This page is a quick low-down on batteries. Batteries can be anything you store for power use later. Some people store compressed air, then use that to turn a generator later. Some pump water up high and others use conventional nickel-hydrite, lead acid, lithium or other. None of these are perfect solutions but here's our take on them:

Compressed Air can work with compressed air engines, usually a redesigned diesel motor (the tolerances need to be tighter). What's nice about the design - the fuel weights the same full as it does empty and its breathable. What's bad about it - its a very complex system from wind to compressor to re-use.

Raised water systems are also problematic in the amount of water you want to store for converting into energy can be enormous.

Conventional batteries are a "you get what you pay for" and choose wisely since this is the most problematic part of any power system.

I do have a battery power calculator that has the original battery in it from the late 80s. The batteries were made from a radio-active material and polymere but the process had some obvious flaws. . . besides being radio-active. Some of the batteries deteriorated shortly after the production. Still, the ones that worked - work well. I'm not suggesting we all make radioactive batteries, but they need to be mentioned here.

The best option is to dedicate the power you have - when you have it and store as little as possible! There are two types of non-battery off-grid power. 1.Water or Hydro-Electric which provides power while the water is flowing. 2. Dedicated systems that only provide power for a unit while the sun is shining or the wind is blowing. Both have issues but Hydro-Electric is the most dependable if you live in an area that doesn't freeze solid over winter. We have Water Bug Electric Barrel Units which are designed to be as trouble free in operation and "upgradable" to multiple units for providing as much power as your creek, stream or river will allow. They can also be tethered to the back of houseboats or other ships while anchored and provide power from any flowing water.