We would like to get solar panels installed at our home but we are not sure whether getting a battery system as well is a good idea.
We are a family of four living in a four-bed home, with a south west facing roof, and are out for most of the day at work and school.
Would a battery system make a big difference to how much we can benefit from solar panels?
This is Money replies: Energy bills remain far higher than they once were, despite subsiding from their peak during 2022’s price spike. This combined with a rapid improvement in technology and falling installation costs is encouraging many more people to consider getting solar panels at home.
Solar panels can cut your bills and enable you to make some money back by selling energy to the grid. But for the best energy-saving rewards, you need to be home and using electricity during the day when the sun shines.
Modern Eco-Friendly Home with Solar Panels (Image: D. Goug/Pexels)
Getting a battery system installed can change the game, however, as you can store power generated by your panels to use at a time that is convenient for you.
We asked an Octopus Energy expert to explain what you need to know.
Owen, an Octopus Energy solar expert, replies: When you install solar panels, they’ll generate power whenever the sun is shining – but that doesn’t always line up with when you need it.
A home battery gives you the ability to store that solar energy and use it later, meaning less reliance on the grid and more savings on your bills.
With a battery, you’re not only making the most of your own solar power, but you can also buy cheaper, greener electricity from the grid at off-peak times, store it, and use it when prices are higher.
On some smart tariffs, you can even sell electricity back to the grid when demand – and prices – peak.
Read more: This is Money
