What is a Solar Battery?

Solar batteries help you get the most out of your solar panels, saving you money and helping increase your energy independence. They can shield you from the worst of energy price fluctuations and give you reliable electricity whenever you need it. But what is a solar battery? 

In this guide, our expert team breaks down what solar batteries are, how they work, the benefits and the limitations. Keep reading to find out more, or call us now on 01905 621777 to speak directly to an expert. 

What Is Solar Battery Storage?

Solar battery storage is designed to help home and business owners capture and store energy created by their solar panels for later use, rather than selling it back to the grid. This stored energy can be used later on, such as at night, to power your home or business. 

It also serves as a backup power source during grid outages, increasing your energy independence and stability. Storing your own electricity allows you to make greater use of it and can save you more money on your energy. 

The Difference Between Solar Generation and Storage

Solar generation and solar storage are linked, but they are two separate processes. Solar generation is where solar energy is captured via solar panels and converted into usable electricity with an inverter. Solar storage is the process of storing the converted energy in batteries so it can be used later on.  

What Happens to Unused Electricity Without a Battery

If you don’t have solar batteries installed, you can sell your unused energy back to the National Grid. This is done via a Smart Export Guarantee tariff with your energy provider. You need to have MCS-certified solar panels installed as well as a smart meter. Your energy provider will then effectively pay you for each surplus unit of electricity. These savings can add up, but are usually not as much as you could save by storing and using surplus energy yourself. 

How Solar Battery Storage Systems Work

Solar battery storage is a simple process, from generation to usage: 

01 – Electricity is Generated 

Your solar panels capture solar energy and convert it into usable AC electricity that can be used to power home appliances and lighting. 

02 – Solar Electricity Usage is Prioritised 

After it is generated and converted, your electricity system will prioritise the use of solar energy before drawing power from the grid. 

03 – Excess Energy is Identified 

Your solar system can identify when more energy is being produced than necessary. The surplus energy is redirected to your batteries for storage. 

04 – Battery Management Controls Storage 

An integrated battery management system will control how much energy is stored. This effectively keeps tabs on your batteries, ensuring they are not overcharged, deeply discharged or overheated. 

05 – Stored Energy is Used When Solar Output Drops 

When your panels begin to produce less energy, your management system will ensure stored energy is used before power is drawn from the grid. 

06 – The Grid Provides Backup if Needed 

Should your panels ever produce less energy than needed or your batteries be emptied, the grid can provide backup power, which will be charged at your normal tariff rate. 

07 – Surplus Energy May Still Be Exported 

If your batteries are ever fully charged and your property is using less energy than your panels are generating, you can still sell surplus energy back to the grid. 

Costs of Solar Battery Storage in the UK

The cost of solar battery installation will vary based on a range of factors, including: 

• Storage capacity – different batteries have various storage capacities measured in kWh, and higher capacity batteries will usually be more costly to install 
• Installation complexity – part of the cost of installation will be labour, which will increase if your batteries are more challenging to install, such as if your property is in a difficult location or has an unusual layout 
• Brand – there are several brands of solar batteries, and each charges different prices for its products, so the brand you select will impact your overall cost 

The best way to get an accurate estimate for your solar battery installation is to contact our expert team. Just call us on 01905 621777 to get a free quote.

Benefits of Installing a Solar Battery

Installing a solar battery at your property has a range of benefits, such as: 

Increased Self-Consumption of Solar Energy

Being able to store the solar energy you generate and use it later on allows you to make use of more of your own electricity. This dramatically reduces your household carbon footprint. 

Lower Energy Bills

Using more of the energy you generate can save you considerable amounts on your electricity bills. It limits the amount of energy you need to draw from the grid and usually provides bigger savings than selling your surplus energy. 

Backup Power Capability

Storing your surplus energy ensures you have a backup supply in the event of power outages, reducing your reliance on the grid. This makes your property more independent and resilient to fluctuations in an increasingly unpredictable market. 

Limitations and Trade-Offs

There are really only two limitations to solar battery storage systems, but it is worth being aware of them: 

• Upfront cost – solar batteries do require an upfront investment, but can deliver substantial long-term savings 
• Space consumption – batteries occupy extra space at your property, but are typically installed in out-of-the-way spots, such as in your garage 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do solar batteries last?

Solar batteries typically last between 10 and 15 years, depending on usage, capacity and quality. Usually, the more often your battery is charged and recharged, the faster it will wear out, but a robust battery management system will help extend its lifespan. 

Can a solar battery provide backup power during a power cut?

Absolutely. During a power cut, energy from your solar batteries can be used to keep lights on and appliances running. This gives you greater independence from the grid and is especially beneficial for businesses that rely on power continuity to avoid downtime. 

Will a solar battery save me money?

In most cases, yes. Solar batteries allow you to store more of the electricity generated by your solar panels, which shrinks your energy bills. You can usually save more money with solar batteries than by selling your energy back to the grid.

How do I choose the right solar battery for my home?

The right solar battery for your home will depend on the size of your property, your energy consumption, panel setup and budget. The best way to find the right battery is to speak to our expert team. Call us now on 01905 621777 to learn more. 

How much space does a solar battery need?

Solar batteries require relatively minimal space. The exact size of the batteries themselves varies, but they will also need 120cm in front for access and maintenance and 30cm to 1m around each side for ventilation. 

Ready to Make the Most of Your Solar Energy?

If you’d like to start making the most of your solar energy, save on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, contact our friendly team today for a free solar battery quote. We offer a range of advanced solar battery systems as well as solar panels with expert installation backed by a six-year guarantee on all workmanship. 
Get in touch by calling us on 01905 621777, emailing us at sales@rollingsrenewables.co.uk or filling out our contact form.