Batteries and home energy
Solar battery storage: do I need a battery with solar panels?
You can install solar panels without a battery. Whether storage is worthwhile depends on when you use electricity, available solar surplus, tariffs, equipment compatibility and the extra cost.
By VERA · Reviewed
What a battery changes
A battery can store electricity for use later, subject to its usable capacity, power limits and losses. That may be helpful when daytime generation exceeds household use and demand returns in the evening. It cannot create additional solar generation.
Compare the alternatives
Consider solar alone and solar with storage using the same household assumptions. Check both the additional benefit and the additional cost. Battery charging from the grid introduces another tariff-dependent scenario and should not be confused with storing solar surplus.
Do not assume backup power
A battery does not automatically keep the home powered during a grid outage. Backup requires suitable equipment and installation arrangements. Tell VERA whether you are interested in storage when requesting the quote; the final design should specify what the system can and cannot do.
What does a battery add to the price?
Ask for the additional installed price of storage on the same solar proposal. Keep the capacity, inverter arrangements and any backup capability visible in the comparison. Our cost guide explains what to request before choosing a battery.
Sources and further reading
This guide gives general information. Your assessment is an estimate; installation design, suitability and price need confirmation for your property.
Keep exploring
- Solar battery storage costs in the UK: what to budget
- What size solar battery do I need for my home?
- Solar panels and battery costs in the UK