Determining the right size solar battery is one of the most important decisions for Australian households looking to maximise their solar investment. With rising electricity costs, current rebates available, and the growing shift towards sustainable alternatives like solar panels, having the right-sized battery allows you to store excess energy, lower power bills, and gain energy independence.
How solar batteries work, what size you might need, how much they cost, and which are the best options available in Australia are some of the most common questions in the market, and here we will answer them.
How solar batteries work?
The main purpose of solar batteries is to store the extra energy produced by your solar panels so you can use it when needed most. Think of a solar battery as a sponge: it absorbs surplus energy and keeps it in reserve as backup power, ready to be used at night, on cloudy days, during blackouts, or when demand is high. This provides you with greater energy independence and results in lower electricity bills.
What size solar battery do I need?
To determine the right size for your solar battery, you need to consider two key factors: the number of solar panels installed in your home and your household’s energy consumption.
👩👦 Small households (1–2 people): A 5–7 kWh battery is usually enough to cover basic appliances.
👨👩👧 Medium households (3–4 people): A 10–13 kWh battery provides more storage, ideal for families using heating, air conditioning, or multiple devices at night.
👨👩👧👦 Large households (5+ people): A 13–20 kWh battery ensures enough backup for high consumption, pool pumps, or electric vehicle charging.
Key factors to consider:
- Your average daily electricity use.
- The solar production of your panels.
- Whether you want to cover only essentials or power your whole home.
Are solar batteries worth it in Australia?
One of the most common questions from Australian homeowners is: “Is it worth having battery storage with solar panels?” The answer is yes, especially in states with higher electricity prices, such as Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
Solar batteries offer multiple benefits, including:
Lower electricity bills by using your stored energy at night.
Protection from rising energy costs in the future.
Greater energy independence for your household.
Access to government rebates that reduce upfront costs.
With the current incentives available, the return on investment (ROI) is faster, making solar batteries a smart long-term decision.
What are the best solar batteries in Australia?
The Australian market offers local and overseas options that deliver excellent efficiency, durability, and strong warranties.
Australian-made brands are suited to local conditions, resulting in dependable performance and excellent after-sales service. Choosing local also means helping the economy and, in some situations, receiving larger returns.
Glower offers the best of both worlds: locally created solutions with global leaders such as Sungrow, Alpha ESS, Solax, Fox ESS, and GoodWe, all of which provide high efficiency, modular designs, and warranties of up to ten years. These batteries are known for their long life and compatibility with most solar systems, offering homeowners the freedom to choose what best suits their needs.
At Glower you’ll find the ideal solution by combining the strength of Australian innovation with the dependability of leading worldwide brands, whether you’re looking for price, storage capacity, or long-term peace of mind.
How much do solar batteries cost & will they get cheaper?
The cost of solar batteries in Australia varies considerably based on capacity, brand, and installation. A complete system will cost homes between $6,000 and $15,000 on average. Smaller batteries, typically ranging from 5-7 kWh, are generally at the lower end of this category, whereas larger ones, designed for high-consumption homes, can approach the upper end.
Many buyers ask, “Will solar batteries get cheaper?” While prices have decreased significantly over the last decade due to improved technology and increasing competition, the Australian market is currently experiencing cost stability, largely driven by high demand and supply chain concerns.
However, federal rebates and state incentives, such as those in Victoria, help to lower initial costs and make solar batteries more affordable.
Can solar batteries be installed outside?
Yes, most current solar batteries are made for outdoor installation. They have enclosures that protect against dust and water, ensuring safe operation in all weather situations. Also, to improve performance and durability, always follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements.
How long do solar batteries last?
Most lithium-based solar batteries last 10 to 15 years, depending on usage, depth of discharge, and local climate conditions. Regular maintenance and monitoring, as well as selecting a recognised manufacturer, may ensure that your battery provides consistent energy storage throughout its projected life.
When are solar batteries worth it?
Solar batteries are particularly useful when:
- You have a high nightly electricity use.
- You reside in a state like Victoria and Queensland, where rebates lower upfront expenditures.
- You require backup power during outages or blackouts.
- Your goal is to maximise self-consumption from your solar panels.
In these cases, the return on investment (ROI) is substantially higher, making solar batteries a financially and environmentally sound solution.
Common Questions
- Can I add a solar battery if I already have solar panels?
Yes! Batteries can be placed with existing solar panels, frequently without changing the entire system. - Do solar batteries work on cloudy days?
Yes, they store excess energy from sunny days, which can later be used on overcast or low-light days. - Can solar batteries be installed outside?
Yes, as long as they are stored in an appropriate, weather-protected place and adhere to manufacturer specifications.
Ready to power your home with solar?
Glower provides a diverse choice of high-quality solar batteries, both Australian-made and international brands, to fit any family. Schedule your free consultation as soon as possible to find the right battery storage option for your energy demands, optimise your rebates, and begin saving on your electricity costs.
