What Is Home Battery Storage?

Optimising your home energy usage goes beyond the inclusion of solar panels; with a battery storage system, the potential for savings and efficiency is expanded significantly.

This system empowers homeowners to store energy economically by drawing electricity from the grid during low-demand, cost-effective periods.

Later, this stored energy can be utilised during peak hours, when energy prices surge, offering a practical solution to managing your electricity bills more efficiently.

But what exactly entails the operation of a battery storage system, and how can you leverage it to your advantage?

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the concept of battery storage, providing clarity on several pivotal questions that are frequently asked:

• What is battery storage and how does it work?

• Is my house suitable?

• What size battery do I need?

• How much does it cost?

• Do I need solar to have battery storage?

• Which is the best battery system?

PS We offer MCS-certified battery installation nationwide. Simply answer these questions, get your fixed price and arrange your free design.

What Is Battery Storage & How Does It Work? 

Home battery storage systems function similarly to other battery devices, serving as a reservoir for electrical energy.

This energy can be harvested from a couple of sources: firstly, from a solar panel setup, enabling you to maximise the utilisation of the energy you generate yourself.

Alternatively, energy can be drawn directly from the national grid during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, such as during the night. This stored energy can then be used during peak demand periods when electricity prices are higher, optimising your energy costs.

It's important to note that while the energy stored in these batteries is in DC (Direct Current) form, our homes operate on AC (Alternating Current). To bridge this gap, a device known as an inverter is required to convert DC into usable AC for your home's electrical system.

The good news is that most home battery storage systems are equipped with a built-in inverter, ensuring a seamless integration into your home's energy infrastructure without additional stress or complications.

Is My Home Suitable For Battery Storage? 

Indeed, nearly any home can accommodate a battery storage system. The primary consideration is the availability of space for installation, as most battery storage units require an area no larger than that of a standard holiday suitcase. These systems offer flexible placement options, being suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.

For those intending to leverage the battery storage system to capitalise on lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, the installation of a smart meter is essential.

This device allows you to monitor and manage your electricity usage more effectively. If you do not already have a smart meter, rest assured that your energy provider can install one at no additional cost to you, making the process straightforward and cost-effective.

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We’re proud to be Tesla Certified Installers, MCS accredited and Which? Trusted installers with over 10,000 glowing reviews on Trustpilot. Discover why so many trust us for their solar panel & battery storage installations—visit our Reviews and Testimonials page and watch Phil’s video testimonial below.

Types of Solar Batteries in the UK

Another consideration worth looking at is the two primary types of solar batteries, namely, lead-acid and lithium-ion solar batteries.

Lead-Acid Solar Batteries (Old School) 

Lead-acid batteries are the more old-school of the two.

These guys have been around storing energy for centuries but you might know them more commonly as being the power source for golf buggies and car jump-starters.

Tried, tested and trusted, these guys are the safe and reliable option for solar energy storage which often comes in at the lower end of the pricing scale.

Having said that, they are now largely viewed as outdated and aren’t necessarily the most efficient option for optimising your storage potential compared to more modern solutions.

These cycles are essentially the number of times a solar battery is used.

If it’s used daily then 1,800 lifecycles = a life expectancy of 1,800 days or just shy of five years, but if you used it every second day, you’d be more likely to get ten years out of it.

Beyond that, lead-acid batteries rated at 4kWh have a depth of discharge or DoD of about 50%, which is significantly less than that of their lithium-ion counterparts.

Overall, the cost per kWh per cycle of these batteries stands at around £0.56, again if you’re going with a 4kWh product.

Explore a Battery Storage Case Study: Check out an insightful Q&A session featured in one of our detailed case studies on battery storage. Hear directly from a Heatable customer in the UK and gain valuable perspectives on their experience here.

The image above features a Tesla Powerwall 3 installation performed by our team of Tesla-certified installers at Heatable.

Lithium-Ion Solar Batteries (New & Improved)

Lithium-ion batteries are the gold standard when it comes to battery storage. 

Lithium-ion batteries are more compact, lightweight alternatives with higher performance ratings, faster charging speeds and a higher storage capacity per square centimetre.

Yes, that means they’re more expensive but they often come with much longer warranty periods compared to lead-acid batteries meaning, although the initial outlay is higher, you’re definitely getting more bang for your buck.

Now looking at lithium-ion solar batteries, the average 4kWh product would cost about £4,000, twice as much as an average 4kWh lead-acid solar battery.

However, a 4kWh lithium-ion solar battery would offer around 4,000 lifecycles (a lifespan of around 10-11 years) and a DoD of 90%.

