Having a solar system installed and operational for your home or office is great – you are helping the planet and you are reducing your costs. The next challenge is how to further harness these benefits during overcast days and after the sun has set.

Technology is rapidly advancing and although the question we pose depends on your own circumstances, the cost benefit of battery installation is generally still in the balance. We set out a few of the pro’s and con’s below and would be delighted to assist you if you would like more information on some of the installations we have successfully completed.

Pros:

Increased Energy Independence: Adding batteries to a rooftop solar system allows the homeowner to store excess energy generated during the day for use during times when the sun isn’t shining. This means less reliance on the grid and greater energy independence.

Backup Power: With a battery system, a homeowner can have a backup power source during a grid outage. This is especially important for those who live in areas with frequent power outages due to extreme weather conditions or other factors. In Australia and around the world, this is becoming increasingly important as the grid system often fails to meet the increasing demand.

Time of Use Savings: In some areas, electricity costs vary depending on the time of day. With a battery system, a homeowner can store energy during low-cost periods and use it during high-cost periods, resulting in significant savings on their electricity bill. The costly trend by electricity companies to charge for peak load demand which increases your electricity bill, can also be curtailed.

Environmental Benefits: By storing excess energy during the day and using it at night, homeowners can reduce their reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants and reduce their carbon footprint. Who doesn’t want to be green crusader?

Cons:

Cost: Adding batteries to a rooftop solar system can be expensive, adding thousands of dollars to the overall cost of the system. This can be a significant barrier for some homeowners who may not be able to afford the upfront costs. It’s worth exploring though as it does depend on your personal circumstances. Also, technology is changing fast and less expensive and/or more efficient solutions are constantly evolving.

Maintenance: Battery systems require regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance. This can be an additional expense for homeowners and may require the assistance of a professional.

Limited Storage: Battery systems have a limited storage capacity and may not be able to store enough energy to power a home for extended periods of time. This can be a concern for homeowners who live in areas with frequent power outages or who have high energy demands. However, with smart technology, it is easy to monitor and control usage.

Efficiency: The efficiency of battery systems can be affected by factors such as temperature and age. This means that over time, the battery system may become less efficient, resulting in a reduced storage capacity and increased energy costs.

Our solar partner, X-Alt Solar, has years of experience in this field and knowledge and access to latest technology – for more about your needs, simply contact us by clicking here and we’ll give you a call.