As energy prices remain unpredictable and more homeowners across the South East invest in renewable energy, solar battery storage is becoming an essential part of modern solar systems. If you already have solar panels, or are planning an installation, understanding how battery storage works can help you maximise savings, increase energy independence and get more value from your system.
This beginner friendly guide explains solar battery storage in clear, practical terms.
What Is Solar Battery Storage?
Solar battery storage allows you to store excess electricity generated by your solar panels rather than exporting it back to the grid. That stored energy can then be used later in the day, during the evening or when solar generation is low.
Without battery storage, unused solar power is typically sent to the grid. With a battery, you keep more of your own electricity and reduce how much you need to buy from your energy supplier.
How Does Battery Storage Work?
During daylight hours, your solar panels generate electricity. This energy is used in your home to power your appliances, lights and devices. Any surplus power is then diverted into your battery storage system by your solar inverter.
When solar generation drops, for example in the evening, your home automatically draws electricity from the battery before importing from the grid. The process is fully automated and controlled by your solar inverter.
Key Benefits of Solar Battery Storage
Lower Electricity Bills
By storing and using more of your own solar energy, you reduce your reliance on the grid. This results in lower electricity bills and greater protection from rising energy prices.
Greater Energy Independence
Battery storage helps you take control of your energy use. You are less exposed to price volatility and less dependent on external electricity supplier.
Better Use of Solar Energy
Without a battery, much of your solar generation will be exported at lower rates than what you are importing electricity in at. Battery storage ensures that more of your free electricity is used directly in your home.
Backup Power (System Dependent)
Some battery storage systems can provide backup power during grid failures, keeping essential appliances running when the grid is down.
Access to Time of Use Tariffs
With battery storage you can take advantage of cheaper electricity with time of use tariffs, charging your battery with cheap overnight grid electricity to be used during peak cost evenings.
Is Battery Storage Worth It in the South East?
Homes in the South East benefit from some of the UK’s strongest solar generation levels. This makes solar battery storage particularly effective, as higher daytime generation creates more surplus electricity available to store and use later.
Battery storage is especially valuable if:
- You use more electricity in the evenings
- Your work away from home during the day
- You want long term protection against energy price increases
Can Battery Storage Be Added Later?
In most cases, battery storage can be added to an existing solar PV system. This makes it a flexible upgrade for homeowners who initially installed solar panels without a battery but now want to improve performance and savings.
A professional assessment by an MCS accredited installer is always recommended to ensure compatibility and correct system sizing. If your solar panels were installed on the original FiT scheme, it is possible to install battery storage but check with your FiT provider and installer before installation.
How Long Do Solar Batteries Last?
Most modern battery storage systems last between 10 and 15 years. Warranties typically reflect this lifespan, offering peace of mind and predictable long term performance.
At SolarTherm UK we install Voltsmile batteries which have a minimum lifespan of 15 years and come with a 10 year product warranty.
Is Solar Battery Storage Right for You?
Solar battery storage is not just for early adopters. It is now a practical, proven solutions for homeowners who want to:
- Reduce energy bills
- Increase self-consumption of solar energy
- Future proof their home against rising electricity costs
For many households across the South East, battery storage turns solar panels into a far more powerful and rewarding investment.
Take the Next Step
SolarTherm UK is your local expert on all things solar, from solar panel installation to battery storage upgrades. Whether you are new to solar or upgrading an existing system, or just want battery storage without solar panels, our expert team can guide you every step of the way.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
