Solar Battery Storage

How Do Solar Batteries Work?

Solar batteries store energy generated by solar panels for later use, enabling greater energy independence and efficiency. When solar panels produce electricity, any surplus energy that isn’t immediately consumed flows into the solar battery. This energy is stored as direct current (DC) electricity.

When needed—such as during the night, on cloudy days, or during a power outage—the battery releases the stored energy. Most solar battery systems include an inverter or work with a hybrid inverter to convert the stored DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is suitable for powering household appliances.

By storing excess solar energy, solar batteries reduce reliance on the electrical grid, optimize self-consumption, and provide backup power. They are an essential component of modern solar systems, enhancing both cost savings and energy resilience.

What Should I Consider When Choosing a Solar Battery?

Choosing the right solar battery depends on your energy needs, budget, and future plans. Battery selection is largely determined by a few key considerations.

Firstly, if the battery is being installed along side a fresh solar system, a DC coupled solution (one inverter for both solar panels and battery) will usually be opted for. If retrofitted to an existing solar system, opting for an AC-coupled battery system (one inverter for solar panels, and a separate inverter for solar battery) generally is the simplest solution.

Secondly, the required battery storage size needs to be determined. This will depend on a few key factors. The amount of energy required to supply power to the home during the night hours, the amount of available excess solar power, and the level of blackout protection capability required will all play role in the amount of battery storage needed.

Finally, we need to balance brand reputation, cost and capability to find the right solution. At Brightworks Solar, we carefully select from leading battery manufacturers to ensure a tailored solution that meets your current energy goals and supports future upgrades. Our battery expert will be able to guide you through this process to help you make the right decision.