Moreover, the cost per kWh per cycle of an average 4kWh lithium-ion solar battery would be approximately £0.28.

What Size Battery Do I Need? 

The capacity of solar batteries is quantified in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and this is the total amount of energy they can store.

We have a complete guide on this here, but as a quick reference, see the tables below:

If you have solar panels installed, here is the battery capacity you likely require: 

If you don’t have solar panels, here is the battery capacity you likely require: 

How Much Do Storage Batteries Cost? 

The cost of a home battery storage system can fluctuate based on several variables, such as the capacity of the battery you need and the manufacturer you select. Generally, prices are situated between £5,500 and £7,500.

For a comprehensive and tailored cost assessment, including installation, you can obtain an instant fixed-price quote by following the provided link.

In an encouraging development, as of February 2024, the UK Government has eliminated VAT on all battery storage systems.

This policy change translates to a substantial 20% reduction in prices compared to those in 2023, making these systems more affordable for homeowners.

Below is a simplified price guide table for your reference:

Table prices: last updated May 2024. 

Do I Need To Have Solar To Have A Home Battery?

No, you don’t. If your chosen battery doesn’t have an inbuilt inverter then you’ll need to buy one for your battery to work.

If you have solar then you’ll be able to store any excess energy which is usually exported to the grid.

“Battery only” systems have been growing in popularity since the VAT abolishment with many customers using a home battery to charge up with uber cheap off-peak energy and using it later on when prices are 3 x higher.

To get a quote for a battery with or without a solar system, click here.

Which Storage Battery Is Best For Your Home? 

Selecting the optimal battery system involves evaluating a range of crucial metrics, each contributing to the overall performance, longevity, and cost-effectiveness of the battery.

The key parameters to consider include:

• Max AC Power Output: This metric represents the peak power a battery can deliver at any moment, measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), indicating the battery's ability to meet high energy demands.

• Charging Capacity: This refers to the maximum rate at which a battery can be charged, essential for understanding how quickly the battery can be ready for use.

• Depth of Discharge (DoD): DoD indicates the percentage of the battery's total capacity that has been utilized. A higher DoD means more of the battery's stored energy can be used, affecting its lifespan and efficiency.

• Battery Weight: The mass of the battery can impact installation options and suitability for certain locations.

• Lifecycle (Number of Cycles): This figure denotes the total number of complete charge-discharge cycles a battery can perform before its capacity falls below a specific percentage of its original capacity, offering insight into the battery's longevity.

• Installation Flexibility: Whether a battery can be mounted on a wall, placed on the floor, or both, affects the integration with existing spaces.

• Warranty Period: The duration and coverage of the manufacturer’s warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against premature failure.

• Cost: The upfront and long-term costs of the battery system are critical for calculating return on investment.

• Physical Size and Design: The dimensions and aesthetic design of the battery may influence the decision based on space constraints and visual preferences.

Among the myriad options available in the market, Tesla and Alpha ESS stand out for their notable contributions and advancements in battery technology.

Tesla is renowned for its superior battery chemistry, which minimises degradation over time and ensures construction to the highest standards.

On the other hand, Alpha ESS, known for its exceptional monitoring systems, offers products that, while less expensive than Tesla’s offerings, do not compromise on quality and efficiency.

Although Alpha ESS may not boast the same brand recognition as Tesla, the world's largest battery producer, it remains a competitive choice for those seeking premium quality at a more accessible price point.

For an in-depth analysis and comparison of the top storage batteries, including those from industry leaders like Tesla and Alpha ESS, consider exploring our comprehensive review. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice tailored to your energy needs and preferences.

Next Steps For Your Battery Journey:

When planning to install battery storage for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:

• What size battery do you need? 

• What is home battery storage? 

• Battery storage without solar panels 

• Pros and cons of battery storage

To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their battery installation. 

Get a Quote for Battery Storage Today 

Without boasting you should get your battery storage installed with us, here's why: 

• Thousands of Happy Customers: We boast an average score of 4.9 on Trustpilot, outperforming the market leader.

• Which? Trusted Trader: Heatable is proudly recognised as a Which? Trusted Trader.

• Tesla Certified Installer: Heatable is proudly certified and approved by Tesla to install the Powerwall.

• MCS Accredited: Our accreditation by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) ensures high-quality standards.

• Consumer Protection: As members of the HIES consumer code, we provide 2-year deposit protection.

• Flexible Payment Options: Choose from multiple payment methods, including finance options.

• Fixed Price Guarantee: Enjoy transparency with no hidden costs.

• Save Your Quote: You can save your quote and decide later.

• Bespoke Battery Quote Tool: Find out which battery is ideal for your home, here.