Are you thinking about buying a solar battery? We appreciate your decision to protect the environment and do your part in achieving zero carbon. But you might be wondering how Solar Battery Storage actually works, how much it costs, and most importantly, if it’s worth the money for your home. Your concern is understandable, and so is our solution
To put it simply, the storage system we attach to solar PV systems stores the electricity your panels generate so you can use it later, like at night or when it’s cloudy. Your panels only work when the sun is out, which means a lot of energy goes to waste if solar batteries are not attached.
Among them, a 5kW battery is the right size for most homes in the UK. It works perfectly for a standard three-bedroom house and remains affordable and environmentally friendly. If your needs change, you can also add on later.
We’ll talk about how these batteries work, how much they cost, how much money you could save, and some useful tips for getting the most out of yours in this guide.
What does a 5kW solar battery do?
Like any other-sized battery, a 5kW solar battery also stores the electricity that your Solar panels make during the day. They store the energy for when you need it most, like at night or on cloudy days. For homes that are medium-sized, a 5kW battery works perfectly. And can save hundreds of pounds yearly on your energy bills.
A 5kw battery has enough energy to last all day, depending on your usage and house size, but it doesn’t cost a lot. With one, you’re not only lowering your electricity bills, but you’re also taking charge of your energy, relying less on the grid, and having a backup when the power goes out.
How does a 5kw Solar battery work?
Your panels make electricity when the sun shines, but your home still needs power at night. The battery comes in at that point. When you have too much energy during the day, it gets stored and used to power your home at night or when solar production drops.
The system can automatically get power from the grid if the battery runs low. If you want, some setups let you go completely off the grid. It’s an easy way to save money and make sure your home always has power by using more of your own solar power.
Get more information: The Ultimate Guide: Which Solar Battery is the Best in the UK in 2024?
Where Can You Use a 5 kW Solar Battery?
Most people connect a 5 kW battery to panels on the roof to store energy from the day for use at night. But it’s flexible. You can use it with a generator to power things when the grid is down, or you can use it to get cheaper electricity at certain times of the day. It also works as a backup during power outages, keeping things like lights, fridges, and devices running.
How Much Does a 5 kWh Solar Battery Cost in the UK?
5KW Solar Battery Price UK depends on the brand, capacity, and installation. Small batteries (3–5 kWh) usually cost between £2,500 and £5,000, which includes installation. Medium batteries (9–10 kWh) cost between £4,500 and £9,500, and larger ones (15 kWh+) cost between £7,000 and £10,000. You should expect to pay about £900 to £1,000 per kilowatt-hour.
Most UK homes can use a 5 kWh battery. With a new system, it costs between £3,500 and £5,000. It could cost up to £5,000 to add it to an existing setup because of extra work or inverter upgrades. A lot of batteries are modular, which means you can add more later if you need to.
Things That Affect the Price of a 5 kWh Battery
The kind of battery matters a lot. Lead-acid batteries are less expensive, but they need care and don’t last long. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive, but they work better, last longer, and charge faster.
The brand, cycle life, and how hard it is to install also affect the price. Tesla and MAK Energy are examples of high-end brands that are reliable, use modern technology, and offer good customer service. However, they cost more.
Are there any incentives and subsidies for solar battery installation?
The UK government wants more homes to use solar power, so there are some benefits. There is no VAT on solar batteries until March 2027, which saves about 20%.
The Warm Homes Programme in Wales helps low-income families add solar panels and batteries to their homes. Some of the costs can also be covered by local grants and social housing projects. These plans make it much cheaper to put in a battery.
How Much Can You Save with a 5 kW Solar Battery in the UK?
You don’t have to depend on the grid as much when you use a battery. The average UK home can save about £600 a year with a 5 kWh battery. This usually takes eight years to pay back, but it depends on how much power you use and how much you pay for it.
Using appliances during the day, charging the battery when rates are low, or selling extra energy back to the grid can help you pay it off faster. If you keep your battery in a safe place and take care of it often, it will last longer and give you better returns.
Trends in Prices in the Future
The cost of batteries is likely to go down in the next few years. Lithium-ion batteries, especially lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄), are now common because they are safe and last for a long time. Costs will go down even more thanks to new technologies like solid-state batteries and better manufacturing.
Over the last 10 years, solar panel prices have dropped significantly, and batteries are expected to follow suit. Prices will change depending on the market and government policy, but in general, batteries are becoming cheaper for homeowners.
Are you ready to make your home energy independent?
If you want to pay less for your bills and have more control over your energy, hire MAK Energy to install your 5kW solar battery. You don’t have to worry about energy because their systems are reliable, work well, and are installed by professionals.
FAQs
How much does a 5 kWh solar battery cost in the UK when installed?
An average 5 kWh solar battery Price UK, including its installation, costs somewhere between £3,000 and £4,000 if you install it along new solar panel system.
Will I definitely save money with a 5 kWh battery?
Yes, with a 5 kWh solar battery installation, an average home in the UK can save hundreds of pounds every year. According to the survey, many UK households save around £600 per year. But how much you save will depend on how much energy you use and the cost of electricity in your area.
How long does it take for a solar battery to pay for itself?
You start saving money right away when you install your solar panels and batteries. The return on investment (ROI) period could be between 7 and 9 years, depending on the brands, quality, and performance of the batteries.
Are there any government incentives or VAT savings for solar batteries in the UK?
Yes. The UK doesn’t charge any VAT on solar batteries that are put in homes right now. This VAT break lasts until March 2027 and lowers the total cost of installation, which makes solar batteries more affordable for homeowners.
