Power Storage Solutions FAQs Page

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please take a look at the sections below to find the answers you’re looking for. If you can’t find what you’re looking for or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always here to help!

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Last updated: March 2025

Critical Power FAQs

What are the most common types of rechargeable battery chemistries?

The most common types of rechargeable battery chemistries include Lead-Acid, Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH), and Lithium ion (Li-on).

What are Flooded Acid Batteries?

Flooded lead-acid batteries come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes due to their widespread usage in many industries and applications. They’re the most commonly used batteries on the reserve power (standby) market today because they are reliable and robust against harsh environments. Flooded batteries are 100 percent recyclable.

Flooded batteries do not recombine the hydrogen and oxygen gases to water internally as seen with VRLA batteries; instead, these gases are vented externally. Therefore, ventilation must be considered and properly sized to eliminate the hydrogen gases from the battery area.

Flooded batteries require more maintenance than VRLA batteries. Distilled or deionized water has to be routinely replenished to make up for the lost moisture (hydrogen and oxygen).

What are the most common uses for Flooded Acid Batteries?

Flooded lead-acid batteries are utilized in automobiles, forklifts, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), switchgear, telecommunications, emergency lighting and other applications.

What are Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Lithium ion batteries have a very high density compared to other battery technologies today. This means they are suitable for applications that need a high amount of power. Its electrochemistry uses lithium ions as a main component. Lithium ion batteries are low maintenance and don’t require scheduled cycling to increase the battery’s lifespan.

Lithium is the lightest of all metals. It has the greatest electrochemical potential and delivers the highest specific energy per weight. Lithium ion batteries have high nominal cell voltage of 3.60V. Additionally, lithium ion batteries do not suffer from memory effects and their self-discharge rate is less than half that of nickel-based systems.

Benefits of Lithium Ion batteries include very high energy density, very light weight, no memory effects, slow self-discharge, low maintenance, and no gassing.

What are the most common uses for Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Common uses for lithium ion batteries are in portable devices including laptops, computers, and cameras. Lithium Ion Batteries are starting to be used in standby and emergency backup applications for the telecommunications, cable, and data center industries.

Lithium Ion Batteries are also being used in material handling applications such as electric forklifts, pallet jacks, order pickers, reach trucks, and more.

What are the advantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Data Centers?

Benefits of Lithium Ion batteries include very high energy density, very light weight, no memory effects, slow self-discharge, low maintenance, and no gassing.

Lithium-ion batteries tend to have a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) when compared to other battery technologies.

One of the reasons the TCO is lower is that lithium-ion batteries last significantly longer than VRLA batteries.

What are the disadvantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Data Centers?

Lithium-ion batteries upfront costs are significantly higher than that of VRLA batteries so the initial investment may seem too large for some data centers.

What is a VRLA Battery?

VRLA (Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid) batteries utilize a one-way, pressure-relief valve system to achieve a “recombinant” technology.

This means that the oxygen normally produced on the positive plate is absorbed by the negative plate. This suppresses the production of hydrogen at the negative plate. Water (H2O) is produced instead, retaining the moisture within the battery.

VRLA batteries never need watering, and should never be opened as this would expose the battery to excess oxygen from the air.

VRLA technology encompasses both gelled electrolyte / gel batteries and absorbed glass mat / AGM batteries.

What are the most common uses of VRLA Batteries?

VRLA batteries are used in a variety of deep cycle and standby / emergency applications. Deep cycle, deep discharge VRLA battery applications include floor scrubbers, wheelchairs, golf carts, personnel carriers, and certain renewable energy applications.

Standby and Emergency Backup applications of VRLA batteries include, UPS (uninterrupted power systems), cable / broadband, emergency lighting, telecom, and renewable energy.

Do VRLA Batteries require ventilation?

Ventilation allows the VRLA batteries to release potentially dangerous, built-up gasses while keeping necessary electrolytes.

