In-home storage units are now being run by the same batteries used in the Mercedes-Benz all electric cars. The idea is similar to the Powerwall developed by Tesla. Daimler AG said that Deutsche ACCUmotive are the manufacturers, and they are being used by solar tech and energy companies. It is the sensible option as they are used alongside solar panels. At present Germany is the only place they are being used but Mercedes have said that they will soon be setting up an international program.
It is not unusual for eight columns to be used together and as each lithium-ion battery has a 2.5kWh capacity, once combined it will reach 20 kWh. Mercedes claim that it will be able to capture leftover solar power, and this can be used at a later date, and very little will be lost.
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There is no information regarding the cost at the moment, and this could be due to the fact that there are a number of parts involved including photovoltaic panels. The units have been produced since 2015, and it is possible to scale them, so this accounts for the rapid introduction to the home market. Daimler is putting a lot of trust in the development and has put over $500 million into in additional factory due to open in 2017.
Powerball is more stylish, and multiples can be installed together. It costs $3.500, and there has been a high demand for the product as 38,000 were reserved last year. Daimler will hope to take some of the next orders.