Project Overview
This project involved the installation of a high performance solar PV and battery storage system on a detached bungalow in Nacton, Suffolk. The homeowner was looking to significantly reduce energy bills, increase energy independence and future proof their property against rising electricity costs.
System Specifications
- System size: 6.23kWp
- Solar panels: 14 × Aiko N-Type ABC Neostar panels
- Battery storage: Voltsmile V5 – 5.12kWh
- Install date: November 2025
Performance and Savings
- Estimated annual generation: 5,214.51 kWh
- Predicted first year savings: £1,298.41
- Payback period: 7 years
- 30-year savings: £57,403.51
- Total return on investment: 469.04%
- 30-year CO₂ reduction: 12,269.56 kg
For context, solar systems in East Anglia typically generate around 850-1,100 kWh per kWp annually, meaning this system is performing in line with strong regional expectations.
The Challenge
The homeowner faced rising electricity bills and wanted a long term solution that would:
- Reduce reliance on the grid
- Maximise self-consumption of solar energy
- Provide resilience against future price increases
As a bungalow property, roof space was favourable, but optimising output and storage was key to achieving strong financial returns.
The Solution
SolarTherm UK designed a 6.23 kWp system paired with a 5.12 kWh battery, enabling the homeowner to:
- Generate clean electricity throughout the day
- Store surplus energy for evening use
- Reduce grid imports during peak tariff periods
The inclusion of battery storage is critical – without it, a significant portion of generated electricity would otherwise be exported rather than used onsite.
The Results
This installation delivers both immediate and long term value:
- Strong first year savings driven by high self-consumption
- Rapid 7 year payback, significantly outperforming typical UK averages
- Over £57,000 in lifetime savings, demonstrating the long term financial case for solar and battery storage
- Substantial carbon reduction, equivalent to removing thousands of kilograms of emissions
Homeowner Impact
The homeowner now benefits from lower and more predictable energy bills, with less exposure to energy price volatility – actually, the higher prices rise, the more the system will save them.
Battery storage gives them increased energy independence, with access to their self-generated free electricity around the clock and the ability to take advantage of time of use tariffs, meaning they will rarely need to import electricity from the grid during peak pricing periods.
Why This System Works
This project highlights three key principles of a high performing residential installation:
- Right sized system (6.23 kWp) maximises roof potential
- Battery integration increases self-consumption and savings
- High efficiency panels to boost overall yield
Together, these elements create a system that not only performs well technically, but delivers exceptional financial returns.
Find out how much you can save with solar and battery storage.