These batteries do so through their one-way, pressure-relief valves, which safely allow the release of gasses and excess pressure while also keeping the batteries properly sealed. Too much oxygen leaking into the battery could quickly contaminate and destroy it.

All types of VRLA batteries come with pressure-relief valves.

What is an AGM VRLA Battery?

VRLA-AGM type is a recombinant battery. This means that the oxygen evolved at the positive plates will recombine with the hydrogen generated at negative plates generating water and preventing water loss.

Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries absorb the electrolyte in a fiber-glass mat separator. This causes them to be spill proof, meaning they don’t leak acid like a flooded design if tipped on their side. The glass mats in AGM batteries are wrapped around the positive plate, which helps prevent damage from vibration and extend cycling.

AGM battery designs can have over twice the cycle life of a conventional flooded product in the right application. AGM VRLA batteries cost more than flooded batteries, but are less expensive than gel batteries.

What is a GEL VRLA Battery?

A gel battery has the sulfuric acid electrolyte mixed with silica material to form an immobilized gel. VRLA - gel batteries are recombinant type and do not need water and emit less gas than VLA (flooded) type lead-acid batteries.

Gel batteries reduce the electrolyte evaporation and spillage that are common to the VLA (flooded) battery. Gel batteries are considered to have greater resistance to extreme service temperatures.

Although gel batteries belong to a VRLA category, their construction is similar to VLA (flooded) batteries except for the gelled electrolyte. A Gel battery’s separator material is generally not an Absorbent Glass Mat, but microporous plastic material. VRLA Gel Batteries produce less hydrogen than other battery technologies and are maintenance-free.

What are the advantages of VRLA Batteries in Data Centers?

A benefit of VRLA batteries for UPS Systems and Data Centers is that they are maintenance-free. Maintenance-free VRLA batteries save time and reduce the risk of failure from lack of maintenance.

Additionally, VRLA batteries have a high-rate capacity and high charge efficiency. VRLA battery technology is often cheaper than other battery technologies.

What are the disadvantages of VRLA Batteries in Data Centers?

While an advantage of VRLA batteries is that they are relatively easy and inexpensive to install, a disadvantage is that should something go wrong, they can be damaged through improper installation.

Also, VRLA batteries tend to have a shorter life when compared to Lithium-Ion batteries.

What are Renewable Energy Batteries?

Renewable energy batteries collect excess energy and store it for when there is no renewable energy available.

Renewable Energy batteries are designed to provide high cycling performance and a safe, uninterrupted supply of energy in renewable energy applications. Renewable energy batteries can be used in multiple applications from small off-grid solar to large scale energy storage for commercial solar and wind farms.

Many battery technologies are utilized for renewable energy applications including VRLA-AGM, VRLA-Gel, NiCd, and more.

What are the most common uses for Renewable Energy Batteries?

Renewable energy batteries can be used in multiple applications from small off-grid solar to large scale energy storage for commercial solar and wind farms.

There are several types of renewable energy. Solar panels collect solar energy, while wind turbines transform wind into mechanical power. Moving water transforms into renewable energy with dams and hydro plants.

Whenever there is an excess of this type of energy, renewable energy batteries can store it for future use.

What are Nickel Cadmium Batteries?

Nickel cadmium (Ni-Cad or Ni-Cd) batteries are rechargeable batteries with a strong ability to conduct energy. Their strong conducting skills allow them to create very high currents, and they can recharge in a short amount of time. Nickel cadmium batteries need regular maintenance to extend their lifespan. They also have memory effect, so they need full discharge cycles to avoid capacity loss.

Ni-Cd cells have a nominal cell potential of 1.2 volts. Ni-Cd batteries have been around since late 1890s. They use nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium as electrodes. The electrolyte is alkaline – a solution of potassium hydroxide. The specific gravity of Ni-Cd electrolyte doesn’t change during charge & discharge – it retains the ability to transfer ions between cell plates.

Compared with other types of rechargeable cells they offer good cycle life and capacity, good performance at low temperatures, and work well at high discharge rates.

