Before installing a battery, several things need checking.
Your Existing Inverter
The inverter is one of the most important parts of your solar system.Older inverters may not support certain battery systems, meaning an upgrade may be required.
Your Solar Generation
The size of your existing solar array affects the recommended battery size. A smaller solar system may not generate enough electricity to fully charge a very large battery. A larger solar system may benefit from greater storage capacity. The goal is to balance:
- Solar generation
- Battery capacity
- Household usage
Your Electricity Usage
The best battery size depends on how much electricity your home uses. A homeowner with:
- An electric vehicle
- Heat pump
- Home office
- Electric heating
may benefit from a larger battery. A smaller household may need less storage.
Can a Battery Increase Solar Savings?
Yes. The biggest advantage of adding a battery is increasing your self-consumption. Without a battery:
- Solar generates electricity
- Home uses some energy
- Excess energy is exported
With a battery:
- Solar generates electricity
- Home uses what it needs
- Excess energy is stored
- Stored energy is used later
This means less electricity needs to be purchased from your energy supplier.
Charging Your Battery Overnight on Cheaper Tariffs
One of the biggest developments in home energy is the rise of smart tariffs. Many energy suppliers now offer cheaper electricity rates overnight. A battery allows homeowners to take advantage of these tariffs by charging when electricity is cheaper and using that energy later. At night, your battery charges at a lower electricity rate. During the day, solar powers the home and your battery supports demand when required This gives homeowners more control over when they buy electricity.
Should You Replace Your Old Solar System?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners assume that because their solar system is older, the entire installation needs replacing. Often, the existing panels are still working perfectly. A battery upgrade can breathe new life into an existing solar installation. However, older systems should be assessed to check:
- Panel condition
- Inverter performance
- Roof mounting system
- Electrical components
A professional survey will identify whether an upgrade or replacement is the best option.
How Long Does a Solar Battery Installation Take?
Most battery retrofit installations can be completed within a day, depending on:
- Battery location
- Electrical requirements
- Existing system setup
- Whether inverter upgrades are needed
A proper survey before installation ensures the process runs smoothly.
Real Example: Upgrading an Existing Solar System in Liverpool
We recently completed a solar upgrade project in Liverpool where the customer had an existing solar system that was no longer performing correctly. The project involved:
- Removing the old non-functioning solar system
- Installing 13 × 450W solar panels
- Adding 20kWh battery storage
- Completing the installation in just 2 days
The upgraded system is expected to save the customer approximately £2,100 per year. This shows the difference a correctly designed modern solar and battery system can make.
Is Adding a Battery Worth It?
For many homeowners, adding battery storage is one of the best ways to improve an existing solar system. It allows you to:
✔️ Use more of your own electricity
✔️ Reduce grid dependence
✔️ Take advantage of cheaper tariffs
✔️ Future-proof your home energy system
However, the best solution depends on your individual property and energy usage.
Final Thoughts
Solar panels are a long-term investment, and adding battery storage is a great way to maximise their value. Whether your solar system was installed last year or over ten years ago, there may be opportunities to improve performance and reduce your electricity bills. The important thing is choosing a system designed around your home rather than simply adding the biggest battery available.
Looking to Upgrade Your Solar System?
At Generating Energy, we specialise in solar upgrades and battery storage installations across Liverpool and the North West. Our experienced in-house team can assess your existing system and recommend the best solution for your home, whether that means adding battery storage, upgrading your inverter or designing a complete replacement system. Get in touch today to find out how much more you could get from your existing solar panels.