The number one question we get asked when we explain to our customers that they can pair their solar PV installation with a solar battery is:
“Will it save me more money?”
It’s a great – and justified – question. The short answer is, yes.
You are already investing a large sum of money into a solar PV installation for your home. Often, this green transformation is to both save homeowners money on energy bills and increase the property value of their home. Adding a solar battery only increases the initial costs.
This article will cover:
What is solar battery storage?
A solar battery is a device that stores excess energy generated by solar panels for later use. It allows homeowners and businesses to maximise their use of solar power, reduce reliance on the grid and maintain backup power during unforeseen outages.
Just like a battery, it is designed as a source of power after it is charged. Effectively you will charge it up using your solar panels, and then use it to power your home, instead of using power from the grid. Equally, you can sell energy back to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) with the surplus electricity you have generated.
Selling power to the grid with Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
While much of the solar power can be used on-site, any excess can earn you money through the Smart Export Guarantee. SEG is a government-backed scheme which encourages solar PV households and businesses (with a system under 5MW) to sell surplus electricity back to the National Grid. In return, homeowners and businesses earn money for exporting their excess energy.
Payments will depend on suppliers, and energy companies set their own export rates so it can vary.
In 2024, Ofgem reported a total of 283,666 solar installations were registered to a SEG tariff and over £30m was paid out during this period.
Will a solar battery save you more money?
The main benefit of installing a solar battery is the additional cost savings. By generating your own power, you buy much less from the grid. This is a great option for homeowners who seek greater energy independence. Adding a battery maximizes these savings by letting you use stored solar energy at night instead of paying peak rates.
The table below details the average annual savings you can save depending on the solar battery size you choose to install:
|
Battery Size |
Annual Savings |
|
4 kWh |
£401 |
|
8 kWh |
£669 |
|
9.5 kWh |
£937 |
Over a system lifespan of 25+ years, this represents a solid financial return. In essence, after the payback point, the electricity generated is effectively free, yielding long-term savings. Importantly, generating your own power also acts as a hedge against future energy price rises, providing financial security as grid electricity tariffs increase.
What are the cost differences between a Solar PV installation and one paired with a solar battery?
A typical solar PV installation can cost between £4,500 and £8,000, depending on your supplier and the number of panels required to power your home. Unless you have a SEG tariff in place, any excess electricity will be sent back to the grid. This option is great for homeowners who expect to use the majority of their solar energy during the day.
The cost of a solar battery alone can vary between £3,000 and £7,000 depending on capacity, brand and any additional features you choose. As mentioned, installing a battery will achieve higher savings as the power generated can be stored and used at night, during peak hours, or sold.
|
Purchase |
Costs |
Ideal for: |
|
Solar PV Installation |
£4,000 - £8,000 |
Homeowners who use most of their electricity during the day |
|
Solar PV Installation and battery |
£9,000 - £15,000 |
Homeowners who want to achieve energy independence, lower reliance on the grid and store back up power (for outages, or peak times) |
Hear from one of our Solar PV Experts and Director of Private Sales, Gordon McDill:
“The rise in solar panel installations is a testament to the growing demand for renewable energy and energy independence. While solar panels alone offer significant savings, adding a battery can make an even bigger difference than many people realise. By storing excess energy for use, homeowners can maximise their savings, reduce reliance on the grid, and take full advantage of their renewable investment. The decision ultimately depends on individual needs and circumstances, but we would always recommend installing a battery to truly reap the rewards of transitioning to a renewable home."
Ready to start your journey to a renewable home?
To learn more about solar PV and battery installations, you can get in touch with our team here.
Based in Scotland, Green Home Systems is an award-winning, MSC accredited installer best placed to help you take control of your energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint with solar panel and battery installation.
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