Solar batteries are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners with a solar panel installation across Essex, Kent and the wider South East. Solar batteries store excess solar energy for you to use during the evenings or when your usage is higher than your generation, further reducing your reliance on the grid. They can also be charged on cheaper overnight tariffs, helping you to reduce your energy costs further.
What Is Solar Battery Storage?
A solar battery is a large lithium ion pack that stores the excess energy generated by your solar panels during the day. Instead of exporting unused electricity back to the grid, your solar battery stores this surplus for use in the evenings, when your panels aren’t producing electricity.
The smart storage systems use similar technology to electric vehicle batteries and cheap off-peak tariffs can be used to charge your solar battery during off-peak hours, letting you take advantage of cheaper overnight tariffs and exporting excess electricity during the day.
In addition, if you have an Emergency Power Supply (EPS) installed, your solar battery can backup your power during the event of a power failure on the grid, keeping essential appliances running.
How Do Solar Batteries Work?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Your solar panels generate power during daylight hours
- Your home uses what it needs and any excess energy flows into the battery instead of going back to the grid
- The stored energy is released later, typically in the evening or overnight
- An inverter converts the stored power from DC (direct current) to AC (alternate current)
At SolarTherm UK we install Voltsmile batteries, which are modular and stackable, allowing you to expand your storage as your energy needs grow.
Choosing the Right Solar Battery Size
At SolarTherm UK our expert design team can help go through all the options with you including costs and payback period. A correctly sized system can provide impressive long term savings, especially if your home is using more electricity in the evenings or overnight. A battery that’s too small might not meet your needs, while an oversized battery may never fully charge or incur a longer payback period.
How Are Solar Batteries Installed?
The Voltsmile V10 series batteries are usually installed inside your home, such as a utility room or garage, or alternatively we can install the Voltsmile W1 battery on an external wall. Solar batteries must be installed in a cool, accessible location and always by an MCS certified installer to ensure maximum safety, performance and warranty protection.
Finding a Trustworthy Installer
Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment. When choosing your solar battery installer look for a company that is MCS certified and members of RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) or HIES (Home Insulation & Energy Systems Quality Assured Contractors Scheme). Look for a company that is transparent with their pricing, warranties and savings estimates, at SolarTherm UK we are proud Gold Members of EPVS, ensuring our quotes are checked for accuracy by a third party.
At SolarTherm UK, we pride ourselves on being fully accredited and trusted by homeowners across the country. We provide free home assessments, detailed quotes and ongoing aftercare to ensure your system performs at its best for years to come.
Should You Invest in Solar Battery Storage?
If your home uses a lot of energy, especially in the evening, and you already have solar panels or are planning to install them, then a solar battery can be a smart investment. It helps you use more of your own clean energy, protecting you against rising energy costs and further reducing your reliance on the grid.
A solar battery can be charged via the grid using cheap overnight tariffs, if your solar array can’t generate enough electricity to cover your daily usage, installing a solar battery may help reduce your bills. Making sure your battery storage system is large enough to cover your daily usage will help you save more on your energy bills.
Start Your Solar Journey with SolarTherm UK
At SolarTherm UK, we design and install high efficiency solar panel and battery systems across Essex, Kent, London and the wider South East, helping homeowners cut costs and carbon emissions at the same time.
If you’re ready to find out whether solar battery storage is right for you, our friendly team can provide expert advice. 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.
FAQs
What is a solar battery?
A solar battery stores the excess energy your solar panels produce during the day, so you can use it later when the sun isn’t shining. It helps you make the most of your renewable energy and reduces your reliance on the grid.
Do I need solar panels to have a solar battery?
While you can install a solar battery without panels and charge it from the grid, it’s far more effective and economical when paired with solar panels. This way, you can store your own free, clean solar energy.
How long do solar batteries last?
Most solar batteries come with a 10-year warranty but can often last 15–20 years, depending on usage, quality, and how well they’re maintained.
How much does solar battery storage cost in the UK?
Solar batteries typically cost £2,500–£6,000, depending on the brand and capacity. Installation costs can add around £3,000, but combining it with a new solar system is usually more cost-effective.
What size solar battery do I need for my home?
- Small homes: 3-5kWh
- Average homes: 5-10kWh
- Larger homes or EV/heat pump users: 10-15kWh
- At SolarTherm UK, we assess your property and advise on the best sized battery for your usage
Will a solar battery save me money?
Yes — especially if you use more electricity in the evenings or have an EV or heat pump. By using stored solar energy instead of grid electricity, you can reduce your bills and protect yourself from rising energy prices.
Can a solar battery power my home during a blackout?
Some solar batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall or similar systems, can provide backup power during outages — keeping essential appliances running even when the grid is down.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar system?
Absolutely. Most modern solar setups can be upgraded to include battery storage. Our expert team can assess your current system and recommend the best battery solution.
What kind of maintenance does a solar battery need?
Solar batteries are generally low-maintenance. Regular system checks from a qualified installer ensure everything’s performing safely and efficiently.
Why choose SolarTherm UK for battery installation?
SolarTherm UK is MCS-certified and trusted by homeowners across the country. We offer professional design, installation, and aftercare services — ensuring your solar + battery system delivers maximum efficiency and savings for years to come.
