1. What is this item?
A Power Bank / Storage System is a battery-based energy storage solution that stores excess electricity generated from various sources like solar panels, wind turbines, or the grid. This energy can be used later during periods of low generation (e.g., at night for solar) or during power outages. The system typically includes a battery bank, inverter, and charge controller to regulate and store energy efficiently.
The Inverter is an essential component as it converts DC (direct current) from the storage system into AC (alternating current), which is suitable for most farm equipment and household appliances.
2. How is the Quantity Estimated?
• Energy Demand Calculation: Assess the daily energy requirements of the farm (in kWh). This could include irrigation systems, lighting, processing units, and residential energy use.
• Battery Storage Capacity: Estimate the amount of backup power needed in case of grid failure or low renewable generation periods (e.g., cloudy days for solar or calm days for wind).
o Example: A farm uses 30 kWh/day. If you need 2 days of backup power, the storage capacity required would be 60 kWh.
• Inverter Rating: The inverter should be rated to handle the peak power demand of the farm at any given time. For example, if the peak demand is 10 kW, the inverter should be rated for at least 10 kW.
• System Sizing: Total storage should be based on the required backup duration and the farm’s energy consumption pattern.
3. What are the Cost Components?
• Battery Bank: The primary component that stores energy. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used for long life and efficient energy storage, though lead-acid batteries are more economical but have a shorter lifespan.
• Inverter: Converts stored energy (DC) to usable power (AC).
• Charge Controller: Ensures the batteries are charged properly without overcharging, extending their lifespan.
• Cabling & Distribution: Wiring for connecting the system components and distribution to various loads.
• Monitoring System: Often included in modern systems, this allows for real-time monitoring of energy usage, storage levels, and system performance.
• Installation: Labor and other installation costs, including setup of electrical infrastructure and integration with existing farm systems.
• Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance and monitoring of battery health, inverter performance, and charge cycles.
4. What are the Going Rates & Per Unit Cost?
• Battery Storage (Lithium-ion):
o ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per kWh
o Example: For a 60 kWh system, the cost would be ₹3.6 lakh to ₹6 lakh
• Battery Storage (Lead-acid):
o ₹3,500 to ₹6,000 per kWh
o Example: For a 60 kWh system, the cost would be ₹2.1 lakh to ₹3.6 lakh
• Inverter (Rated for 10 kW):
o ₹80,000 to ₹1.5 lakh depending on brand and features
• Charge Controller:
o ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 based on system size and complexity
• Cabling & Distribution:
o ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 depending on farm layout
• Installation:
o ₹20,000 to ₹1 lakh for labor and setup
• Maintenance (Annual):
o ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 for minor repairs, battery replacements, or system checks
Example Cost Breakdown:
For a 60 kWh battery storage system with 10 kW inverter:
• Battery Bank (Lithium-ion): ₹4.5 lakh
• Inverter: ₹1.2 lakh
• Charge Controller: ₹30,000
• Cabling & Distribution: ₹20,000
• Installation: ₹40,000
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹6.1 lakh
Energy Usage Example:
• Daily Energy Use: 30 kWh
• Backup Duration: 2 days
• Total Storage Required: 60 kWh
• System Cost: ₹6.1 lakh (Lithium-ion based)
• Annual Savings: Reduced reliance on grid power or generator during peak hours or power outages, leading to significant savings in operational costs, especially if grid power rates are high.
This Power Bank / Storage System allows for self-sufficiency, especially in areas with unreliable or intermittent grid power, while providing a backup during emergencies. It's a crucial component in making a farm more energy-efficient and resilient.