What are the most common uses for Nickel Cadmium Batteries?

Nickel cadmium batteries started off as energy sources for two-way radios, professional video cameras, power tools such as drills, and emergency medical equipment.

Now, larger ventilated wet cell and valve regulated Ni-Cd batteries are commonly used in reserve power applications such as emergency lighting, standby power, and UPS as well as other applications.

Telecom Power FAQs

Why is reliable backup power important for telecom networks?

Telecom networks depend on consistent, uninterrupted power to maintain connectivity. Backup power solutions, like our battery systems and DC power plants, ensure reliable uptime even during outages, preventing dropped calls and data loss.

What types of backup power solutions does Power Storage Solutions offer for telecom applications?

We provide a full range of solutions, including VRLA and lithium-ion batteries, DC power systems, rectifiers, battery monitoring, and turnkey installation services to keep your telecom infrastructure powered 24/7.

How do I determine the best battery solution for my telecom site?

Factors such as power demand, site conditions, runtime requirements, and budget will determine the best battery solution. Our experts can assess your needs and recommend the ideal VRLA or lithium-ion battery system.

What’s the difference between VRLA and lithium-ion batteries for telecom applications?

VRLA (Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid) batteries are cost-effective, proven solutions for telecom backup power, while lithium-ion batteries offer a longer lifespan, faster recharge times, and higher energy density, reducing maintenance needs and footprint.

How long do telecom backup batteries last?

Battery lifespan varies by type and usage. VRLA batteries typically last 3-10 years, while lithium-ion options can exceed 10-20 years. Regular maintenance and proper charging extend battery life.

How can I monitor the health of my telecom batteries?

We offer battery monitoring solutions that provide real-time performance data, detect early signs of failure, and improve overall system reliability.

What are the best practices for extending the life of my telecom batteries?

Proper charging, temperature control, routine maintenance, and monitoring are key. We also offer lifecycle & maintenance services to help maximize battery performance.

Does Power Storage Solutions provide installation services for telecom backup power?

Yes, we offer full turnkey installation, including battery replacement, system integration, and commissioning, ensuring a seamless transition with minimal downtime.

How often should telecom backup batteries be maintained?

Regular maintenance should be performed at least annually for VRLA and lithium-ion systems. Our team provides preventive maintenance services to ensure optimal performance and compliance with industry standards.

What should I do with old or decommissioned telecom batteries?

We provide battery removal and recycling services in compliance with environmental regulations, ensuring responsible disposal and minimal environmental impact.

How does Power Storage Solutions support remote and off-grid telecom sites?

Our advanced lithium and VRLA battery solutions, combined with solar and hybrid power systems, enable reliable backup power for remote telecom towers with limited grid access.

Do your telecom power solutions meet industry standards?

Yes, our products comply with IEEE, Telcordia, and other relevant industry standards, ensuring safe, high-quality backup power solutions for telecom networks.

How quickly can you deploy emergency backup power for telecom sites?

We offer rapid deployment solutions, including containerized power systems and emergency battery replacements, to minimize downtime during outages or disaster recovery situations.

Can Power Storage Solutions customize backup power systems for specific telecom site requirements?

Yes, we tailor backup power solutions to meet the specific needs of your telecom site, considering factors like power demand, climate conditions, space constraints, and redundancy requirements.

Do you offer hybrid power solutions for telecom applications?

Yes, we provide hybrid systems that integrate batteries with solar, wind, or generator power to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and extend battery lifespan.

What are the advantages of high-temperature batteries for telecom applications?

High-temperature batteries, such as advanced VRLA or lithium-ion options, are designed to withstand extreme heat without degrading quickly, making them ideal for outdoor or remote telecom sites.

How can I reduce operational costs for my telecom backup power system?

Upgrading to lithium-ion batteries, implementing smart monitoring, and optimizing charge cycles can significantly reduce maintenance and energy costs over time. Our team can help design cost-effective solutions.

Do you provide surge protection solutions for telecom power systems?

