A solar panel system that stores energy for when you need it most is a game-changer. Pairing your solar PV panels with the right battery ensures you can make the most of the energy you generate, reducing reliance on the grid even further and resulting in even more savings on your energy bills.
Choosing the right battery is all about balance, it should complement your solar panel output and match your daily household usage. A correctly sized system keeps upfront costs lower and maximises efficiency, reducing your return on investment.
Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the correct solar battery for your solar PV system.
What is a Solar Battery?
A solar battery, also called a battery energy storage system (BESS), stores electricity generated by your solar panels that isn’t being used immediately. This means you can use your generated electricity even when the sun isn’t shining, at night, on a cloudy day or when your generation is lower than your usage.
A solar battery is a vital part of a solar PV system and choosing the right size ensures it performs well and lasts longer. A battery that is too small will be overworked, potentially reducing its lifespan, while a battery that is too large will lead to higher upfront costs that are unnecessary and take longer to pay off in returns.
The perfect solar battery is one fitted that covers your usage and household energy habits.
How Are Solar Battery Sizes Measured?
Solar battery capacity is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh), making it easier to compare to your household energy usage which is billed in kWh. Another important fact is the Depth of Discharge (DoD). This is the proportion of stored energy you can safely use – most modern batteries allow 90%-95% of their total capacity to be used reliably.
Why the Right Size Matters
- Optimal Performance
A correctly sized battery ensures your energy storage matches your generation and consumption patterns.
- Meeting Your Energy Needs
The main goal of a solar battery is to provide you with power when your panels aren’t generating enough electricity. Choosing the right size guarantees round the clock free power rather than relying on expensive grid power.
- Financial Efficiency
Oversized or undersized batteries can increase costs and delay your return on investment. The right size balances installation costs with long-term energy savings, making your solar system more cost-effective.
- Future Scalability
Your energy needs may grow over time, due to adding an EV (electric vehicle), high energy appliance or device or your household growing in size. A modular or stackable battery system allows you to increase capacity as your household usage increases or you add more solar PV panels to your system.
Power Your Home with SolarTherm UK
Ready to take control of your household energy? At SolarTherm UK we offer high-quality, stackable Voltsmile batteries, that can be customised to your household needs. Our batteries are designed to grow with your home and lifestyle, making it easier to expand your system in the future if needed. Find out more about Voltsmile solar batteries here.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke design package, tailored for your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
