LG Chem RESU Battery: The Complete Review

You know LG from their popular electronics and solar panels. Now, LG Chem produces the high quality LG Chem RESU battery for hybrid solar energy storage. In this review, we will examine the LG Chem RESU battery, how it works, application types, comparing models, the installation process, warranty period and lifespan, and if you should purchase the LG Chem RESU battery for your energy storage.

Solar power storage has progressed rapidly over the last few years with the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have longer lifespans, warranties and overall efficiencies when compared to other battery technology such as AGM and gel. The LG Chem RESU battery, produced by LG Chem, utilizes technology that draws upon on their 70 years of expertise in chemicals. LG Chem is a leading supplier of lithium-ion batteries for electric cars, and is is primed to become a leading solution for commercial and residential clients seeking powerful battery storage solutions for their solar energy system.

LG Chem’s RESU lithium-ion batteries are compact, safe and easy to install. Their batteries are also easy to scale with their RESU 48V line, which easily connects with the RESU plus (battery add-ons). With diverse options ranging from 3.3kWh to 13.1kWh, LG Chem has a battery solution for a wide range of projects and is compatible with a wide range of market ready inverters.

See Here: LG Chem RESU Battery Brochure

What is the LG Chem RESU?

The LG Chem RESU is a home power storage solution that pairs with solar energy systems in order to maximize renewable energy consumption. Rather than send excess energy back to the grid, the LG Chem allows that energy to be stored for non-peak times such as at night when your solar energy system is not harvesting energy. In the event of a power outage, the batteries function as a source of backup power. In the case of most of the RESU batteries, they are not designed for completely off-grid systems – on-grid hybrid is the recommended and primary application.

The batteries have a range of kilowatt hour capacities that range between 3.3kWh to 13.10kWh. They are compatible with a number of market ready inverters, which are outlined in detail below.

How Does the LG Chem Battery Work?

*Image Credit - LG Chem

LG Chem’s RESU batteries utilize Energy Storage System (ESS) technology that allows power supply for commercial, industrial, utility, residential and Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS). The batteries allow for self-consumption, demand charge management, and serve as a backup power supply in the event of power outage or black out. The battery cells utilize a lamination and stacking process, which enables higher energy density (PH3 technology) which enhances sustainability of the cell structures. In addition, their Safety Reinforced Seperator increases both mechanical and thermal stability of battery cells.

Their Battery Management System (BMS) allows installers to measure battery state information such as voltage, current and temperature. Their in-depth diagnosis monitoring capabilities assist in troubleshooting abnormal symptoms that lead to energy losses over time. Users are further able to control temperature and cell balancing of the battery. This is achieved through the power conversion and operating systems inside the battery.

Is the LG Chem Recommended for Residential and Commercial Solar Systems?

*Installed LG Chem

Many homeowners are in the pursuit of achieving self-consumption and, ultimately, energy independence. The LG Chem battery can be used to further electricity savings by taking advantage of charge during off-peak times to be discharged during peak times of energy consumption, (i.e., excess energy stored in the battery during sunlight hours can be used to power your home at night when your solar system is not gathering energy. Self-consumption allows for this solar energy storage for future use. In addition, the LG Chem provides energy power backup through discharging during a power outage event, such as a blackout.

LG Chem 48V vs 400V Comparison

LG Chem batteries are available in both 48V and 400V, currently the 400V battery can only be used in hybrid set-ups and cannot be used in off-grid applications. The 48V batteries can be used in both hybrid and off grid setups, compatibility with off-grid applications is dependent on the inverter type that the battery is compatible with. This is important to note for off-grid installers, as they will require a specific batteries to have the ability to use the system. For a breakdown of compatible inverters, view the chart below.

The 48V line from LG Chem includes:

• The RESU3.3, RESU6.5, RESU10 and RESU13
• IP55 Enclosure
• CAN2.0B/UL1642 Communication
• RESU3.3 and RESU6.5 Certifications - UL1973, TUV (IEC 62619), CE, FCC and RCM
• RESU10 and RESU13 Certifications - TUV (IEC62619), CE, FCC and RCM

Model:	RESU3.3	RESU6.5	RESU10	RESU13
Total Energy (kWh):	3.3	6.5	9.8	13.1
Usable Energy (kWh):	2.9	5.9	8.8	12.4
Capacity (Ah):	63	126	189	252
Nominal Voltage (V):	51.8	51.8	51.8	51.8
Voltage Range (V):	42.0~58.8	42.0~58.8	42.0~58.8	42.0~58.8
Dimensions (mm):	452 x 403 x 120	452 x 656 x 120	452 x 484 x 227	452 x 626 x 227
Weight (kg):	31	52	75	99

*The total energy is measured at the initial stage of battery life at 25°C, usable energy is based on the battery cell only.

