Off-grid solar energy storage system with hybrid lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lead-acid batteries in high mountains: a case report of Jiujiu Cabins in Taiwan

TL;DR

This paper reports on the upgrade of an off-grid solar energy storage system at Jiujiu Cabins in Taiwan, replacing part of the lead-acid batteries with eco-friendly lithium iron phosphate batteries to improve sustainability and reliability.

Contribution

It introduces a hybrid solar energy storage system combining LFP and lead-acid batteries, enhancing eco-friendliness and system resilience in high-altitude mountain huts.

Findings

Successful replacement of lead-acid batteries with LFP batteries

Restoration of the energy system after failure

Enhanced sustainability and reliability of the off-grid system

Abstract

Mountain huts are buildings located at high altitude, offering a place for hikers and providing shelter. Energy supply to mountain huts remains an ongoing issue. Using renewable energies could be an appropriate solution. Jiujiu Cabins, a famous mountain hut in Shei-Pa National Park, Taiwan, has operated an off-grid solar energy storage system (ESS) with lead-acid batteries. In 2021, a serious system failure took place, leading to no electricity. After a detailed on-site survey, a reorganization and repair project was implemented, and the energy system came back to operate normally. Meanwhile, an eco-friendly lithium iron phosphate battery (LFP battery) ESS replaces part of the lead-acid battery ESS, forming a hybrid ESS, making a better and greener off-grid solar ESS. In this case report, the energy architecture, detailed descriptions, and historical status of the system are provided. An on-site survey of the failed energy system, a system improvement project, and a future plan are listed.