A homeowner in Dover, Kent was looking for a way to reduce their reliance on grid electricity, lower their household energy bills and make better use of renewable energy generated at home.
SolarTherm UK designed and installed a 4.50 kWp solar PV system, combining high efficiency Aiko solar panels with a 10.24 kWh Voltsmile W1 battery storage system. The installation provides the household with a reliable source of renewable electricity while allowing excess solar generation to be stored and used later in the day.
The Solar PV System
The completed installation consists of:
- 10x Aiko N-Type ABC Neostar 450W solar panels
- 10.24 kWh Voltsmile W1 battery
The 10 Aiko N-Type ABC Neostar panels provide a combined generation capacity of 4.50 kWp. Their high efficiency N-Type technology makes effective use of the available roof space while providing strong long term performance.
To complement the solar array, the homeowner chose a 10.24 kWh Voltsmile W1 battery. Rather than sending surplus solar electricity to the grid when household demand is low, the battery can store the excess generation for use when the panels are producing less electricity such as early mornings or evenings.
Maximising Solar Energy at Home
One of the key benefits of combining solar panels with battery storage is the ability to use more of the electricity generated by the system. Solar generation naturally varies throughout the day, while household demand can continue into the evening. The Voltsmile W1 battery helps bridge this gap by storing surplus renewable energy generated during periods of higher solar production.
This can help the household reduce the amount of electricity it needs to purchase from the grid and increase the overall value of its solar PV system.
Projected Financial Returns
Based on the system’s projected performance, the Dover installation is expected to deliver:
| Predicted year 1 savings | £1,070 |
| Estimated payback period | 8 years |
| Predicted 30 year savings | £73,417 |
With predicted first year savings of £1,070, the system is expected to pay for itself within approximately 8 years. Over the minimum 30 year lifespan, the installation could deliver in excess of £73,400 in total savings.
Actual savings will vary depending on household electricity consumption, energy prices, solar generation, battery usage and export rates.
A Smarter Approach to Home Energy
For this Dover homeowner, the combination of Aiko N-Type solar panels and Voltsmile battery storage provides more than simply renewable electricity generation. The system has been designed to help make better use of the energy generated on-site, reducing reliance on grid electricity and providing greater control over household energy costs.
With a projected £73,417 in savings over 30 years, this installation demonstrates the potential long term financial benefits of combining solar PV with appropriately sized battery storage.
6-Month Customer Feedback
Six months after installation, we asked the homeowner about their experience with their new solar PV and battery system.
When asked why they chose to invest in solar, their answer was straightforward:
“To save money on future bills.”
They were also positive about their experience with SolarTherm UK, commenting that there was “No particular reason” for choosing the company initially, but adding: “Glad I did.”
When asked what advice they would give to someone beginning their own solar journey, their recommendation was simple:
“Ask more questions.”
One of the most interesting outcomes from the first six months has been the homeowner’s growing understanding of their energy usage and the potential benefits of battery storage. They are now considering adding another battery, with the aim of having enough stored energy to help power their heating throughout the winter.
The homeowner also praised the installation itself, describing the workmanship as “very good” and highlighting that the work was completed quickly.
Thinking About Solar Panels in Dover or Kent?
Every property is different, which is why SolarTherm UK designs solar PV and battery systems around the property’s available roof space, energy requirements and future electricity usage.
If you’re considering solar panels in Dover, Kent or the wider South East or East Anglia, our team can assess your property and recommend a system that will provide reliable, long term savings.
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 – and the time you need to make an informed decision.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