The 400V line includes:

• RESU7H and RESU10H (Type-R and Type-C options)
• UL1642 and IP55 Enclosure
• Type-R Communication via RS485
• Type-C Communicates via CAN2.0B
• RESU7H Type-R Certifications - TUV (IEC 62619), CE, FCC and RCM
• Type-C Certifications - TUV (IEC 62619), CE and RCM
• Both RESU10H Certifications - UL1973, TUV (IEC 62619), CE, FCC and RCM

Model:	RESU7H (Type-R)	RESU7H (Type-C)	RESU10H (Type-R)	RESU10H (Type-C)
Total Energy (kWh):	7.0	7.0	9.8	9.8
Usable Energy (kWh):	6.6	6.6	9.3	9.3
Capacity (Ah):	63	63	63	63
Voltage Range (V):	350~450	430~550	350~450	430~550
Dimensions (mm):	744 x 692 x 206	744 x 907 x 206	744 x 907 x 206	744 x 907 x 206
Weight:	75	87	97	99.8

*The total energy is measured at the initial stage of battery life at 25°C, usable energy is based on the battery cell only.

Can the LG Chem RESU Be Used for Utility Power Storage?

LG Chem offers an exclusive lineup of product options for grid-scale solar energy systems. The batteries allow for peak shifting, which also allows for charging during off-peak times and discharge during peak times. The batteries can be integrated with renewables, allowing for stabilizing intermittent power by alternating between charging and discharging. The frequency is regulated in a similar manner, allowing for charge when grid frequency increases and discharge when grid frequency decreases.

*Image credit - LG Chem August 2018 Brochure (Grid-Scale ESS)

What is the Installation Process for the LG Chem Battery?

In accordance with LG Chem's warranty requirements, all LG Chem batteries installed in the United States must be installed by a certified installer. The LG Chem is recommend for areas whose ambient temperature fits within the batteries -10°C (14°F) to 45°C (113°F) range.

See Here: LG Chem Certified Installer List
See Here: Become a Certified for LG Chem Installation

Be sure to read the RESU batteries installation guide completely prior to beginning work. Installation of the LG Chem battery typically requires at least two people, and is both quick and easy. RESU10H and RESU7H are required to be wall mounted, the battery requires that the wall should be able to support weight for over 150kg and have the ability to for the bracket to be installed 720mm above the ground, which allows for 600mm of clearance between the bottom of the battery and the ground. Be sure to take this into account when planning for your installation. 

The LG Chem comes with the battery pack, wall bracket, M6 wall mounts as well as the installation guide. LG Chem's handles come separately and are highly recommended for installation.

See Here: LG Chem Installation Guide

For more information about installing the LG Chem, check out the video below.

What is the Warranty Period of the Battery?

The LG Chem battery comes with a 10 year warranty that is based on the battery's remaining capacity and energy based on charge and discharge cycles. The warranty ensures storage capacity greater than 60% during this ten year period. This warranty far exceeds non-lithium batteries, which average a 2-5 year warranty period before the battery needs to be replaced. This increase in lifetime and efficiency has the potential to further decrease your system's ROI and provide battery storage for a much longer period of time before a replacement becomes necessary.

See Here: LG Chem RESU Warranty Statement

How Does the LG Chem Compare to Other Lithium-Ion Batteries?

There are a number of lithium-ion battery manufacturers producing similar batteries to the LG Chem. Lithium-ion batteries are capable of meeting a wider range of renewable energy demands, while providing higher efficiencies and longer life expectancy than other battery technologies. 

Although the batteries are similar there are differences in the various battery offerings, ranging from cost to their respective warranty periods. The Tesla Powerwall 2.0, is the most common battery that power storage researchers come across. Which battery is used for a project is largely dependent on needs, price point, site setup and available inverter options. Below is a list of some of these comparisons.

Manufacturer:	LG Chem	Tesla	Discover	Pika Energy
Model:	RESU	Powerwall 2.0	LiFePO4	Harbor Smart
Specifications:	Specs	Specs	Specs	Specs
Capacity Range (kWh):	3.3 - 13.1	13.5	1.0 - 6.7	11.4 - 17.1
Price Range:	~$6,000 to $7,000	~$6,700	~$3,000 to $8,000	~$12,000 to $20,000
Warranty:	10 Years (60% Capacity)	10 Years (70% Capacity)	Varies See Warranty	10 Years
Warranty Sheet:	Warranty	Warranty	Warranty	Warranty

Should You Consider the LG Chem for Your Energy Storage?

Battery storage offers significant benefits for some home and business owners, particularly for those who are on a time-of-use utility plan, or those who live in areas with frequent grid shutdowns, like those expected in California. For those who can take advantage of net metering, the additional cost of the batteries may increase the ROI on your complete energy system.

In terms of battery storage, lithium-ion has a great deal more to offer than traditional battery backup units, they are more affordable, have less maintenance, take up less space and have longer warranty periods. For those seeking energy independence, the LG Chem RESU battery can provide the energy storage capabilities you need as premium addition to your solar power system.

Read Here: Understanding Solar Lithium-Ion Batteries