A British couple considering a battery for their 13 solar panels turned to fellow solar owners for advice on whether the investment would pay off.
In Reddit's r/SolarUK forum, the couple asked, "Are batteries worth it?"
Here's what to know
The two-person household used Octopus electricity on a standard tariff. In their post, they said they were in their 60s, had panels installed in 2014, and received a British Gas feed-in tariff.
"Would it be worth spending money on batteries? We are low energy users. At the time the panels were installed, batteries were not an option," they wrote.
Commenters added their two cents. "If you're low users, wait for the plug-in batteries to be released in the U.K.," one commenter said. "There'll be fierce competition in the market to sell these. So, a small plug-and-play battery could be a great option for you."
These balcony solar panels have quickly proliferated around the world as governments approve their use and companies expand their offerings.
Not every user agreed that a small-scale battery would be the best option, though. "It's the batteries that generate the real benefits," one user argued. "Keep them topped up with solar and off-peak electricity." A third commenter wrote: "Batteries are at an all-time low cost. If you're suuuper low users, then the question is are panels and an inverter worth it, and you already have those."
Homeowners exploring storage can check out EnergySage to learn about home battery options, including competitive installation estimates. EnergySage has teamed up with electrification brand Qmerit to help homeowners get the best price on home battery storage solutions.
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Adding battery storage can help you save money on energy and provide energy independence. Storing solar electricity for later use can also help an existing array meet more household needs, while backup-capable equipment can provide protection during outages.
For people with smaller backup needs, Pila is another company offering battery backup options. Pila's plug-and-play batteries are priced at a fraction of what whole-home backup systems cost and can back up individual appliances, such as a refrigerator.
Where can I learn more?
Other U.K. solar owners have weighed battery costs against potential savings.
• One sought retrofit battery storage after an installer dismissed its value.
• Another found charging batteries at 7p could beat storing daytime solar.
• Others said virtual power plants added £150-plus in export income.
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