The advantages of lead‐acid battery for off‐grid design

Abstract

AbstractThis study assesses the viability of employing a hybrid system that combines wind and tidal turbines, connected to a microgrid, to provide electricity to coastal communities that are geographically isolated from the primary power grid. The specific focus of this research is the case study of Stewart Island, where the cost of electricity from a centralized diesel power station is comparatively higher than that of the main grid in New Zealand. While lithium‐ion batteries are generally regarded as more reliable and efficient than lead‐acid batteries, the analysis conducted indicates that, for the off‐grid storage system in Oban, lead‐acid batteries are the preferable choice. Multiple off‐grid configurations are simulated utilizing the HOMER Pro software. While lithium‐ion batteries demonstrate higher charge power and renewable fraction, it is found that lead‐acid batteries, with their longer battery life, offer advantages such as reduced fuel consumption, lower cost of electricity, discounted payback, and increased power production. The annual fuel consumption for lead‐acid battery is 867 L less compared to the lithium‐ion battery. Power generated in this case is 6780 kWh more and COE with lead‐acid battery is $0.213 in compared with lithium‐ion of $0.217. These findings suggest that for the specific context of the Oban off‐grid system, lead‐acid batteries outperform lithium‐ion batteries.