Choosing the Right Solar Battery

At Plug Me In, we’re passionate about helping you harness the power of the sun to light up your home and achieve greater energy independence. Did you know that 90% of the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems we sell and install include a battery? Among these, most customers choose 10 kWh batteries, which strike a practical balance between performance and cost-effectiveness for an average home. Choosing the right battery requires careful consideration. When it comes to battery size, bigger isn’t always better. In this blog, we’ll explore the role solar batteries play, what size options are available, and how to decide which is best for your home.

 

 

The power of solar batteries 

 

Batteries are an integral part of a solar setup, allowing you to store the energy generated during sunny days for use at night or on overcast days. They are generally sized in multiples of 5 kWh blocks, with each kilowatt-hour (kWh) representing the energy a battery can store and deliver when fully charged. For instance, a 5 kWh battery can power a 1 kW load (such as ten 100-watt light bulbs) for five hours, while a 10 kWh battery can do the same for ten hours. For those seeking the ultimate in performance, we also install Tesla batteries, which have a 13.5kWH capacity and are renowned for their cutting-edge technology and efficiency. 

 

 

Adding a battery to your solar PV system enhances its functionality in several ways. Batteries allow you to store excess energy that would otherwise be sent back to the grid, giving you greater control over how and when you use the power your system generates. They also provide energy security, keeping your home powered during outages, and help you reduce reliance on the grid, which can lead to significant long-term savings. 

 

 

For households with high energy usage, however, there might be limited financial advantages to owning a battery, as the initial investment is substantial. Thankfully, the cost of solar batteries has come down significantly, and are now VAT zero-rated for domestic solar installations, which means adding a battery has never been more affordable. Having said that, if budget is a consideration, a battery can always be added at a later date. You solar PV system, will still save you money and help you contribute to a greener future.

 

 

Choosing the right battery size

 

When it comes to choosing a battery size, bigger is not always better. Larger batteries come with higher costs, so finding the right size for your needs and budget is essential. The good news is that battery systems are scalable - you can start with a 5 or 10 kWh battery and add another later if your energy needs increase. However, it’s important to note that while adding capacity increases the amount of energy stored, the discharge rate of your battery will still depend on your inverter.

 

 

The ideal battery size for your solar PV system depends on your household’s energy consumption, budget and future energy needs. For smaller households with modest energy demands, a smaller battery may be sufficient and more cost-effective. On the other hand, larger households with higher energy consumption or plans to charge an electric vehicle may benefit from a larger battery. Planning for future needs, such as appliance upgrades or increased energy usage, ensures your battery system remains efficient in the long term.

 

 

Helping you find the perfect fit

 

At Plug Me In, we’re here to help you navigate the process of selecting the right battery for your solar setup. Whether you’re looking to offset energy costs or achieve complete energy independence, we’ll work with you to design a system that fits your needs today and grows with you in the future. With the right solar battery, you can maximise the potential of your solar system, reduce your energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable planet.

 

 

Solar batteries are more than just a backup - they’re a gateway to a smarter, greener way of living. Contact Plug Me In today to learn more about how we can help power your home effectively and efficiently by the sun.