Why off-grid batteries aren’t like the ones in your car

Car batteries are designed to give a big burst of power for a short period. It’s enough to turn over the engine, and then it’s no longer needed and is immediately recharged to full as you drive.

Off-grid setups use deep cycle batteries. They’re designed to have power drawn from them for long periods without being charged immediately. It allows you to power things like lights, a TV, and laptop at night when there’s no sunlight. They can also manage prolonged, repeated, deep discharges for many years.