Switching to solar power is a fantastic way to generate electricity for your home and reduce reliance on the National Grid. But what happens when the sun goes down or your solar panels produce more energy than you need?
That’s where solar energy storage comes in. Storing excess solar energy allows you to use it later, helping you to reduce waste and maximise cost savings. The best way to store solar energy at home is with solar battery storage systems, like the Tesla Powerwall.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of storing solar energy in a battery system to help you make an informed decision.
For advice on solar energy storage, contact the renewable energy experts at Cinergi. We are certified Tesla Powerwall installers serving homes and businesses throughout the South of England. Contact us today to book a consultation and discover how battery storage can help you get the most out of your solar power investment.
What happens to solar energy you don’t use?
When your solar panels generate more power than your home needs, the electrical energy has to go somewhere. Without a storage solution, the excess energy flows back to the National Grid. Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, UK homeowners can get paid for the electricity they export. Rates vary but are generally lower than what you pay for grid energy.
The alternative is to hang on to the surplus energy for use later on when your solar panels are producing less electricity, like at night or on darker days. This helps you reduce your reliance on the grid, cut your bills and make your home even more efficient.
What is the best way to store solar energy at home?
For most homeowners, the best way to store solar power is with a solar battery storage system like the Tesla Powerwall. This allows you to store surplus solar energy and use it when you need it, reducing your energy bills and keeping your home powered even during power cuts and peak demand times.
The Tesla Powerwall is one of the most efficient energy storage systems available. It’s a high-capacity battery storage system that automatically stores excess energy and supplies it back to your home when needed. As a Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer, Cinergi can help you integrate your solar panels with this smart technology for maximum efficiency and savings.
How long can solar energy be stored in batteries?
The length of time solar energy can be stored in a battery depends on the battery storage capacity, your home’s energy demand, and how much electricity your solar panels generate.
For example, the Tesla Powerwall 3 has a 13.5 kWh storage capacity, which is enough to power average homes overnight. Because the Powerwall uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries, which have a low self-discharge rate, it can hold its charge for a considerable time. The solar energy stored can potentially remain available for several days, although there will be a gradual loss of charge over time.
Benefits of storing excess solar power
If you’ve already invested in solar panels, adding a battery storage system is the next logical step.
Here’s why:
- Greater energy independence – With solar battery storage, you can use more of the energy you generate and rely less on expensive grid electricity.
- Lower energy bills – A battery helps you maximise savings by powering your home during peak times – when electricity is most expensive – so you spend less on your bills.
- Better return on investment – A battery helps you use more of your own energy instead of selling it back to the grid for less. This means bigger savings and a faster payback on your solar energy system.
- Backup during power cuts – With a battery like the Tesla Powerwall, you can keep the lights on during power cuts, providing extra security and peace of mind.
- Even greener – By using more stored solar energy and less grid power, you can reduce your home’s carbon emissions even further. Coupled with other renewable energy solutions like heat pumps, you can create a more sustainable, low-carbon home that’s both eco-friendly and cost-efficient.
Can I install solar panels without a storage system?
You don’t need a battery storage system to install solar panels. Even without solar storage, your panels can still help lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
But, if you want to maximise your energy production and use more of your own electricity, adding a solar battery is a smart investment.
Can you store solar energy without a battery?
A solar thermal system is an alternative way to store solar energy you don’t use. This system comprises either flat plate or evacuated tube panels, known colloquially as “collectors”, that are filled with heating fluid and connected back to either a domestic hot water cylinder, heat exchanger, or thermal store. However, these systems cannot generate electricity unless the collector is coupled with a photovoltaic panel (PV-T).
While a solar thermal system is useful for things like hot water and home heating while keeping costs low, it’s less versatile than battery storage, as it provides heat rather than electricity. A battery system is usually a better option as it is more efficient, allowing stored solar energy to power electrical appliances, day or night.
Looking for solar energy storage? Contact Cinergi
If you are ready to install a solar energy storage system, the Tesla Powerwall is a great choice.
At Cinergi, we’re a Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer, helping homeowners across the UK get the most from their solar storage systems. Whether you’re looking to install a new system or upgrade your existing one with storage solutions, we’re here to help.
Want to learn more? Contact us today to book a call with one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members.
