Complete Guide to LiFePO4 Solar Battery

What Is A LiFePO4 Solar Battery?

Lithium iron phosphate battery (LiFePO4), also known as LFP battery, is a lithium-ion battery that uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) as the positive electrode material, carbon as the harmful electrode material, and lithium salt solution as the electrolyte.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries use LiFePO4 with an olivine structure as the battery's positive electrode, which is linked to the battery's positive electrode by aluminium foil. A polymer divider separates the positive and negative electrodes in the middle.

Lithium ions can pass through this divider, but electrons cannot. The battery's negative electrode is made of graphite and is on the right. Copper foil connects the negative electrode of the battery to the negative electrode. A liquid is between the top and bottom of the battery, which is sealed inside a metal case.  

LiFePO4 solar batteries are becoming more and more popular in solar power systems as rechargeable batteries. They are a type of lithium solar cell. LiFePO4 batteries are known for having a high energy density, a long cycle life, and excellent thermal stability.

They can be charged and used again and again. More and more people use them in solar storage, electric vehicles, and off-grid systems, among other new energy fields. Lithium-iron phosphate batteries work better overall and use less energy than lead-acid batteries. They can also be charged faster. LiFePO4 batteries are slowly taking the place of traditional lead-acid solar cells because of this.

Overall, LiFePO4 cells offer significant advantages over other solar power system cells, especially in applications where safety, longevity, and energy density are important considerations. LiFePO4 batteries are widely considered the safest type of lithium battery, lasting a decade or more. That is the reason why Jackery choose this battery cell for their Portable Power Stations.

How Does A LiFePO4 Solar Battery Work? 

When a lithium iron phosphate battery is charged, lithium ions Li+ move from the positive electrode to the negative electrode through the polymer separator.

When the battery is discharged, lithium ions Li+ move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode through the separator. It's called a lithium-ion battery because lithium ions move back and forth when charged and discharged.

The working principle of LiFePO4 solar battery also refers to the battery charging and discharging principle. When the battery is charged, lithium ions are generated on the positive electrode of the battery body, and the ions move through the electrolyte to the negative electrode.

Since the anode carbon has a layered structure, it has many micropores, and the lithium ions reaching the negative electrode are embedded in the micropores of the carbon layer. The more lithium ions embedded, the higher the battery's charge capacity.

In the same way, when the battery needs to be drained, the lithium ions stuck in the negative carbon layer are moved back to the positive electrode. Extra lithium ions return to the positive electrode more often when the discharge capacity is more significant. The discharge capacity of a LiFePO4 battery is what we generally call its capacity.

As we mentioned above, Jackery Portable Power Stations adopted LiFePO4 and lithium-ion battery cells to ensure stable and consistent power supply when charging household appliances. Also, these cells enables longer lifespans and higher resistances.

How Does A Jackery Portable Power Station Work?  

Jackery is a well-known producer of high-quality solar equipment, including solar panels, power stations, and solar generators.

Jackery Solar Generators are well-suited for serving as a sustainable energy solution during outdoor expeditions and as a home backup power source. Their remarkable energy density is a notable advantage as it enables them to store a substantial amount of energy in a compact package.   

Jackery Solar Generators utilise solar energy to charge electronic gadgets in remote locations without relying on traditional power sources. The Jackery Solar Panels harness solar energy and transform it into electrical power. At the same time, the Portable Power Station serves as a storage and transfer system for the generated electricity, enabling its use for daily power needs.

The power storage capacity of Jackery Portable Power Stations, which ranges from 288Wh to 12kWh, is adequate to provide energy for an entire weekend, even for the most energy-intensive equipment. We recommend integrating Jackery Solar Panels with a Portable Power Station for residential and outdoor applications to guarantee uninterrupted access to clean and sustainable solar energy. 

Pros & Cons of LiFePO4 Solar Battery 

LiFePO4 batteries have become widely popular in recent years due to their advantages. However, like any other technology, LiFePO4 solar batteries have their drawbacks. The following content is a detailed analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of LiFePO4 batteries.

Pros of LiFePO4 Solar Battery  

LiFePO4 batteries outperform most batteries, including lithium-ion, lead-acid and AGM batteries. The following are the reasons why more people choose Lifepo4 solar battery.

1. Safety: LiFePO4 batteries are considered one of the safest lithium-ion battery chemistries. Their stable chemical structure makes them less prone to thermal runaway or combustion, and they do not release harmful gases when charging or discharging, making them a reliable choice for safety-critical applications.

2. Energy Independence: Solar charging systems can operate freely off-grid, which is ideal for remote areas or emergency backup power.

3. Long Cycle Life: LiFePO4 batteries have an impressive cycle life and can withstand thousands of charge and discharge cycles without significant capacity loss. This makes them ideal for applications that require frequent ridings, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.

