As the push toward renewable energy gains momentum, more Australians are investing in solar power systems for their homes. A critical component of these systems is the solar battery, which allows you to store the energy generated by your solar panels for use when the sun isn’t shining.
But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right solar battery for your home? To help you get it right, let’s go through what to look for in a solar battery, plus important factors to consider.
In this article, we’ll look at:
- Understanding battery performance
- Virtual power plants (VPPs)
- Battery warranties
- Installation location recommendations
Key things to look for in a solar battery
When it comes to choosing high-quality solar batteries, performance is everything. If you can understand the capacity, output and efficiency of different batteries, it’ll help you to understand what’s right for your property.
These factors will help you compare battery performance expectations between models:
1. Capacity
The capacity of a solar battery, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), is essentially how much energy it can store. This is important because it determines how much power you’ll have available when your solar panels aren’t producing electricity. Depending on your household’s energy consumption, you’ll need a battery with enough capacity to meet your needs.
2. Power output
Power output, measured in kilowatts (kW), refers to the amount of electricity a battery can deliver at any given moment. A higher power output means the battery can support more appliances running at the same time.
3. Depth of discharge (DoD)
The DoD indicates how much of the battery’s capacity you can use without shortening its lifespan. For example, a battery with a 90% DoD allows you to use 90% of its capacity before needing a recharge. Look for batteries with a high DoD so you can maximise their usable capacity.
4. Round-trip efficiency
Round-trip efficiency measures the energy efficiency of the battery. It represents the percentage of energy that can be retrieved from the battery compared to the energy stored. Higher round-trip efficiency means less energy is lost in the storage process.
5. Cycle life
Cycle life refers to the number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can handle before its capacity significantly degrades. Top-performing batteries have a cycle rating of at least 6,000 cycles, ensuring a long lifespan and more savings over time.
Learn more: Tips and Tricks for Optimising Your Solar Battery Storage System
Maximise savings with VPP participation
Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) are becoming increasingly popular in Australia as a way to maximise the benefits of a solar battery installation.
A VPP allows you to connect your property to a network of other ‘micro-generators’ (i.e. properties generating their own power), creating a virtual power plant that shares energy from property to property based on demand. When your demand is low but the sun is shining, your neighbour can use some of your power. When their demand is low but you need more, you can use some of theirs. This not only helps to stabilise the grid, but there are financial incentives too.
- Pro tip: If you’re in New South Wales and have a rooftop solar system, you might soon be eligible for the NSW battery rebate to install a home battery and connect it to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).
Learn more: What is a virtual power plant (VPP), and are they worth it?
Important things to know about solar batteries and VPPs
VPP and solar battery compatibility
Not all solar batteries are VPP-compatible. Before you purchase your solar battery, check whether it can be integrated into a VPP and what offers are currently available. VPP programs and incentives can vary, so it’s worth researching the options in your area.
This is something we can help with. Give us a call and we’ll chat to you about your property.
Additional savings
By participating in a VPP, you can trim your monthly utility bill by selling excess stored energy back to the grid. This can help you break even on your solar investment more easily, making your investment in a solar battery even more worthwhile.
VPP and warranties
Joining a VPP might void some solar battery warranties, so it pays to read the fine print before making any big decisions.
Understanding battery warranties
Solar battery warranties are something which should stay front of mind when making your purchase, helping to protect your battery investment and giving you a safety net in case something goes wrong. Some things to think about here include:
Warranty duration
Most home solar batteries come with warranties that range from five to 10 years. However, it’s essential to read the fine print as some warranties may be voided if the battery is used in certain ways.
Cycle rating and VPP compatibility
Many solar batteries with 10-year warranties have a cycle rating, which can reduce the warranty period if the battery is used in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). For example, in some cases, a 10-year warranty might be reduced to just seven years.
To maximise your savings, look for batteries which are built to handle VPP participation and have a higher cycle rating.
Performance guarantee
Some manufacturers offer performance guarantees that ensure the battery retains a certain percentage of its original capacity over the warranty period. For example, a performance guarantee might state that the battery will retain 80% of its capacity after 10 years. Keep an eye out in case you can get this extra promise!
Battery installation location
The location where you install your solar battery is important for both performance and longevity. Why? Here are some key points to consider:
Outdoor installation
Ideally, you should install your solar battery outside where it’s exposed to the elements. This not only saves space inside your home, but also allows for better cooling and ventilation for the battery – which can enhance its performance. Just make sure your battery is suitable for outdoor conditions when you purchase it.
IP65 rating
To safely install a battery outside, it should have an IP65 rating. This rating indicates that the battery is protected against dust and water, making it suitable for outdoor conditions.
Space and size
Solar batteries come in a range of different sizes, so it’s essential to consider where you’ll install them. Many homeowners place their batteries in out-of-sight locations, such as next to a water heater or the outdoor unit of their air conditioning system.
Visualising installation
If you’re unsure about where to install the battery, consult with a professional solar installer. They can give you examples from their previous installations to help you visualise how the battery will fit into your home. Photos of installations can be particularly helpful, giving you a better idea of the battery’s size and placement options.
Choosing the right solar battery for your property
Investing in a solar battery is a big decision that can have a lasting impact on your energy savings and sustainability efforts. By carefully considering key performance criteria, understanding warranties, exploring VPP participation and planning your installation location, you’ll find it easier to select a solar battery that meets your needs and maximises your savings.
Need help? Talk to an expert
Whether you’re looking for more information or you’re ready to make a purchase, our experts are here to help you navigate the options, answer questions and provide tailored recommendations to fit your home and energy goals.
Start your journey today by booking a no-obligations consultation and let’s talk about your property.
