Blog › 04 Jul 2026
Lithium vs Lead-Acid Batteries for Load-Shedding: Which Should You Buy?
If you want backup during load-shedding, your solar system needs batteries — and the biggest choice is Lithium (LiFePO4) versus traditional Lead-Acid (tubular). Here's a straight comparison.
Lifespan
• Lithium (LiFePO4): typically 8–10+ years, often thousands of charge cycles.
• Lead-acid (tubular): typically 2–4 years.
Over time, one lithium battery often outlasts three or more sets of lead-acid.
Usable capacity
• Lithium: you can safely use around 90% of the stored energy.
• Lead-acid: only around 50%, to protect the battery — so you need more capacity for the same backup.
Space and weight
Lithium is far more compact and lighter for the same usable energy — easier to wall-mount and cleaner to install.
Maintenance
• Lithium: virtually maintenance-free.
• Lead-acid: needs ventilation and periodic checking.
Upfront cost
Lead-acid is cheaper to buy; lithium costs more upfront but is usually cheaper over its life because it lasts far longer and gives more usable energy.
Which should you choose?
For most homes wanting reliable, long-term backup, lithium (LiFePO4) is the better value despite the higher upfront price. Lead-acid can still make sense for a tight budget or lighter backup needs.
Not sure what size battery you need? Use our System Designer to size your backup, or message us and we'll recommend the right battery for your load and budget.