What are the Benefits of Battery Storage for Solar Panels?
Level-up your energy independence by investing in a solar energy battery. Solar power and the technology surrounding it can be confusing. Not sure if you need a battery for your solar panels? Here’s your go-to guide to battery storage!
Key Benefits of Solar Battery Storage
Increased Energy Independence
Reduced Electricity Bills
Backup Power During Outages
Maximises the self-consumption of solar energy
The advantages of installing a solar battery
- Renewable energy storage solutions help you save on your energy bill
- Become more ‘energy independent’: you will have reduced reliance on the national electricity grid by producing, storing and using your own energy
- Reduce your carbon footprint by using your solar energy storage, not importing from the grid
- They can enable you to take advantage of cheap-rate electricity
- Good for your wallet: some energy companies pay to use your battery to store excess electricity from the grid
- Solar battery backup power during outages
- They typically require little maintenance and usually take half a day to install
- You can ‘retrofit’ it, you can add your battery later once your panels are up and running
The disadvantages of installing a battery
- Battery storage units can be expensive to install
- It takes substantial investment to go completely off-grid with a battery, most people opt for a hybrid solution
- Storage units take up space; typically falling within the size range of a thin suitcase to that of a tall fridge freezer unit
- Backup functionality (energy storage for use in the event of a power outage) costs extra
Got a question about solar power? Chat to our trusted professionals on our free forum here!
Join the debate: Do I need to get a battery with my solar panels?
Types of Battery Storage Systems for Solar Panels
| Lithium-ion Batteries | Lead Acid Batteries – flooded | Lead Acid Batteries – sealed |
| 4kWh battery costs £4,000 | 4kWh battery costs £2,000 | 4kWh battery costs £2,000 |
| Lasts for 10-15 years | Lasts for 5-7 years | Lasts for 3-5 years |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Battery Storage
- Property size
- Energy consumption levels in the property
- How powerful your solar panel system is
- How many battery cycles (times is can charge and discharge) before the battery starts to degrade
- Whether you plan to create an off-grid solar system
What is Solar Together & who is it for?
Thinking of getting solar panels and a battery? Check out the Solar Together scheme!
If you are a resident of these council areas, including Bath and North East Somerset (BANES) and Bristol City Council, you can join Solar Together to group-buy solar panels and batteries for the best price. If your council is part of the scheme and you own your residence (or have permission from the landlord), you can register to get solar panels & batteries at the best price, from trusted installers and with personalised recommendations.
How does it work? Group-buying means you have enhanced buying power which allows the approved providers to offer a better price than individual homeowners might get from entering the market alone.
Why now? Registration for the scheme is open from 19th August 2024 and is available to homeowners and small-to-medium enterprises. Registration closes on 15th November 2024.
How do I contact Solar Together? Visit their website here. Or contact their helpdesk here.
What have people said about Solar Together?
It was a tidy and very well organised process. No problems at all from start to finish. – Alan from Galleywood, Essex
Very pleased. It really makes a dent in our carbon footprint as a family and particularly in the summer months makes a massive saving as well energy costs. – Rosie from Stapleford, Cambridgeshire
We now have reduced reliance on the National Grid. Brilliant! – Keith from Sheerness, Kent
Solar Battery FAQs
How long do solar batteries last?
The Eco Experts indicate that lithium-ion batteries last between 10-15 years, and lead acid batteries between 3-7 years depending on type.
Can I add battery storage to my existing solar panel system?
Yes, you can easily retrofit a battery to your existing solar panel system. Depending on the type of inverter your panels are using, you’ll need to choose either an AC-coupled or DC-coupled battery. Always gather multiple quotes and advice to ensure you know how best to proceed with this.
What size battery storage do I need?
The size of your battery will depend on the size of your home and energy consumption. W can estimate the correct size based on the number of bedrooms you have.
Read more from the Eco Experts: HERE
Can a solar battery be too big?
Yes, a battery which is too big to properly charge can lead to poor performance. Seek expert advice on the size of your battery.
Want to know if solar panels or batteries can improve your home?
Retrofit West can help you decide your next steps! Call us on 0800 038 6733, or email advice@retrofitwest.co.uk to start your own sustainable journey.
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