Is it worth getting a solar storage battery?

A solar battery allows you to store electricity produced by your solar panels and use it later or, in some cases, sell it back to the grid to make a few quid – but they're not cheap. Read on to see if it's worth getting a solar storage battery for your home... This is the first incarnation of this guide.

What is a solar battery?

Solar batteries are designed to work with solar panel systems. It's a device that stores the electricity you generate (but don't use immediately) from your solar panels, allowing you to then use that electricity later in the day.

Do I need a solar battery storage system?

However, if you already have solar panels, you’ll need an AC (alternating current) battery. This is much easier to retrofit to an existing system, as it’s connected via the electricity meter, but it also requires an additional inverter. You should always seek professional help when choosing and installing a solar battery storage system.

Why do I need battery storage for solar panels?

By clicking a retailer link you consent to third-party cookies that track your onward journey. If you make a purchase, Which? will receive an affiliate commission, which supports our mission to be the UK's consumer champion. Battery storage for solar panels helps make the most of the electricity you generate.

What type of battery should a solar panel system use?

Consider using a combination of battery types for optimized energy storage. Lithium-ion batteries are popular choices for solar panel systems due to their efficiency and performance. They store energy generated by solar panels, providing a reliable power source when needed.

Can solar power be stored in a battery?

Existing solar systems typically have solar inverters which change the DC power produced by panels to AC power that can be consumed in your home or exported onto the grid. But if you want to store that AC power in a battery, it needs to be inverted again to DC power.