Yes, you can add a battery to your existing solar system. However, you may need to consider the rewiring of your system and whether your new battery and inverter will be compatible.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors you need to consider before adding batteries to your existing system, some battery storage types, and more.
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Key Factors To Consider When Adding Solar Batteries To An Existing Solar System
Let’s look at the key factors you’ll need to consider before you add a battery to your solar energy system.
The solar inverter
Your solar inverter needs to be adequately sized to accommodate the energy collected by your solar panels. It should also be compatible with your solar battery.
If the inverter is too small, it won’t be able to handle the power from the panels. This is known as “inverter clipping”. Simply put, it will limit the output power, and the surplus energy will be lost.
For example, if you have a 48 V battery, your inverter must be able to receive an input of 48 V of direct current. If not, you will need to replace your inverter to accommodate the battery.
Solar panel size
The amount of energy the solar panels produce should be enough to efficiently charge the batteries. The longer it takes for the solar panels to generate power, the longer it will take for the batteries to recharge, which may limit your stored energy.
Battery type and size
There are different types of solar batteries available:
- Lithium-ion batteries can store more energy than other batteries.
- Nickel-cadmium batteries need to be fully discharged every time, or they get the “memory effect” and lose their effectiveness over time.
- Lead-acid batteries are a budget-friendly option, but they require more maintenance and don’t typically last as long as other battery types.
Additionally, your battery energy storage system should be large enough to store excess power. With the right solar setup, the stored energy can power your home and provide backup during peak power times or outages.
The solar system setup
How your system solar system is set up, configured, and wired together can affect the efficiency and output of the system. For example, if you mix different voltage solar panels and whether they’re connected in series or parallel. Depending on the setup, you will need a battery to accommodate the overall size of the total voltage produced by the system.
Thus, it is critical to ensure that a qualified solar expert assists you with adding battery storage to your system for optimal performance.
The initial outlay
The initial cost of adding batteries to an existing solar system may seem high at the onset, costing from £2,500 to £10,000 for a residential battery. Additional charges may also apply if you need to rewire your panels or purchase a new inverter.
You’ll need to factor in the overall costs to ensure you’re financially prepared before installing your new battery.
Future changes
Your energy storage needs may change over time. For example, your family may grow, which could increase your need for more solar panels and a larger battery storage system. When adding batteries to an existing solar system, ensure you plan for these inevitabilities, too.
Types Of Battery Storage Systems
When adding batteries to an existing solar system, you can have either an AC- or DC-coupled system. It is crucial to ensure that the battery storage system works with your existing solar power system.
AC-coupled system
In an AC-coupled system, the solar panels work by generating DC power, which the inverter converts to AC solar electricity to power your home. The excess electricity is then sent back to the battery, where it is converted back to DC power. This means that the current is converted twice.
DC-coupled system
In a DC-coupled system, the DC power produced by the solar panels goes directly to the battery storage system. When the current is needed to power your home, the DC power is converted into AC power. As there is only one energy conversion, there is less loss of energy.
Tips For Adding Batteries To Existing Solar Systems
- Choose batteries of the same brand to ensure compatibility.
- Choose batteries based on how much energy you need.
- Weigh up the short-term outlay against the long-term savings.
- Consider adding a solar monitoring system to assess how much energy is being produced, your energy usage, and how much you are saving on your energy bills.
Get A Free Quote
If you are ready to unlock the full potential of your solar system, then adding battery storage is the way to go. Our solar experts at Eco Happy are ready to help! We’ll assess your needs and provide you with a free battery installation quote. Contact us today to get started.
FAQs
Will a solar battery provide backup power during a power outage?
Yes, solar batteries can provide backup power during a power outage. However, how long the battery power lasts will depend on the size of the battery and your energy usage.
Do I need to add a hybrid inverter to my existing solar system?
If you currently have a normal solar inverter, you should consider changing it to a hybrid one. A normal solar inverter can convert energy in one direction (DC power in and AC power out). A hybrid inverter, on the other hand, is dual-directional, meaning that it acts as both an inverter and a charger.
Which type of battery is better to add to my solar system?
Adding lithium-ion batteries to an existing solar system is a popular option. These batteries are low maintenance and highly efficient (they store a lot of energy). They also charge and discharge quickly and have a decent lifespan of between 10 and 15 years.
Can I attach batteries to other batteries?
It is possible to attach batteries to existing batteries, provided everything is correctly wired and set up and all elements of the system are compatible.
Final Thoughts
By carefully considering factors like battery type, size, and system compatibility, you can add batteries to an existing solar panel system to optimise its performance.
However, it’s best to get a solar panel professional, like Eco Happy, to assist you with this process to ensure optimal compatibility.
James Elston
Boiler Expert
James Elston is the top boiler replacement and heating expert at Eco Happy. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry, focusing on Gas Safe boiler installations and offering home-heating and energy-saving solutions to homeowners across the UK. From sourcing the most energy-efficient combi boiler to providing specialist heating advice, James ensures that Eco Happy maintains the highest standards and best customer service.