Battery storage is a system that allows homeowners to store excess energy generated from solar panels for later use. With solar energy systems, you typically generate more electricity during the day than you need, especially when the sun is shining brightly. Battery storage allows you to capture this surplus energy and store it for use at night or during cloudy days, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your energy costs.
In this article, we’ll explain the basics of battery storage, how it can save you money, the different types of batteries available, and some of the leading battery brands on the market today.
How Does Battery Storage Save You Money?
Battery storage can help save you money in several ways:
- Maximising Self-Consumption: By storing excess solar energy, you can use it throughout the day or night instead of drawing electricity from the grid. This reduces your reliance on electricity suppliers and the amount you pay for energy.
- Avoiding Peak Charges: Many energy suppliers charge higher rates during peak demand hours (typically in the evenings). With a battery storage system, you can use the stored energy during these expensive times instead of purchasing from the grid.
- Grid Export Payments: Some battery systems allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid. By managing your stored energy, you may be able to increase your savings or even earn extra income.
- Energy Independence: Battery storage reduces your dependency on external sources of electricity, making your home more self-sufficient, especially in the event of power cuts or blackouts.
The Difference Between AC, DC, and Three-Phase Batteries
Battery storage systems can vary in the way they interact with your solar energy system. The three main types of batteries are AC, DC, and Three-Phase batteries. Here’s what you need to know about each:
1. AC Batteries (Alternating Current Batteries)
- How They Work: AC batteries are connected to the AC side of your home’s electrical system. These batteries store energy from the grid or solar power in AC form, which is the type of current used in most homes.
- Best For: Homes with an existing solar power system that need a simple, easy-to-install storage solution.
- Advantages: AC batteries tend to be simpler to install as they do not require changes to the solar panel system, making them a good choice for retrofit installations.
2. DC Batteries (Direct Current Batteries)
- How They Work: DC batteries store energy in the form of direct current, which is the type of current produced by solar panels. These batteries store excess solar energy directly from your panels before it is converted into AC by an inverter.
- Best For: Homeowners with new solar installations looking for optimal energy efficiency and maximum use of their generated solar power.
- Advantages: DC systems typically offer higher efficiency because the energy is stored in the same form it’s generated, reducing the need for conversion.
3. Three-Phase Batteries
- How They Work: Three-phase batteries are designed for homes with a three-phase power supply, which is typically found in larger homes or properties with high energy demands. These systems store and distribute energy in a way that balances power across the three phases of your home’s electrical grid.
- Best For: Large homes, businesses, or properties with higher electricity consumption.
- Advantages: Three-phase systems provide more balanced energy use and can deliver more power, making them suitable for properties with higher energy needs.
Popular Battery Brands on the Market
Several manufacturers offer battery storage solutions in the UK. Here are some of the most popular brands you should consider:
1. Puredrive
- Overview: Puredrive offers advanced battery storage systems that focus on reliability and high efficiency. Their products are designed to provide maximum energy savings and long-term performance.
- Notable Feature: Puredrive batteries are known for their long life cycles and a strong warranty, making them a great choice for homeowners seeking a durable solution.
2. Duracell
- Overview: Famous for their batteries, Duracell has expanded into the solar battery market with a range of high-performance storage systems. Their batteries are designed to offer excellent efficiency and longevity.
- Notable Feature: Duracell batteries come with a solid reputation for reliability, a key feature for homeowners looking for a trustworthy brand.
3. Giv-Energy
- Overview: Giv-Energy is an innovative UK-based brand providing both battery storage solutions and smart energy management systems. Their systems are user-friendly and designed to integrate seamlessly with solar energy setups.
- Notable Feature: Giv-Energy offers intelligent software that optimises energy usage, providing homeowners with detailed data on their energy consumption and savings.
4. Fox
- Overview: Fox batteries are known for their compact design and cost-effective price point. These systems offer solid performance and are often chosen by homeowners seeking an affordable entry point into battery storage.
- Notable Feature: The Fox brand is ideal for homeowners who want a reliable and budget-friendly storage solution.
5. Tesla Powerwall
- Overview: Tesla’s Powerwall is one of the most recognisable names in the battery storage market. Known for its sleek design and high performance, the Powerwall is a premium option with advanced features.
- Notable Feature: Tesla’s Powerwall can store a significant amount of energy and has a user-friendly app to monitor energy usage, making it a top choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
6. LG Chem
- Overview: LG Chem’s RESU battery storage systems offer excellent efficiency and performance. These batteries are particularly known for their compact size and reliability.
- Notable Feature: LG Chem batteries integrate seamlessly with existing solar systems and are well-regarded for their high efficiency.
7. Sonnen
- Overview: Sonnen offers premium battery storage systems with an emphasis on smart energy management. Their systems provide excellent monitoring capabilities and are perfect for those looking to optimise their energy use.
- Notable Feature: Sonnen is known for integrating their systems into a broader energy management platform, allowing homeowners to monitor and control their energy use effectively.
How Much Storage Do You Need?
The amount of battery storage you need depends on a few key factors:
- Your Energy Consumption: The more electricity your household uses, the more storage you will need. Generally, a battery with a storage capacity of 5–10 kWh is suitable for most average-sized homes. Larger homes with higher energy demands may need 10 kWh or more.
- Solar Panel Output: If you generate a lot of excess energy during the day, you may require a larger battery to store it for use at night. The more energy your solar panels produce, the bigger your battery should be to make the most of that surplus.
- Budget: Larger batteries are typically more expensive, so you need to balance your energy needs with your budget. Opting for a system that matches your consumption is key to getting the best value.
- Energy Independence Goals: If you want to become more independent from the grid or want a backup solution for power cuts, you may need a larger battery or a system that can provide power for extended periods.
Conclusion
Battery storage systems are a great way to maximise the efficiency of your solar panel setup, reduce your electricity bills, and make your home more energy-independent. Understanding the differences between battery types and choosing the right brand and capacity will ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Whether you’re interested in brands like Puredrive, Tesla, or Duracell, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.
If you’re considering installing a solar system with battery storage, it’s worth consulting with a solar energy expert to help you make the right choice for your home.