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Solar Battery Storage: Why should you get a battery storage system installed at the same time as solar panels?

Why is solar battery storage important? Generating electricity from solar panels is a great way to reduce your reliance on the grid and lower energy bills. However, it’s important to ask – are you out during the day and not back till the evenings? If so, you may not be able to make the most of your solar panel installation. 

This is because any excess energy that is produced during the day will be fed back into the grid. This means when you get home from work, you won’t benefit from the electricity that was produced while the sun was shining.

To ensure that you get the most out of your solar panels, it’s important to add battery storage to your solar panel package.

With a battery storage system, any excess energy that is generated by your solar panels during the day can be stored for later use. Ideally in the evenings or for whenever you’d like to use it.

This means that you can still benefit from your solar panel installation. That includes even if you’re not often at home during the day to use the energy as it’s being produced.

Why should you get a combined solar and battery package?

Here are six reasons why you should consider getting a battery storage system installed at the same time as solar PV:

combined solar panel and battery storage package

Maximise energy savings

By combining solar PV and battery storage, you can store any excess energy generated by your panels during the day. You can then use this excess energy during the evening and nighttime, allowing you to maximise your energy savings.

VAT savings

If you install a battery storage system at the same time as solar PV, you can take advantage of VAT savings. This is because a combined solar and battery storage system is considered to be a “home energy system”. This qualifies for a reduced VAT rate of 0%.

You can install a battery storage system separately at a later date. However, you would likely have to pay the full standard VAT rate, which is currently set at 20%.

Increased energy independence

With a battery storage system, you can reduce your reliance on the grid. Becoming more self-sufficient, and providing you with greater energy independence.

Reduced environmental impact

By using more of the energy generated by your solar panels and relying less on the grid, you can reduce your environmental impact. Contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

Future-proofing your home

Installing a battery storage system alongside solar PV can future-proof your home against rising energy costs, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for any future changes in energy policy.

Increased property value with battery storage system

A home with solar PV and battery storage is generally more attractive to potential buyers, meaning that installing a battery storage system could increase the value of your property.

How much does it cost to add battery storage to a solar system?

The cost of adding a battery storage system to a solar system varies depending on several factors. This can include things like the size of the battery, and the complexity of the installation. 

Although costs can range depending on the size of the system needed, typically we offer a full installation of a solar PV and battery storage package for £10,000. This includes the installation, wiring and inverter. There is no VAT to pay with this package.

However, if you were to add a solar battery system at a later date, the costs are typically £5,000 + VAT at 20%.

In comparison, an installation for just solar panels, typically costs around £6,500 with no VAT to pay.

So, you can see that if you choose to get a battery system at a later date, you will be paying an approximate extra £2,500 for this.

One final note, the cost of battery storage systems is decreasing over time as technology improves. Plus with more manufacturers entering the market, they are becoming an increasingly affordable option for homeowners and businesses alike. It’s important to get a quote from a reputable installer to get an accurate cost for your specific needs.

Contact Eclipse Energy today for a free no obligation survey and quote for your needs. Fill out a contact form on our website or call us on 01422 414850.

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