Do I need a battery storage system?
Do I Need a Battery?
If you’re thinking about making the investment in solar energy, you might be wondering whether you actually need a battery storage system. To help you make a clearer decision, let's look at why batteries are popular, when they make sense, and whether you really need one.
How Batteries Work with Solar Panels
Solar panels generate electricity throughout the day, often producing more power than you use immediately. Without battery storage, any excess energy is sent to the National Grid. Whilst you do get paid for this exported energy, it’s often less valuable than using that same electricity yourself. Typically, 15p/kWh for exported energy, and ~24p/kWh for the exported energy.
With a battery system, instead of sending excess power back to the grid, you store it for use later, such as during the evening or overnight when your solar panels aren't generating any electricity. This significantly reduces the amount of electricity you buy from the grid, lowering your energy bills and boosting your savings.
Do I Really Need a Battery?
A battery storage system isn’t essential for solar to work effectively. Your solar panels will still generate electricity, and you’ll still benefit from lower energy bills without batteries. However, installing a battery greatly enhances your overall savings and gives you increased energy independence.
Batteries are the most expensive part of the solar system, however they're the easiest to economically justify- they often double your self-consumption (the bit where you save money) for ~25% extra cost on the original installation.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Hybrid Inverters
If you like the idea of a battery but your budget won't stretch to cover it right now, there’s a practical alternative. We often advise installing a hybrid inverter, also known as a 'battery-ready' inverter.
Hybrid inverters function exactly like standard solar inverters, but they're designed to integrate easily with batteries at a later date. By choosing a hybrid inverter from the start, you can add battery storage later without needing to change your inverter, making it cheaper and simpler to upgrade your system when you’re ready.
Make Extra Savings with Off-Peak Charging
Another advantage of battery storage is the ability to maximise savings by charging your battery from the grid during cheaper, off-peak electricity periods. Many energy suppliers now offer ‘time-of-use’ tariffs, which provide much lower electricity prices overnight or during certain windows of the day. By charging your battery during these low-cost periods, you can store inexpensive electricity and then use it during peak-rate times, significantly reducing your overall energy costs and potentially even earning you money by exporting excess energy back to the grid at a higher rate.
Reliable Backup During Power Cuts
Battery systems with a 'gateway' device can power your home independently during a power outage. When the grid goes down, the gateway instantly disconnects your home from the mains, enabling your battery and solar panels to continue operating safely and independently. This seamless switchover can ensure uninterrupted power to essential appliances and devices. If you rely on equipment like a CPAP machine, stair lift, or medication refrigerator, having a battery storage system with backup capability gives you peace of mind, knowing you’ll never be left without power when you need it most.
When Batteries Make the Most Sense
Battery storage is particularly beneficial if you:
Want maximum savings on your electricity bills.
Want protection against rising energy costs.
Use a significant amount of electricity in the evenings or overnight.
Suffer from power outages regularly
Have critical devices that need power during outages
If these points resonate with you, a battery storage system will likely add significant value to your solar investment.
At Creative Low Carbon, we're here to help you find the solution that best matches your needs and budget. If you're unsure whether battery storage is right for you, or you'd like tailored advice, don't hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today.
