electrical grid, which can be complex in shared systems.
“For this type of property, the ideal option is to opt for compact batteries and install s, if desired, on balconies or common areas, if permitted, using specialized fixing structures,” explained the engineer.
Furthermore, in the case of apartments, the ideal option would be to opt for a selective backup system, that is, one designed to supply only critical points, such as refrigerators and lighting, during power outages. It is also worth reaching an agreement with the condominium to share generation in common areas, such as elevators and lighting.
In the case of a residence, the advantages are the space for installing s and batteries and direct self-consumption, which guarantees an immediate reduction in the electricity bill. “However, it is important to evaluate whether the system will cover consumption, consider LFP batteries – known for their safety, long lifespan and high energy density – to perform backups and cover nights or power outages, and the installation of a hybrid inverter, which allows you to use both energy from the grid and from the and battery system.”
An important tip: “If the tariff is hourly, for example, red flag, which is in effect in Brazil as of this month, program the battery to discharge during peak hours”, warned the specialist.
In the case of commerce, the focus is on reducing costs with contracted demand and protection against outages. In this sense, batteries help to meet the energy demand and, if the establishment operates at night, the storage is essential. “Furthermore, in some states, companies can have tax incentives, with tax discounts.”
In the case of industry, the main challenges are high and continuous consumption due to the operation of machines and refrigeration, for example. “Therefore, for industrial establishments, it is essential to install a hybrid system, with active energy management, prioritizing sources according to cost and time, in addition to large-scale batteries, for example, containers such as the Trene and Aelio models, which are part of the portfolio of SolaX".
And the engineer warns: “In apartments and businesses, check with the dealership what the requirements are for connecting systems with batteries (some require specific projects). For industries, study the 'contracted demand' method to optimize the size of the battery.”
It is worth noting that one of the most common mistakes consumers make is choosing products based solely on the price of the product and the price of the installation. “It is important to choose solid and competent companies to design and install the system. This ensures safety for the not only at the time of installation, but also in the future, when the system presents a failure or needs to be expanded,” highlighted Marcelo Niendicker.
All precautions are essential to ensure the efficiency and safety of the system. If you choose low-quality, uncertified batteries and inverters, these devices may fail quickly or even cause damage to people and facilities, and batteries without a suitable BMS may overheat and cause accidents.
“In addition, sizing issues can lead to the mistake of purchasing a small battery, which may not provide sufficient autonomy, or a large battery, which may mean unnecessary cost,” he reported.
Another point involves installation, since errors at this stage can reduce the system's useful life and void the warranty. "If a person chooses companies without technical , they may be left without help when the system fails, as well as an inefficient system that does not generate the expected savings, prolonging the payback period."
In this sense, the engineer points out that it is important to invest in reliable brands and equipment with certifications, especially from Inmetro. It is also important to hire qualified professionals and have long-term guarantees for the equipment. “Often, a low price can mean high costs in the future. Prioritize safety and efficiency,” he concluded.
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