If you already have solar panels, or you are thinking about installing them, you may have heard people talking about battery storage. It is becoming more popular across UK homes, especially with energy prices still on people’s minds and more homeowners looking for ways to make the most of the power they generate.
But how does solar battery storage actually work, and is it worth having?
What Is Solar Battery Storage?
Solar battery storage does exactly what it sounds like. It stores the electricity your solar panels generate so you can use it later.
Without a battery, most homes use the solar energy they produce during the day and send any excess back to the grid. The problem is that many of us are out at work during daylight hours, so a lot of that energy goes unused in the home.
With a battery installed, any spare electricity your panels generate can be stored instead of exported. You can then use that stored power in the evening, at night or on cloudy days when your panels are not producing as much.
It is all about using more of the energy you generate yourself rather than relying on the grid.
How Does Solar Battery Storage Work?
The process is fairly straightforward once you break it down.
Your solar panels generate electricity when there is daylight. That electricity is converted into usable power for your home through an inverter. Your home will always use what it needs first.
If your panels are producing more energy than you are using at that moment, the excess power is directed into your battery rather than being sent straight back to the grid. The battery stores this energy safely until you need it.
Later on, when your panels are not generating enough electricity to cover what you are using, the battery automatically releases its stored energy. This helps power your home and reduces the amount you need to import from your energy supplier.
All of this happens in the background without you needing to switch anything manually.
What Are The Benefits Of Solar Battery Storage?
One of the main benefits is being able to use more of the electricity your solar panels generate. Instead of exporting unused energy during the day and then buying electricity back from the grid in the evening, you are using your own stored power.
This can help reduce your reliance on energy suppliers and make your bills more predictable. Many homeowners also like the idea of being a bit more self sufficient when it comes to energy.
Some systems can also be set up to charge from the grid at cheaper off peak times and then use that stored energy when prices are higher. This can be useful if you are on a time of use tariff.
There is also the environmental side. Using more of your own renewable energy helps lower overall demand on the grid and reduces your household’s carbon footprint.
Is Battery Storage Only For New Solar Systems?
Not at all. Battery storage can often be added to existing solar panel systems as well as new installations. If you already have solar panels, a battery can be a good upgrade to help you get more value from what you generate.
The exact setup will depend on the type of inverter and system you currently have, so it is always worth getting advice before making any decisions.
Things To Consider Before Installing A Battery
Battery storage is not a one size fits all solution. A few things to think about include:
- How much electricity you typically use
- When you are usually at home
- The size of your current or planned solar system
- Where the battery will be installed
- Your budget and long term plans
Batteries come in different sizes and capacities, so choosing the right one for your home is important. Too small and you may not store enough energy. Too large and you may not see the full value from it.
A proper assessment will help make sure the system suits your home and usage.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Solar battery systems are more complex than many people expect. They involve high voltage components, specialist equipment and integration with your existing electrical system.
A qualified electrician or solar installer will make sure everything is installed safely, set up correctly and tested properly. They can also advise on the best location for the battery and ensure the system meets current UK regulations.
This is not something we would recommend as a DIY project. Getting it right from the start will save time, money and potential issues later on.
Thinking About Adding Battery Storage?
If you already have solar panels or are planning to install them, battery storage is well worth considering. It can help you get more from your system and make better use of the energy you generate at home.
If you are looking into solar, batteries or any other electrical upgrades, it is always a good idea to choose a trusted local electrician. And if you are not sure what to look for, our guide on the dos and don’ts of hiring an electrician is a good place to start.
It will help you make sure you are choosing the right professional and getting the best value for your investment.