4. High Power Density: LiFePO4 batteries can provide high power output, making them suitable for applications that require bursts of energy or high power requirements. They can handle rapid charging and discharging without affecting their performance or longevity.

5. Higher Resistance: LiFePO4 lithium batteries can operate effectively in a wide temperature range, and this versatility makes them suitable for use in various environments and climates. These batteries can withstand extreme weather conditions and temperatures and remain calm in high temperatures. They won't suffer thermal runaway or explode when overheated or overcharged.

6. Environmental Friendliness: Compared to other lithium-ion chemistries, LifePo 4 lithium batteries are considered more environmentally friendly. They do not contain toxic heavy metals such as cobalt, which can harm the environment during production and disposal. By using solar energy to charge LiFePO4 batteries, you can tap into clean, renewable energy, significantly reducing your carbon footprint and environmental impact.

7. Low Maintenance: LiFePO4 batteries require almost no maintenance. Unlike lead-acid batteries, they do not require regular refills of distilled water, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome.

Cons of LiFePO4 Solar Battery  

While LiFePO4 batteries offer many advantages, including safety, longevity, and thermal stability, they also have certain limitations. These include lower energy density, higher cost, lower rate capability, and larger size and weight.

1. Higher Cost: Most of the time, lithium-iron phosphate batteries cost more than other lithium-ion batteries. LiFePO4 batteries are more expensive because of how they are made and the materials used.

Costs that are too high might stop many people from using them, especially when saving money is the most important thing. If you have little money, LiFePO4 batteries might not be the best choice for your energy storage solution. However, if you have enough budget, this type of solar battery is best for solar energy storing and charging.

2. Relative New Tech: Lithium-ion lithium iron phosphate batteries are being used increasingly, but they may still be more challenging to find than other lithium-ion batteries. This could make it harder to get what you need and limit the choices you have on the market.

3. Size and Weight: People know that LiFePO4 batteries are built to last a long time. However, this usually comes at the cost of being heavier and more extensive than other lithium-ion battery chemistries.But with the solar technology development, the size of this solar battery is smaller and smaller than before, such as Jackery Explorer 300 Plus which is only the size of a basketball.

How Much Does It Cost for A LiFePO4 Solar Battery? 

A standard LiFePO4 solar battery may cost $200 to $4000.

Although solar batteries offer significant advantages, such as serving as a backup power source, decreasing dependence on the utility company, and potentially leading to greater savings on electricity expenses, they are accompanied by substantial costs. The installation cost for a single home battery typically ranges from a minimum of $12,000 to a maximum of $20,000.

Several factors influence the cost of your solar battery, including the quantity of batteries installed, the specific battery model, the labour expenses of the installation, and the geographical location.

Factor 1: Number of Solar Batteries

It may appear obvious, but the cost of a solar energy storage system increases proportionally with the number of batteries added. The quantity of solar batteries required is contingent upon the following:

• What is the total amount of kilowatt-hours of energy that you consume?
• The battery's storage capacity.
• What is the desired number of appliances you wish to supply power to?
• What is the desired duration for powering your appliances?

Typically, during a power outage, one or two solar batteries will contain sufficient stored energy to meet your energy requirements and offer backup power to a select few circuits.

Factor 2: Battery Performance

The brand you select will affect the price of the battery, similar to other products you purchase. The variation in services and manufacturing procedures among different brands accounts for this difference. While acquiring an inexpensive battery from an unfamiliar brand is possible, we strongly recommend opting for a reputable and dependable brand.

Factor 3: Labor Cost

The labour intensity involved in installing your battery system will also influence the cost of a residential solar battery installation. Installing the battery simultaneously with the solar panels might save labour costs, as it allows for completing all electrical work and permitting both systems in one go.

Where Is The LiFePO4 Solar Battery Used? 

LiFePO4 batteries are ideal for reliable, lightweight, and safe power applications. They have a long service life and can be used safely without affecting the environment.

These batteries are used in electric vehicles, portable power stations, industrial applications, fishing boats and kayaks, business and commercial, medical equipment, and other areas. Whether you're looking for a power source to power your electric vehicle or need reliable backup power in an emergency, LiFePO4 solar batteries are the perfect solution.

Jackery Portable Power Stations with LiFePO4

Jackery Portable Power Stations are made for people who like being outside and care about the environment and their comfort. They give your appliances a safe way to get power while on the go or even for home backup.

Jackery ensures that their Portable Power Stations use lithium-ion and LiFePO4 batteries for a steady power source. Let's take a closer look at Explorer 2000 Plus and 300 Plus which adopted the LiFePO4 battery cells.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus

The Explorer 2000 Plus portable power station by Jackery significantly enhances the available choices for portable power. With its substantial capacity and impressive power output, this device can provide electricity to regular caravans for an extended time, making it ideal for outdoor excursions or as a home backup power supply. Adding battery cells to the Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus significantly boosts its capacity from 2 kWh to 12 kWh, leading to a revolutionary change in household backup power provision.

