Should I install a solar battery? Six factors to consider
Adding battery storage to your solar power system can maximise your solar investment. A battery helps reduce your reliance on the grid by storing the excess solar energy you have not used during the day and saving it for later use: at night, on low sunlight days, when utility rates are more expensive or during blackouts, allowing you to save more on your energy bills.
However, whether a battery is a worthwhile investment for you depends on a few factors. In this article, we will explore the key considerations to keep in mind if you’re thinking of installing a battery system.
1. What is your daily energy consumption, and when does it occur?
A battery is a smart investment to add to your solar power system, particularly if you use higher amounts of energy at night or when electricity costs are high during peak hours. You can tap into the energy stored by your battery when you need it, protecting yourself from rising electricity costs.
An average Australian household consumes approximately 16 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy daily, with roughly 70% of this usage happening from late afternoon to night. Depending on a number of factors, a battery system with a storage capacity ranging from 10kWh to 14kWh might be appropriate for storing energy to be utilised during this timeframe
However, with the electrification of more appliances, a larger or scalable battery may be suitable taking into account your future needs. Solahart Darling Downs will work with you to determine which system is right for you depending on your energy habits and bills.
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2. What is the size of your solar power system?
A home battery is suitable for larger solar power systems as they often produce more energy than you consume during the day. If your system is too small, the battery will not store much – or any – excess solar power, meaning you may not see a return on your investment.
Typically, a 5kW system is the minimum size required to produce enough power to at least partially charge the battery. However, Solahart recommends a larger system so you can produce and store enough power to further reduce your reliance on the grid. Solahart Darling Downs can provide you with a solution that best fits your energy requirements and budget.
3. Do you live in an area prone to blackouts or extreme weather events?
Some home battery systems can ensure a reliable power supply if you live in an area prone to blackouts or extreme weather events. Choosing a battery that backs up essential circuits such as your kitchen, is important.
4. How do the long-term savings compare to your current electricity costs?
Ensure you have a clear understanding of your upfront budget. Compare your current electricity costs with the expected long-term savings you will achieve with a battery. Additionally, assess the installation and maintenance costs of the battery against your expected savings. Solahart Darling Downs can also assist you with this.
5. Will you be increasing your energy usage in the future?
It is also important to consider your future energy needs. If you anticipate your energy use will continue to grow over the coming years, a battery – especially a scalable option such as the GoodWe Lynx F G2 Series High Voltage Battery – is a worthwhile investment.
Consider the following questions:
- Do you expect your family to grow over the next few years?
- Do you plan to purchase an electric vehicle?
- Do you have any other high energy-consuming appliances, such as a pool or an air conditioner?
- Do you plan to switch from gas to electricity?
- Would you consider changing your conventional water heater to a solar-smart electric water heater? Solahart PowerStore, Australia’s first smart connected water heater, is an excellent option as it uses excess solar power and stores it like a battery. The difference is it stores this excess solar power in the form of hot water.
6. Reducing your carbon footprint
Switching to a home battery system is a smart way to offset your carbon emissions further. By using excess solar energy, you directly contribute to fewer fossil fuels being consumed.
With a range of batteries on the market, selecting the right option can take time and effort. Solahart Darling Downs will advise whether a battery is suitable and discuss the option that is right for you depending on your needs. If you have any questions or would like to organise a free in-home assessment, contact Solahart on 1300 721 984 or via the form below.
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Whether you need a simple solution to get back into hot water quickly, a solar water heater from day one, or the option to upgrade to energy-saving solar in the future, you’re in control.
And no matter which option you choose, enjoy the extra peace of mind with a 10-year cylinder warranty.
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