We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Equipment

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Different Types of Rechargeable Solar Batteries?

By J. Landers
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 6,707
References
Share

Two types of rechargeable solar batteries — nickel-cadmium (NiCd) and nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH)— power many commonly used handheld devices. The attributes of these batteries make each one appropriate for specific applications. Common sizes include AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volts for NiCd batteries and AA and AAA for NiMH batteries. A solar battery charger usually requires placement in window that faces the Earth's equator, where it will receive the most sunlight. During evening hours or on cloudy days, the solar charger can be placed under a lamp to absorb the infrared heat, although this will charge the batteries much more slowly than if the charger is in sunlight.

Rechargeable solar batteries have an established temperature range for charging and for discharging. Most battery manufacturers recommend that users avoid charging the batteries in extreme weather conditions. They also recommend charging the batteries in moderate temperatures.

Nickel-cadmium batteries have been one of the main rechargeable solar batteries on the market since the 1980s. These batteries power devices such as solar lights, emergency medical equipment, two-way radios and power tools that require high capacity and a long product life. Nickel-cadmium batteries work well in low temperatures. They also have a higher tolerance than NiHM batteries for heat. When stored, NiCd batteries have a self-discharge rate of about 20 percent a month.

NiMH batteries have been in use since 1990. These batteries' include a hydrogen-absorbing alloy, which makes them environmentally friendly and recyclable. It has a capacity that is 30 to 40 percent higher than that of a conventional NiCd battery. NiMH batteries often power devices such as cameras, laptop computers, cellular phones and hybrid automobiles.

These batteries have the same energy capacity as lithium-ion batteries, but if they are stored, they have a higher discharge rate. NiMH batteries provide a consistent power supply over a longer period of time than NiCd batteries. The life cycle of NiMH rechargeable solar batteries is shorter, however, which means that they can be recharged fewer times before they must be replaced. NiCd batteries might last for about 1,000 cycles or more, but NiMH batteries might be able to be recharged only about 500 times or less.

Share
The Solar Panel Guide is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Link to Sources
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.thesolarpanelguide.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-rechargeable-solar-batteries.htm
Copy this link
The Solar Panel Guide, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Solar Panel Guide, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.