Everything You Need To Know About Solar Batteries?

One of the main reservations people have about renewable energy solutions is their high upfront costs, and solar batteries are no different. Solar batteries are a significant investment, ranging anywhere from £1,200 - £6,000, depending on the type of battery you purchase. So, what makes them worth the price?

If this is a question you are asking yourself, then you are in the right place! In this article, we aim to break down the cost of solar batteries and tell you everything you need to know to make the best decisions for your energy needs.

Solar Battery Pricing

How much do solar batteries cost? This is a big question for many. Several factors contribute to the varying cost of solar batteries, including the type of solar battery you opt for and its storage capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are the most commonly used, popular for their cost-effectiveness and longer lifespan.

Prices for lithium-ion solar batteries start from £3,410 (with installation). These prices increase the higher the capacity of your battery.

Another popular choice for homeowners is the lead-acid battery, with a slightly more affordable starting price of £2,000. While you can enjoy cheaper upfront costs with a lead-acid battery, lithium-ion batteries perform considerably better long term.

For example, lithium-ion batteries have a much longer lifespan and cost less to run than lead-acid batteries, meaning that you won’t have to replace your battery after a few years. Lithium-ion batteries may cost more, but they have much more money-saving properties than any other solar battery on the market.

Another expense to consider when deciding whether to purchase solar batteries is the installation costs. The price to install your solar battery can vary depending on the type of battery and the installer. Remember to shop around to find the best deal!

Typically, installing your battery alongside your solar panel system is more cost-effective. However, retrofitting is an option for those looking to enhance the capabilities of their existing solar panels.

Are Solar Batteries Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of your solar battery comes down to the type of battery you choose. The real difference between each battery is the chemical materials inside them. As mentioned above, the two most popular types of solar batteries are lithium-ion and lead-acid.

When considering the entire life cycle of your battery, lithium-ion batteries are far more cost-effective than lead-acid batteries, despite their higher upfront costs. The higher the life cycle in your battery, the longer it can perform at optimal efficiency, and you won’t need to replace it as quickly.

Life cycles refer to the complete charge/discharge cycles of your battery. To compare, a lithium-ion battery with a 4 kWh capacity has a life cycle of 4,000, while a lead-acid battery only has 1,800. This means lithium-ion batteries will run longer at higher efficiency and last longer without needing replacement.

Lithium-ion batteries also have a larger capacity, so you can store and use more energy. Generally, the larger the capacity the higher the cost.

Of course, the size of your solar battery comes down to your electricity demand, so keep this in mind when purchasing a solar battery for your home. For example, a one-bedroom apartment will have a lower demand for electricity than a four-bedroom house.

While the price for solar batteries may be high, they are undoubtedly a cost-effective investment, helping you potentially save thousands on your electricity bills. Lithium-ion batteries have the added benefit of a long-lasting lifespan, lower running costs, and a higher capacity, making them a desirable choice for homeowners.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Solar Battery?

When making such a significant investment, you want to know that your battery will last a long time to make the purchase worth it. Many solar batteries come with a 10-year warranty, giving you lasting peace of mind that the manufacturer will fix any damage or breakdown within 10 years.

A solar battery’s typical lifespan can range between 5-15 years, depending on which type you buy. However, some solar batteries can last up to 20 years before you need to replace them, matching the lifespan of your solar panels.

Certain factors can impact the longevity of your solar batteries, such as the environment surrounding the unit and how often you maintain it. For example, if you install a solar battery outside without a cover, it will deteriorate quicker than one that is sheltered from the outdoor elements.

Temperature is another factor to consider. If the temperature around your battery drops below its working range, you will notice a significant decrease in performance and efficiency. If the weather is too extreme, your battery may malfunction.

Solar batteries have a fairly long lifespan, with lithium-ion batteries lasting the longest out of all the solar batteries on today’s market. By keeping your battery sheltered from extreme weather and keeping up with maintenance checks every now and then, you can improve its longevity and enjoy its money-saving qualities for many years to come.

Are Solar Batteries Worth It?

Solar batteries are an excellent addition to your solar panel system, helping you become independent from the Grid, spend less on your energy bills, and significantly reduce your environmental impact.

Solar batteries are a long-term expense, so don’t expect to receive an instant return on your investment. However, in time you will slowly begin to receive your money back as your home runs on clean energy stored in your battery rather than expensive electricity from the Grid. If you want to run your home on 100% renewable energy, then solar batteries are a definite must-have!