As the use of domestic renewable energy systems grows in the UK, more and more households are conscious of their energy usage.
Whereas previously energy was taken from the grid, people with renewable energy systems like solar panels can generate their own electricity, and then they can either send it back to the grid or use it to power their appliances.
A key consideration when powering appliances with electricity you have generated yourself is timing. For example, during the day you will be able to generate energy with solar panels, but at night this is not possible.
Conversely, your actual electricity usage during the day will be much less than the evening and at night.
It's precisely for this reason that homeowners would naturally think of storing the energy they generate. This is the reason battery storage systems are suddenly growing in popularity throughout England and Wales.
Save money with a home battery storage system
If you generate your own electricity then you are already aware that it can help reduce your energy bills. By generating your own electricity via wind turbines or solar PV you are less reliant on taking energy from the grid.
Using less energy from electricity providers means you spend less and therefore save money.
However, there will be occasions when you simply cannot generate electricity when you need it - for example when it's overcast, or during winter months.
A great solution would be to store electricity you generate. This is where domestic battery storage systems are really useful.
When you store your own electricity you can then choose how to use it. You could use it immediately, or you may decide to store it until the evening, or to supplement what you are already generating.
In addition to this you could even sell your excess energy back to the grid.
Ultimately by becoming more self-sufficient in your energy usage you will save money. Battery storage is the ideal method to save power and then use it however you wish.
Choosing the right battery storage
There are a number of battery storage options and sometimes it can be quite difficult to work out what you need. The key things to consider are:
- The type of battery - most modern batteries will be lithium-ion which are more efficient than lead-acid.
- Usable capacity of the battery - which states how much electricity the battery can actually store.
- Charge/discharge rate - which is important to understand as it will determine how much energy you can actually use for your appliances.
- Smart grid connected - for more advanced usage, batteries can be set up to use power during peak times or export back to the grid when appropriate.
How much it costs?
Domestic battery storage systems vary in cost, from less than £5,000 to over £12,000 for more advanced models. The key factors here are capacity of the battery in kw/h and how 'smart' it is.
Some installers will even offer finance options to allow you to spread the cost of the system.
If you are looking to see savings in the short term then battery storage systems are probably not right for you. They are more suited to homeowners who want to invest in their energy consumption and gradually become more self-sufficient.
After the initial investment you will start to see a reduction in your total energy bills in future years.
Finding an accredited installer
The first step in installing a battery storage system is to find an approved installer.
Hafod Renewables are experts at battery storage systems, covering England and Wales. You can contact them to discuss your energy storage needs and find out the best option for your home.