Yes, we offer surge protection and power conditioning solutions to safeguard telecom equipment from voltage spikes, lightning strikes, and power fluctuations, ensuring long-term reliability.

Industrial Power FAQs

What are the biggest risks of power failure in industrial and utility environments?

Power failures in industrial settings can lead to costly downtime, equipment damage, safety hazards, and regulatory non-compliance. Our backup power solutions are designed to minimize these risks by ensuring continuous, stable power in critical operations.

How do I know if my industrial battery system needs to be replaced?

Warning signs include decreased capacity, increased internal resistance, excessive heat generation, or failing discharge tests. Our technicians perform detailed assessments to determine whether maintenance, reconditioning, or full replacement is necessary.

How do you ensure the reliability of backup power systems in high-temperature or corrosive environments?

We offer battery solutions engineered for extreme conditions, including high-temperature-rated batteries, corrosion-resistant enclosures, and climate-controlled battery storage options to ensure longevity and performance.

Can Power Storage Solutions provide mobile or temporary backup power solutions for industrial applications?

Yes, we offer temporary, rental, and containerized battery solutions and portable power units for temporary backup during maintenance, emergencies, or remote operations.

What role does battery monitoring play in industrial power management?

Battery monitoring systems (BMS) provide real-time data on battery health, voltage, temperature, and capacity. This helps prevent unexpected failures, extend battery life, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

Do you provide compliance consulting for utility and industrial backup power systems?

Yes, we help facilities navigate compliance with NERC, IEEE, and EPA regulations, ensuring proper system installation, maintenance, and documentation for audits. Contact us for a complimentary site audit.

How do you determine the right battery technology for a specific industrial application?

We assess factors such as load requirements, environmental conditions, safety regulations, space constraints, and budget to recommend the most suitable battery technology—whether it’s lead-acid, lithium-ion, Ni-Cd, etc.

Can Power Storage Solutions design a custom backup power system for my facility?

Absolutely. We specialize in designing and implementing custom power solutions tailored to unique industrial requirements, from small utility substations to large petrochemical plants.

How does Power Storage Solutions ensure compliance with industry safety standards?

We adhere to OSHA, IEEE, NERC, and NFPA 70E guidelines for industrial power safety. Our team is trained in proper handling, installation, and maintenance procedures to minimize risks and ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations.

Is Power Storage Solutions ISNetworld certified?

Yes, we are ISNetworld-compliant and maintain up-to-date safety documentation, training, and risk assessments through RAVS Plus to meet the strict compliance requirements of industrial, utility, and petrochemical clients.

What measures do you take to prevent battery-related hazards?

We implement strict safety protocols, including proper ventilation, spill containment, temperature control, and routine inspections to prevent thermal runaway, leaks, and electrical hazards in battery systems.

Can Power Storage Solutions assist with compliance audits and reporting?

Yes, we provide detailed documentation, maintenance records, and compliance reports to support regulatory audits and ensure that your backup power system meets all required standards. We also offer robust maintenance programs to ensure your facility is always up to code.

Do you offer emergency power solutions for industrial and utility sites?

Yes, we provide a vast selection of emergency battery solutions, temporary backup power, containerized battery solutions, and rapid replacement services to keep your operations running during outages or disasters.

How quickly can Power Storage Solutions respond to a power failure or emergency

Our national footprint allows us to offer rapid deployment solutions, including containerized power systems and emergency battery replacements, to minimize downtime during outages or disaster recovery situations. Response time may vary based on your location, but rest assured we employ skilled technicians from coast to coast who can assess, repair, and replace your backup power systems in a flash.

What is the best way to prepare my facility for power emergencies?

Regular maintenance, battery testing, and system monitoring are key. We also recommend having a redundancy plan, onsite spares, and an emergency response protocol in place—our team can help develop a tailored strategy for your facility.

Can you help with post-emergency system recovery and damage assessments?

Absolutely. After a power event, our team conducts full system assessments, including load testing and capacity evaluations, to ensure your backup power infrastructure is fully operational and reliable.

