With energy prices on the rise and more people looking to go green, battery storage systems are becoming a hot topic. These systems let you store the electricity your solar panels generate during the day, which you can then use in the evenings or during high-usage times. This gives you the ability to tap into your own solar energy whilst cutting down your energy bills and carbon footprint. Sounds good, right
But with so much change in the energy market, you might be wondering: is now the right time to invest in home solar battery storage?
How do solar batteries work, and are they worth it?
Think of a solar battery as an energy and cost saving tool. Instead of sending excess electricity from your solar panels back to the grid, you store it for later. When energy demand (and prices) are higher, you can draw on this stored electricity instead of buying it at premium rates. Beyond saving you money, this setup also reduces your reliance on the grid, which can be a relief during uncertain times.
Even if you don’t have solar panels yet, battery storage systems can still make sense. You can charge them during off-peak hours using tariffs like Economy 7 and draw on that cheap electricity during peak times. So, they’re a smart option, with or without solar panels!
Why combining battery storage with solar panels is a smart move
While battery storage alone has its perks, pairing it with solar panels gives you maximum bang for your buck. By using more of your own solar-generated electricity, you can cut down on energy bills even further and boost your energy independence.
A typical solar and battery storage system can save households anywhere between £600 and £1,000 a year, depending on the system size, energy habits and location. And with battery prices continuing to drop and efficiencies improving, the return on investment is looking better and better.
How smart is your battery storage system?
The latest battery storage systems aren’t just about storing electricity. With intelligent charging features and easy-to-use smartphone apps, you can monitor your energy consumption in real time and optimise the system to get the best results. Imagine being able to set your battery to charge during off-peak hours or using excess solar power to charge an electric vehicle.
This smart tech also means you’re future-proofing your setup for any upgrades down the line, like EV chargers or home heat pumps.
Things to consider before making the jump to solar batteries
Before diving in, it’s important to weigh a few key factors:
- Price trends and technology advancements: Battery costs are coming down as technology improves and modular battery solutions can grow with your needs. That means if you install one now, you can always add to it later if your energy demands increase.
- Government policies and incentives: Although the Feed-in Tariff is a thing of the past, schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) still let you earn money by selling surplus electricity back to the grid. And there are whispers of new incentives for battery storage systems on the horizon, which could make these systems even more appealing.
- Energy independence and market volatility: With energy prices all over the place lately, having a bit of energy independence is becoming more attractive. A battery system can insulate you from price spikes, offering stability and peace of mind.
Why now might be the perfect time to invest
So, why invest in solar battery storage now? Here are some key reasons:
- Cost savings: Combining solar panels and a battery system can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. And if you can charge your battery during off-peak times, those savings can be even bigger.
- Long-term investment: These systems typically come with long warranties and can last up to 15 years or more, giving you reliability and peace of mind.
- Environmental impact: With the push towards renewables, investing in battery storage helps you use more clean energy and contribute to a greener planet.
So, is it worth the investment?
To wrap it all up, investing in a solar battery storage system now can offer substantial financial benefits, energy independence and a reduced environmental impact. With prices coming down and smart tech on the rise, this is an investment that pays off now and future-proofs your home against rising energy costs.
At Oakray Renewables, we’re all about providing tailored energy solutions. Our systems are designed with your current and future needs in mind, ensuring optimal performance and long-term savings. If you’re curious about taking the next step, get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation chat.
