Making the switch to solar energy can be a great decision to move away from fossil fuels. With so many solar batteries available, deciding which one is right for you can be difficult. We¡¯ve analysed some of the batteries on the market today and have picked the best ones to help you use more green energy at home.
1. Tesla Powerwall
Tesla is best known for their innovative electric cars, and with that comes an expert knowledge of batteries. This battery stores energy, detects outages and automatically becomes your home's energy source when the grid goes down.
Tesla promises that their batteries require no upkeep or fuel and run completely silently. These batteries can be used on their own or combined with other Tesla products to save money, reduce your carbon footprint and prepare your home for any power outages.
The Tesla Powerwall 2 offers a usable capacity of 13.5kWh. Although this battery is not modular and only comes in one size, multiple batteries can be stacked to meet all of your power needs.
Some of the key features of this battery include:
- Easy installation and a minimalist design?
- Water resistant?
- Child and Pet friendly?
- Depth of Discharge of 100%
- Ability to monitor your home¡¯s energy production and consumption in real time with the Tesla App. You can also set preferences to optimise energy independence, outage protection and savings.
2. Generac PWRcell
The Generac PWRcell has all the power and capacity that you will need. Generac goes above and beyond the competition with up to 9kWh of continuous backup power and cohesive load management.
This battery has one of the highest round-trip efficiencies on our list with 96.5%. Advertised as the most flexible and scalable home energy system on the market, this battery represents the next step in Generac¡¯s 60-year history of backup power technology leadership.
Features include:
- Environmentally friendly (100% emission and fossil fuel free)
- Easy to install
- Customisable options
- 84% Depth of Discharge
- The PWRView app allows you to keep tabs on your energy consumption and monitor the battery usage
3. Panasonic EverVolt
Panasonic is one of the leading battery manufacturers. The Evervolt offers AC or DC coupling and can be installed in existing solar panel systems or can be added to new ones. All models have a round-trip efficiency of 90%.
Here are key features of the Panasonic EverVolt:
- Can be AC or DC coupled
- 100% Depth of Discharge
- Modular design with a capacity of 17.5kWh
- Waterproof
- Mobile app to monitor energy usage and set operating modes
4. Enphase IQ Battery
Enphase is a brand that is recognisable for its high-quality inverters. This technology is used in their solar battery, the Enphase IQ.
As a modular battery, there is a choice of 4 models:
- Enphase IQ 3 - 3.36kWh?
- Enphase IQ 3T - 3.36kWh but more compact
- Enphase IQ 10 - 10.08kWh
- Enphase IQ 10T - 10.08kWh but 24 pounds lighter
This battery also has a quick and easy plug-and-play installation process. Monitoring and controlling can also be done through the Enphase App.
The Enphase battery is the only one in this list that offers an additional 5 years warranty.
5. BLUETTI EP600+B500
BLUETTI EP600 + B500 battery is a modular home backup power system that can be customised to your energy needs. This is our most powerful home battery with a capacity of up to 79,360Wh.
Each battery includes a hybrid inverter system to make for easy installation. Simply plug your solar panels into the solar generator and the power will flow through.
The key features of the EP600 + B500 are:
- A superior aluminium alloy shell to resist wear and tear
- LiFePO? battery cells and innovative BMS (Battery Management System) to ensure increased safety and a longer lifespan
- 6,000W maximum solar input
- 24/7 UPS to ensure a seamless switchover during power outages
- Worry-free warranty coverage that lasts as long as 10 years, keeping you powered with ease
- The intuitive BLUETTI App allows you to easily control the working modes, monitor battery status
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6. PowerVault
Powervault are pioneers in the future of sustainable energy. They are the creators of the most intelligent, economic and sustainable energy storage systems for homes and businesses.
With modular and scalable designs available, there is a shape and size to fit your needs. Other benefits include:
- Full compatibility with other solar systems?
- Quick installation?
- AC coupled
- Online portal to monitor energy usage and control your Powervault from any device
Energy specialists OVO are currently participating in a trial in partnership with Powervault. They are monitoring how well the batteries power homes and also look into any extra energy that is left over that can support the grid in peak times.
The trial takes place over two years and participants get to keep the battery afterwards.
7. EDF
EDF are experts when it comes to gas and electricity storage. Their PowerVault3 is compatible with all grid-connected solar panels and is one of the most affordable on the market with prices starting from ¡ê4995 (including 20% VAT).
This battery system is designed to be wall or ground mounted with many customers choosing to install it in their garage, loft or under the stairs. The battery has plenty of power to run your essentials after the sun has gone down with a minimum of 5.12kW.
The Sunsynk Data Logger app allows you to get the most out of your solar panels and batteries. On the app, you can track how much energy your panels are generating and receive tips on how to save money and reduce your energy spend.
8.?Huawei Luna 2000-10
Solar batteries can be bulky so if you are short on space, the Huawei Luna is a great option. The unit is only 150mm thick and can easily be installed in a space with limited space. The battery is waterproof and can be mounted on the wall to save even more space.
Comparison between 8 Best Home Battery Storage Systems
The table summarises all of our key findings for each battery type.
How Do Home Batteries Work?
The principle is very simple. Only 30% of solar generated electricity is used within the home so it is only natural to want to use more of your energy.
Batteries capture solar electricity that would otherwise be sent back to the grid, this is often known as excess energy. Instead of then purchasing energy from your provider, the stored energy can supply power to your home throughout the night.
Do I Need a Home Battery if I Already Have Solar Panels?
Home batteries are not essential. However, they are a great tool for getting the most out of your energy. Solar panels only create energy in daylight. Buying a battery means you will be able to utilise this energy during hours when the sun is not shining.
What Size Battery Do I Need?
An average three bedroom household requires an 8kWh solar battery. The actual size battery for you will depend on the amount of energy you use. Experts can help you work out this figure.
For more support regarding home backup systems, get in touch with our specialist team.