The Explorer 2000 Plus boasts a maximum power output of 3000W, 30% greater than other 2 kWh models. The bulk of critical household appliances are powered gadgets. Although the Explorer 2000 Plus is commonly used, it can be ultimately charged within 6 hours by utilising 6 SolarSaga 100W solar panels. The power source achieves self-sufficiency by harnessing solar energy rather than relying on the power grid for charging.

The supplementary battery pack can be recharged using solar panels, offering increased versatility while enhancing charging efficiency and reducing time consumption. Jackery's integrated battery management system (BMS) allows short-circuit protection, voltage regulation, temperature regulation, and other advanced safety functions.

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station is a lightweight and efficient power supply designed to meet the power needs for various situations such as hiking, kayaking, picnicking, camping, road trips, and emergency power backup.

This power station has a unique Battery Management System (BMS). It has 52 safety features and 12 BMS algorithms that work together to keep the device and any attached appliances as safe as possible. It also has four kinds of physical security to ensure everyone is safe.

This model stands out because it has an intelligent app control feature that lets users quickly manage the battery through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This makes it more modern and convenient to use. It's also very light - only 8.27 pounds - so it's an excellent choice for people who are always on the go.

LiFePO4 Solar Battery Troubleshooting

LiFePO4 batteries are well-liked for their reasons. Problems may still come up, though, and need to be fixed.

By learning these steps, you can fix standard lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery issues like not turning on, undervoltage protection, overvoltage protection, temperature protection, short circuit, and overcurrent. Find out what might be wrong and how to fix it so your LiFePO4 solar batteries work better and last longer.

A battery cannot be activated

If the battery doesn't work and the charge/discharge current is more than 1A, it may be badly discharged. Sub-10V can happen when the battery self-discharges or is loaded by other things.

Solution:

To fix the battery, use a battery charger or charge driver that can either activate or charge lithium batteries quickly.

Trigger undervoltage protection

The battery management system (BMS) stops discharge if the voltage goes too low. This keeps the battery from getting damaged.

Solution:

Take the battery off the load and charge it as soon as possible with a current of more than 1A.

Overvoltage protection activated

If the charge level is too high, the BMS will stop charging.

Solution:

1. Take the battery away from the source of power that is charging it.
2. 2V to 0.4V should be dropped from the charging power for 6 hours.
3. Use the correct voltage setting to try to charge the battery again fully. Repeat the above steps if the problem still happens after using a charging source that works with LiFePO4 and ensuring the voltage is set correctly.

High and low-temperature protection

Extreme temperatures trigger BMS protection.

Solution:

1. Take the battery away from the load or source of charge.
2. Take the battery away from the load or source of charge.
3. The battery keeps working even after being protected from high and low temperatures. 

LiFePO4 Solar Battery FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the LiFePO4 solar battery in Australia.

1. Are lithium-iron phosphate batteries suitable for solar energy?

LiFePO4 cells are often used in solar panels because they have a high energy density, a low self-discharge rate, and a long cycle life. They also work well with solar charging, which makes them perfect for backup or off-grid power systems that use solar cells to create energy. 

2. How to choose the best LiFePO4 solar battery?

This table offers a systematic method for choosing a LiFePO4 battery, considering all important factors to make the optimal selection.

3. Which one is better, lithium iron phosphate battery or lithium-ion battery?

There is competition between lithium-ion and lifepo4 batteries, but sometimes one is better.

LifePo4 batteries are smaller and lighter than regular lead-acid batteries. They can also handle being discharged many times. Because of this, they are perfect for situations where weight reduction is needed without sacrificing capacity, like when an electric car is converted or when solar power is used away from the power grid.

On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries have a high energy efficiency ratio and can hold a charge for a long time. Because of this, lithium-ion batteries are used in many gadgets, from high-end laptops to portable Bluetooth speakers. This means that you can pick the correct battery based on how it will be used.  

4. Can off-grid solar systems use lithium-iron phosphate batteries?

Yes. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are perfect for solar devices not connected to the power grid because they have a high energy density, a long cycle life, and excellent performance. They store energy reliably and can give you power even when there isn't much sunshine or sunshine.

Final Thoughts

When you need safe, reliable, and light power, LiFePO4 solar batteries are the best choice. LiFePO4 batteries are secure, have a high power density, can work in various temperatures, and are suitable for the climate, etc. But they also have some drawbacks, like being more expensive, and relatively new on the market. Also, we highly recommend Jackery Portable Power Stations to charge your appliances with lithium-ion and LiFePO4 battery cells.