The cost of lead-acid batteries over their lifespan is influenced by several factors, including initial purchase cost, maintenance costs, lifespan, and replacement frequency. Here’s a breakdown of these aspects:
Key Factors in Lead-Acid Battery Costs
- Initial Purchase Cost:
- Lead-acid batteries are generally cheaper to buy upfront compared to lithium-ion batteries. A 12V 100Ah lead-acid battery typically costs between $90 and $150.
- Lifespan:
- Lead-acid batteries have a limited lifespan, typically lasting between 300 to 500 cycles. This equates to a usable lifespan of about 2 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
- They need to be replaced more frequently than lithium-ion batteries, contributing to higher long-term costs.
- Maintenance Costs:
- Lead-acid batteries require more maintenance than lithium-ion alternatives, including regular watering and terminal cleaning. Annual maintenance costs are estimated at $50 to $100.
- Cost per Cycle:
- The cost per cycle for lead-acid batteries is approximately $0.30 per cycle, assuming 300 cycles. This is higher compared to lithium-ion batteries, which can be around $0.095 per cycle for LiFePO4 types.
Impact Over Lifespan
- Total Cost of Ownership: Despite the lower initial cost, the total cost of ownership for lead-acid batteries can be higher over time due to frequent replacements and maintenance.
- Cost Per Usable KWh per Cycle: Over the lifespan, this cost calculation includes not just the initial purchase but also subsequent replacements and maintenance. For example, for a 50 KWh installation requiring multiple replacements, the total cost per usable kWh per cycle is higher for lead-acid compared to lithium-ion.
Summary
In summary, the cost of lead-acid batteries changes significantly over their lifespan due to their shorter lifespan and higher maintenance needs. While they are cheaper initially, the cost per cycle is higher, and frequent replacements lead to higher total costs over time compared to lithium-ion batteries.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-cost-of-lead-batteries-change-over-their-lifespan/
