sonnenBatterie eco
Latest update: 22 Feb 2018
The energy storage solution sonnenBatterie eco from Sonnen GmbH uses an intelligent energy management software that adapts easily to the homeowner’s individual needs. It is available in a variety of storage capacities and configurations, ranging from a usable capacity of 4 kWh to 16 kWh (in 2 kWh steps). With its lithium-ion-phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, it offers backup power capacity for solar energy production 24 hours a day. It detects when there’s excess power and stores it for use at night. The home battery has a guaranteed lifetime of 10,000 cycles or 10 years and is available in Europe for a price of €3,599 ($3,830), including VAT. An all-in-one residential PV and storage system costs €9,999 ($10,645) in Europe and $9,900 in the United States.
I’ve definitely increased my monthly savings with the sonnen battery eco. While it’s of course not enough storage space to allow anyone to go off the grid, it’s capable of storing several hours worth of excess solar electricity, rather than sending that back to the grid. If you have already invested in a solar panel system, it only makes sense to improve your storage and make the most of the electricity you’re harvesting. Though it’s expensive to install, I would recommend the investment.
For me, the decision came down to choosing between the Sonnen Eco and the Tesla Powerwall. And while the Tesla Powerwall has greater capacity, Sonnen offers a pretty tasty guarantee of at least 70 percent of storage capacity for the duration of the 10 year warranty. For me, that was the deal breaker and I’ve been very happy with my sonnen battery.