Battery storage is now a crucial aspect of the renewables business following the removal of the FIT subsidy. Battery systems also help with the intermittent nature of renewable energy.

Without the subsidy, it is important to use as much of the solar power you generate as possible. Solar battery storage or many, this will mean installing a battery storage system or solar storage systems to complement your solar panels, and helping you maximise self consumption and reduce electricity bills.

With affordable battery storage systems now available, any surplus energy generated by your solar panels during the day (which would otherwise have been exported)  can now be stored for use when the solar panels stop generating and electricity demand in the home increases  – usually when people get home from school and work. A storage system therefore helps to maximise self-consumption and cut your bills.

Battery storage is not just ideal for new solar installations, it can also be added to existing systems.

We have been installing battery storage systems for years and have customers who are now only buying approximately 25% of the annual electricity demand.

As with all our installations, we only offer quality products from leading international manufacturers which whom we have a long established relationship and have been accredited.

Most systems come with a 10 year warranty and all come with a comprehensive web based monitoring platform that enables you to monitor and manage the system.

Battery storage systems operate similarly to conventional batteries commonly found in everyday devices such as torches or TV remotes. Whether charged by solar panels or the grid, they provide autonomous home power and significant cost savings.

For homes with solar panels, any surplus electricity is typically sold back to the grid. If you require electricity when your solar panels are not actively generating power, you will then typically need to purchase it from the grid. However, by integrating a solar battery storage solution, you gain the ability to store any excess energy generated by your solar panels. This stored energy can be used at your convenience without incurring additional costs.

No solar panels? Not a problem, Home battery storage solutions extend their advantages to every home, regardless of whether solar panels are installed. During off-peak hours when energy costs are at their lowest, your battery quietly charges up. When electricity rates spike during peak hours, you can seamlessly switch to using the stored energy, effectively avoiding costly peak-hour charges. This technology empowers you to manage your energy consumption, save significantly on your bills, all while making a positive contribution to the environment.

Adding a battery to an existing Solar PV system

If you are looking to add battery storage to an existing Solar PV system, you will need an ‘AC Coupled’ arrangement.

You will already have one inverter that converts DC electricity from your solar panels into household AC electricity.

When you add a battery to your system, you will need a second inverter installed that converts that AC electricity (plus any AC electricity from the grid) back into DC electricity to charge your battery.

Installing a new Solar PV and Battery system

With this arrangement you only need one inverter which will work seamlessly with you solar panels and battery.

The electricity generated from the solar panels flows into the inverter as DC. The hybrid inverter then either converts it into AC to be sent to the house or the grid, or the inverter keeps the current as DC to be sent to the battery to charge it.

This type of set-up can only be used for a new solar system being simultaneously fitted with a battery storage system.

 Battery Types: Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are very popular with domestic solar storage systems.

• More efficient
• Faster charging
• More capacity
• More expensive
• Smaller and lighter
• Lifespan of 10+ years

Most lithium-ion batteries are equipped with the capability to charge from the grid to top up the batteries when they cannot reach full charge during from the solar alone – this is common in winter when the days are shorter and there is less solar irradiance available for the solar panels to generate enough electricity to charge the batteries. Keeping the battery topped up is important because incomplete charging can have an effect on the lifespan of your battery.

Lead-acid batteries are often used for energy independent properties, who live entirely off the grid, where more storage is needed.

• Considerably cheaper
• Less efficient
• Shorter lifespan (up to 7 years)
• Bigger and heavier
• More maintenance

The average solar PV system can last 25+ years, unfortunately, there aren’t any battery systems with that length of lifespan, so your battery system will need to be replaced within the lifetime of your solar system.

Battery storage involves using rechargeable batteries to store excess electricity generated from sources like solar panels or the grid. It provides benefits such as energy savings, backup power, and environmental sustainability, making it a wise choice for reducing energy costs and increasing resilience.

Battery storage systems function by storing electricity in batteries when there is excess supply, like during sunny days with surplus solar energy. This stored energy is then available for use during periods of high demand or when the primary power source is unavailable, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

Battery storage solutions come in various types, including lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, and flow batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are popular in the UK due to their high energy density, durability, and fast charging capabilities.

The lifespan of battery storage systems varies based on factors like the battery type and usage patterns. Generally, lithium-ion batteries used in residential and commercial settings can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer when properly maintained.

Not at all. Battery Storage Solutions work for all households or businesses, regardless of whether they have solar panels or not. Battery Storage allows you to charge up at a lower nightly rate and use the cheaper electricity during peak times where energy costs are typically 4x the price.

Absolutely. Battery storage complements solar panels seamlessly, allowing you to store surplus solar energy for later use. This enables you to maximise your self-consumption of solar energy and reduce reliance on the grid.

Yes, the UK government offers various incentives to promote renewable energy adoption, including battery storage systems. These incentives may include grants, tax incentives, and the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for surplus energy exported to the grid. Explore available schemes and consult with local authorities for details.

In the UK, you can potentially export excess energy back to the grid and earn money through the SEG. This allows you to receive payments for any surplus electricity you generate and feed back into the grid, providing an additional source of income.

Battery storage systems typically require minimal maintenance. Routine checks, battery capacity assessments, and ensuring proper ventilation are essential for optimal performance. Modern systems often include Battery Management Systems (BMS) for automated monitoring and maintenance.

Many battery storage systems in the UK are scalable, allowing you to increase your storage capacity as your energy demands increase. This flexibility ensures that your energy storage solution can adapt to your evolving requirements.

Selecting the ideal battery storage system depends on factors such as energy needs, budget, and specific requirements. We recommend contacting our expert team for a personalised assessment and tailored recommendations that align with your unique circumstances.

Battery storage solutions contribute to reducing carbon emissions by enabling efficient use of renewable energy sources like solar power. Using stored energy during peak demand periods helps decrease the reliance on fossil fuels and supports a greener and more sustainable energy ecosystem in the UK.

To estimate energy savings, you can consult with our experts. Factors such as your electricity usage, solar panel output, and grid electricity rates are considered when determining potential savings.

Battery storage can enhance the value of your property by increasing its energy efficiency and offering potential cost savings to future buyers. It also adds to the appeal of having a resilient and eco-friendly energy solution.

Many battery storage systems come with mobile apps or web-based platforms that allow you to monitor and control your system remotely, giving you real-time insights and control over your energy usage.