Data Center & UPS FAQs

How do I choose the right UPS system for my data center’s power needs?

Selecting the right UPS depends on your power capacity, load requirements, redundancy needs, and runtime expectations. Power Storage Solutions evaluates your infrastructure and recommends a scalable UPS system tailored to your data center’s critical power demands.

What are the key differences between online, line-interactive, and standby UPS systems?

Online UPS: Provides continuous power conversion for zero transfer time and maximum protection.

Line-Interactive UPS: Regulates voltage fluctuations and offers short transfer times.

Standby UPS: Engages only during an outage, making it best for non-critical applications.

How does Power Storage Solutions ensure uninterrupted power for mission-critical data centers?

We design custom power solutions with redundancy, high-efficiency UPS systems, and robust battery backup to prevent downtime. Our maintenance and monitoring services further ensure reliability.

What factors should I consider when designing a scalable backup power solution for a growing data center?

Key considerations include current and future load capacity, modular UPS systems, battery runtime, cooling requirements, and redundancy levels to adapt to future expansion.

How does load balancing impact the efficiency and lifespan of a UPS system?

Proper load balancing prevents overloading and underutilization, ensuring even power distribution, reducing wear on UPS components, and extending overall system lifespan.

What is the best redundancy strategy for data center UPS systems—N+1, 2N, or 2N+1?

N+1: One additional UPS module beyond the required capacity.

2N: A fully redundant second UPS system for maximum reliability.

2N+1: Full redundancy plus extra backup for extreme reliability.
Power Storage Solutions helps determine the best redundancy model based on your risk tolerance and budget.

How can UPS efficiency impact overall data center operating costs?

High-efficiency UPS systems reduce energy consumption, cooling costs, and operational expenses, improving power usage effectiveness (PUE).

What are the advantages of lithium-ion batteries in data center UPS applications?

Lithium-ion batteries offer longer lifespan, faster recharge times, higher energy density, and lower maintenance compared to traditional lead-acid batteries

How does Power Storage Solutions help reduce energy consumption in data center backup systems?

We provide high-efficiency UPS solutions, battery monitoring, and power management strategies to minimize energy waste and maximize uptime.

What is power factor correction in energy storage?

Power factor correction (PFC) improves electrical efficiency by reducing wasted reactive power. In energy storage systems, PFC helps optimize power delivery, lower demand charges, and enhance grid stability. Many modern battery inverters include built-in PFC for improved performance.

What role does power factor correction play in optimizing UPS performance?

Power factor correction improves energy efficiency, reduces strain on electrical systems, and maximizes usable power, ensuring UPS systems operate at peak performance.

How often should a data center UPS system be inspected and serviced?

We recommend quarterly battery inspections, semi-annual preventive maintenance, and annual system testing to ensure optimal performance and early fault detection.

What are the most common causes of UPS failures, and how can they be prevented?

The most common issues include battery degradation, capacitor failure, overheating, and power surges. Preventative maintenance and real-time monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of failure.

Does Power Storage Solutions offer remote monitoring for UPS and battery health?

Yes, we can provide real-time monitoring solutions that track battery health, runtime, and power anomalies to prevent failures before they occur.

What are the signs that my UPS batteries need to be replaced?

Warning signs include reduced runtime, swelling or leaking batteries, frequent alarms, overheating, and voltage irregularities. We offer battery testing and replacement services to maintain reliability.

What are the best practices for ensuring UPS systems comply with environmental and fire safety regulations?

Compliance includes proper battery disposal, thermal management, fire suppression integration, and adherence to NFPA codes. We offer eco-friendly battery recycling and fire-rated enclosures.

How can I integrate renewable energy sources into my data center’s backup power strategy?

We offer solutions that integrate solar, wind, and energy storage into UPS backup systems to reduce reliance on traditional power sources and improve sustainability. Contact us to learn more about our renewable options and tailored energy storage systems for data centers & UPS systems.

