Virtual batteries for photovoltaic self-consumption

What are virtual batteries

It is a model for using accumulated surplus energy without resorting to a #storage method. This is because, despite the name, there is no battery to which the electricity is directed. What is done is to enter into a contract with a supplier, who will keep the accounts of what is generated over a certain period of time.

In other words, the company we have selected records the amount of energy we produce and do not consume. Therefore, we get a credit balance based on the surplus, which will be deducted from the electricity bill. In practice, what we are doing is selling the surplus electricity produced by our installation to a supplier.

The company accumulates the value of the surplus as a balance in the virtual battery, also known as the solar wallet. In this way, we can achieve a 100 % reduction in our bill, as we will have generated enough energy to cover our needs. In addition, we have the ability to decide how and when the energy will be used.

Whether for the primary or secondary residence, it is possible to meet the energy costs with the same virtual battery. This gives us greater flexibility and allows us to use the electricity we generate for our own consumption wherever we want.

‍Advantages

The use of virtual batteries is one of the #new business models launched by #marketers. Given the boom in self-consumption and its particularities, companies adapt to the needs of the consumer, who receives a wide variety of advantages.

‍Sustainability

Sustainability is one of the key benefits, as virtual batteries reduce dependence on polluting energy sources. They also reduce the need to erect a complex installation that can have a harmful impact on the environment. Equally, there is no physical battery that needs to be replaced at the end of its life cycle and requires extensive waste management.

‍Saving

This is one of the main advantages we will obtain. The accumulation of the balance in our favour covers 100% of the cost of the electricity bill. Despite not having a conventional battery, we still enjoy the same autonomy as if we had one. In addition, we save on the infrastructure of the generation facility itself, which does not need a storage element.

‍Storage

We only have the limits set by the contract with the supplier, i.e. we are not subject to a physical constraint. We take advantage of the company's infrastructure, which is more efficient and professionally managed. So, we avoid a wide variety of problems, such as a mistake in the management or maintenance of the battery causing a discharge.

‍Ease of installation

Virtual batteries do not require installation, as we will only enter into a contract with a supplier. Thus, no work is going to be carried out beyond those carried out in the original renewable energy project.

‍Low investment

The investment that has to be carried out is practically nil. By not having to install a physical battery, we save that part. However, it is necessary to pay the supplier some commissions for the service it offers. For example, since it performs management tasks, it will charge a small monthly fee, which is less than the cost of an electricity tariff.

‍New business models

The existence of virtual batteries allows the emergence of #new business models for marketers. They provide a highly valuable service for energy communities or for people who are committed to self-consumption in general.

‍Self-consumption as a consolidated option

Self-consumption has established itself as a viable and beneficial option for energy consumers. With solar photovoltaic technology, they can generate their own electricity to reduce their dependence on the grid. In addition, there are several models that offer very interesting advantages.

At the same time, self-consumption contributes to the transition to a low-carbon economy, as renewable energies are harnessed in a decentralised manner. It can also provide benefits to the electricity grid by reducing demand during consumption peaks and bringing some price stability to the general public.

It should also be noted that, in many countries, government policies are supporting self-consumption through financial incentives and companies are not lagging behind with their proposals. And with the advancement of energy storage technologies and methods, self-generation is becoming even more attractive.

‍When is a virtual battery more suitable?

Whether or not we are interested in a virtual battery depends on a number of factors, the main one being our personal situation, but there are a few considerations to take into account:

If the installation generates a large surplus, a virtual battery is a suitable solution to get the most out of the energy.

Another reason for this lies in our consumption. If it is seasonal, it is worthwhile to contract the service with a supplier. This is because the surpluses do not expire, allowing us to take advantage of them at specific times.

It is also a good alternative if we have a second home, as the surplus is not linked to a specific physical location, but to the owner who produces it.

The use of #renewable energy is constantly evolving, as demonstrated by virtual batteries. Solutions like this manage to create a new business model with which to provide a very useful service. Whether to save on installation costs or to make the most of surpluses, this is an idea that should not be overlooked.