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I have one of these! A domestic Solar iBoost. If our solar panels are generating excess energy, it automatically switches on an immersion heater. So the electri
by edent 8y ago
I have one of these! A domestic Solar iBoost. If our solar panels are generating excess energy, it automatically switches on an immersion heater. So the electricity heats up water rather than flowing back into the grid.
And, sadly, it is kinda pointless when combined with a battery. The days we produce more power than we can use and store - are generally warm and sunny days where we don't need as much hot water.
It saves very little money compared to the cost of gas - but it was a hell of a lot cheaper to install than the 2kWh battery.
- benj111 8y agoSo which one would you go for if you did it again, battery or iboost?
- edent 8y agoBattery. Electricity is more useful than steam.
- benj111 8y agoDo the financials agree?
- edent 8y agoSort of. https://shkspr.mobi/blog/2016/03/meet-maslow-the-uks-answer-to-teslas-powerwall/ https://shkspr.mobi/blog/2016/03/meet-maslow-the-uks-answer-...
- benj111 8y agoThanks for the writeup. I couldn't find a breakdown for the iboost but the Maslow was 2kwh for £2000. Given that a water heater could absorb much more energy for less money, wouldn't that be the way to go, or at least go water heater first until you've achieved some maximum utility, then go for battery?
- edent 8y agoI think the iboost was under £100. Sure the water can absorb more energy, but what can I do with it?
- rb808 8y agoIt would be great if excess electricity could be used for carbon scrubbing out of the air, or desalination or similar.