Why adding storage to your solar system might be worth investing in.
To store or not to store, that is the question homeowners often ask themselves when deciding on the components of their solar system. Truth is, batteries aren’t for everyone. It really comes down to analysing energy usage and the cost of a battery to determine if it’s worth it. An experienced solar installer can help you figure it out and make the right call. In the meantime, let’s shed a little light on what solar batteries have to offer.
How do solar batteries work
Normally, when a solar system produces more electricity than is being consumed the excess is transferred to the grid in exchange for credits. Conversely, when it doesn’t produce enough electricity, power is drawn from the grid. When you throw a solar battery into the mix, the excess energy that is generated is stored. And when the system doesn’t produce enough electricity it uses this stored energy to power a home.
The benefits of adding a solar battery to a system
- Energy Independence
Solar batteries allow you to control how the energy generated by your solar system is used. They make your home resilient and reduce dependency on the grid. Additionally, solar panels stop producing electricity when the grid is down to prevent feedback. However, when a battery is installed, panels continue to power your home, even during an outage – storing the excess is the battery.
- Reduce energy bills
Installing a solar battery helps reduce the amount of power you draw from the grid consequently helping you save on electricity bills. If your electricity supplier uses time-of-use rates, a battery makes all the more sense as the price of power varies according to the time of day. In this situation you can choose to use stored energy when electricity is most expensive for more savings.
- Reduce carbon footprint
Storing solar energy automatically means you use more clean and green energy, and reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, your solar system uses fewer resources annually and produces little to no waste or pollution. It is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to nurturing a healthier environment.
- No noise pollution
Solar batteries do not make noise in the same way a generator does. It ensures that you and your neighbours are undisturbed and cuts down on noise pollution too.
Should you opt for a solar battery?
As we mentioned earlier, it depends on a number of factors. Batteries are expensive and in some situations it is just not worth it- for instance if you live in an area with full-retail net metering. There is also the type and capacity of the battery to consider as well as where you are installing it. The best thing to do is consult an experienced solar battery provider and installer who can analyse your energy requirements and help you find the right fit.
Solar batteries have a lot to offer and with new innovations and price reductions they could become a worthwhile addition to every solar system, helping all of us make the most of solar power and contribute to creating a sustainable future.