Microgrid FAQs

What is a microgrid, and how does it work?

A microgrid is a self-sufficient energy system that operates independently or in conjunction with the main power grid. It integrates renewable energy sources, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and backup power generation to provide reliable, efficient, and resilient electricity for critical facilities and industrial sites.

How do I determine if a microgrid is the right solution for my facility?

If your facility experiences frequent outages, requires energy cost savings, or needs a more sustainable power source, a microgrid may be the ideal solution. Power Storage Solutions conducts feasibility assessments to evaluate energy consumption, site conditions, and backup power needs to design a tailored microgrid system.

What factors should I consider when designing a microgrid?

Key considerations include energy demand, load profiles, renewable energy integration, storage capacity, grid connectivity, regulatory compliance, and financial incentives. Our team engineers scalable microgrid solutions optimized for resilience and efficiency.

Can a microgrid operate entirely off-grid?

Yes, microgrids can function in island mode, meaning they generate and distribute electricity independently of the main grid. This setup is ideal for remote locations, industrial sites, and emergency power applications.

What role does a battery energy storage system (BESS) play in a microgrid?

A BESS stores excess energy from renewable sources like solar and wind, ensuring power availability during peak demand, grid outages, or low-generation periods. It enhances energy resilience and optimizes cost savings through load shifting and demand response.

How do I choose the right battery energy storage system for my microgrid?

Factors such as storage capacity, discharge rate, lifespan, and environmental conditions determine the right BESS for your microgrid. Power Storage Solutions evaluates these parameters to recommend the best battery technology, whether lithium-ion, lead-acid, or flow batteries.

What is the lifespan of a battery energy storage system?

The lifespan varies based on battery chemistry and usage. Lithium-ion batteries typically last 10-15 years, while lead-acid batteries range from 5-10 years. Proper maintenance and monitoring extend battery life and optimize performance.

Can a microgrid reduce my energy costs?

Yes. By utilizing on-site generation, energy storage, and demand management strategies, a microgrid can lower peak demand charges, optimize energy usage, and reduce reliance on expensive grid power.

How does a microgrid improve energy resilience?

Microgrids provide backup power during grid failures, ensuring continuous operations for critical infrastructure. They can seamlessly transition to island mode, protecting businesses from power disruptions.

What industries benefit most from microgrid solutions?

Industries with high energy demands, critical infrastructure, and sustainability goals benefit from microgrids. This includes data centers, healthcare facilities, government municipalities, military bases, manufacturing plants, telecom networks, retail businesses, schools and universities, utilities, and so much more.

Can a microgrid integrate with renewable energy sources?

Yes. Microgrids can incorporate solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon footprints.

How long does it take to install a microgrid system?

Installation timelines vary based on system complexity and permitting requirements. On average, microgrid deployment takes between 6-18 months, from design to commissioning.

What maintenance is required for a battery energy storage system?

Regular battery inspections, performance monitoring, thermal management, and software updates ensure optimal efficiency and longevity. Power Storage Solutions offers comprehensive maintenance services to keep your system running at peak performance.

Does Power Storage Solutions provide remote monitoring for microgrid systems?

Yes. Our advanced monitoring platforms track energy production, storage levels, and system health in real time, allowing for proactive maintenance and performance optimization.

Are there financial incentives or grants available for microgrid installations?

Many federal, state, and local programs offer grants, tax credits, and incentives for microgrid and energy storage installations. Power Storage Solutions helps clients identify and apply for available funding opportunities.

How do microgrids comply with industry regulations?

Microgrids must adhere to utility interconnection standards, environmental policies, and safety regulations. Our team ensures compliance with all relevant guidelines, including but not limited to IEEE 1547, UL 9540, and NFPA 855.

Why choose Power Storage Solutions for microgrid design and support?

With expertise in energy storage, backup power, and renewable integration, we provide end-to-end microgrid solutions—design, installation, maintenance, and monitoring—ensuring your facility gains maximum resilience and efficiency.