Introduction
A solar battery is what allows you to use solar power at night and during power outages. If you are asking what is a solar battery, how it works, how long it lasts, and how much it costs in Kenya, this guide breaks everything down in simple, beginner-friendly terms.
What Is a Solar Battery?
A solar battery stores excess electricity generated by solar panels during the day so it can be used later when there is no sunlight.
Without a battery, solar panels only power your home during daylight hours.
Why Solar Batteries Are Important in Kenya
- Frequent power outages
- Unreliable grid supply in some areas
- High electricity costs
- Need for backup power at night
How a Solar Battery Works
During the day, solar panels generate electricity. Your inverter supplies power to your home first, then sends excess energy to charge the battery. At night or during blackouts, the battery releases stored energy to power your appliances.
Types of Solar Batteries
1. Lithium-Ion Solar Batteries
Lithium batteries are the most modern and popular option for Kenyan homes.
Advantages
- High efficiency
- Fast charging
- Long lifespan
- Compact size
Disadvantages
- Higher upfront cost
Best for: Most residential solar systems and hybrid setups.
2. Lead-Acid Solar Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the traditional option and are still widely used in Kenya.
Advantages
- Lower initial cost
- Widely available
Disadvantages
- Shorter lifespan
- Requires regular maintenance
- Large and heavy
Best for: Budget installations and small off-grid systems.
3. Gel and AGM Batteries
These are improved versions of lead-acid batteries with less maintenance.
- Better performance than flooded lead-acid
- Moderate lifespan
Solar Battery Lifespan Explained
Battery lifespan depends on type, usage, and depth of discharge.
- Lithium-ion: 8–15 years
- Gel / AGM: 4–7 years
- Flooded lead-acid: 2–5 years
Solar Battery Prices in Kenya (2025/2026)
Prices vary based on capacity (kWh) and brand.
- Lead-acid batteries: KSh 25,000 – 60,000
- Gel / AGM batteries: KSh 45,000 – 90,000
- Lithium batteries (5 kWh): KSh 180,000 – 350,000+
Note: Lithium batteries cost more initially but are cheaper long-term.
How Much Battery Capacity Does a Kenyan Home Need?
- Small home: 2–5 kWh
- Medium home: 5–10 kWh
- Large home: 10–20 kWh
Best Solar Battery Brands in Kenya
- Pylontech
- BYD
- Dyness
- Freedom Won
- Trojan (lead-acid)
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Buying cheap batteries without warranty
- Over-discharging lead-acid batteries
- Ignoring compatibility with inverter
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a solar battery?
Yes, if you want backup power at night or during blackouts.
Can I add batteries later?
Yes, especially with hybrid inverter systems.
Are lithium batteries worth it in Kenya?
Yes. They last longer and perform better in hot climates.
Conclusion
Understanding what a solar battery is, the different types, lifespan, and prices helps you choose the right storage solution for your solar system. For most Kenyan homes, lithium-ion batteries offer the best balance of performance, reliability, and long-term value.