MENU

BLOG / Compare Energy Tool

BROWSE OTHER POPULAR TOPICS

17 Dec

Energy Switch & Save | 10 Tips To Help Lower Energy Use

Whether we like it or not we are all being forced to be a bit[...]

02 Dec

Christmas Lights | How Much Are They Costing You?

It tis’ Christmas light season and although all that light pollution may make your heart[...]

14 Sep

MGA Lego Blocks Used To Unlock 100% Renewable Grid

A fancy new material called miscibility gap alloy (MGA) is causing a stir this week[...]

13 Sep

7 Simple Steps to Switching Energy Providers

Whether you are moving homes or looking for a better deal the idea of switching[...]

07 Jul

Trina Solar | What You Need to Know

Trina Solar is a global leader in providing solar photovoltaic modules and smart energy solutions.[...]

14 Apr

Another Way to Cutting Your Energy Bills – Switch Energy Providers

With electricity prices rising approximately 117% since 2008 it is more important than ever for[...]

Download Your FREE Beginner’s Guide To Solar Power!

If you’re considering solar for your property or just looking to maximise the savings for your solar system, download a FREE copy of our "Beginner’s Guide To Solar Power".

Become an expert and better understand the ins and outs of solar power and solar PV systems for your property.

Includes detailed explanations and diagrams of the various types of solar systems and their parts, solar battery storage systems, Government incentives, expected ROI periods, finance, energy saving tips and more!

Download Your Free Copy Now!

Where in your solar journey are you?

LEARN The Basics

GO In Depth

Installation & Upkeep

BROWSE OUR ARCHIVE

Thank you

We have emailed your copy of "Beginner’s Guide To Solar Power".

If your guide does not appear in your inbox ensure that you have provided the correct email address or check your junk/spam folder.

This message will close in 10 seconds or

Close and back to page

Understanding Batteries

For some households a battery system can be of great benefit and minimise a home’s reliance on the grid. However, it’s important to understand for a battery to be useful your solar system needs to be generating excess energy for the battery to store, which you can then use at night or when the sun is not out.

When selecting a battery, you’ll want to invest in a system that is most suited to your home and can drive the best return on investment (ROI). Despite a larger upfront cost, a higher quality battery may significantly increase your ROI.

Battery systems start from $6,000 and costs can vary greatly based on the following factors:

Cycle Life-Time
The number of times a battery can fully charge and discharge.
Battery Power (kW)
How fast it can be charged or discharged.
Storage Capacity (kWh)
The maximum amount of energy a battery system can store.
Battery Management System (BMS)
An electronic ‘smart’ system that gathers data and manages the battery ensuring it does not overload or operate outside of its safe functioning zone..
Inverter
Battery systems require their own inverter if your solar system does not have a hybrid inverter.
'All-In-One Unit’
A system which includes the battery, BMS and an inverter all in one unit.
Warranty
Length of time or cycles the battery system is under guarantee.
Blackout Protection/Backup
It’s important to note this is not a common feature of a battery system and could cost thousands of dollars to include. Blackout protection not only requires additional components but also a specialised installation and rewiring. For grid-connected homes, the cost for blackout protection can outweigh the benefit.