Energy storage has become very popular as power prices continue to escalate, some feed-in tariffs schemes end and as battery technology evolves. Prices of battery systems have also reduced drastically meaning more and more solar owners can store their generated energy for use at night.
Not everyone has an understanding of the reasons for all the hype about batteries. The following FAQ will help pick apart the key motivations and possibilities for installing a battery system in your home.
QUICK FAQ:
1. Are batteries financially ‘viable’? The answer is YES. It is very possible to achieve payback within the warranty period of 10 years. Consider this, what else have you ever bought that will pay for itself before the warranty expires (and then for many years more!)
2. What does a battery do and why would I want one? Five key reasons motivate our customers to get a battery:
- greatly enhance your independence from energy companies
- save you lots of money
- greatly reduce your environmental impact
- with the right system, provide blackout power protection
- with Reposit, enable you to fairly trade electricity to beat the electricity companies on your own terms.
3. Is my solar system compatible with a battery? The answer is YES. Despite a common solar marketplace misconception, the fact is ALL batteries can be compatible with any solar system. That’s because both your solar system and battery system are commonly plugged into your switchboard as two separate appliances, i.e. they don’t actually need to be plugged into each other to do their jobs.
Still not convinced? Give us a call and and we can review your existing system and tell you.
4. What is Reposit? This Canberra based startup is changing how battery systems are being used in Australia. By selling your excess battery power during peak demand times, Reposit allows you to make money from your battery and contribute to the grid.
5. How many batteries do I need? Every battery is different and they come in different sizes. The question is more accurately phased as: “How much energy storage do I need and what battery will meet my needs?”. We specialise in helping you answer these questions. Enquire today and and we can use your electricity bills to tell you.
6. Can batteries be installed outside? YES – at least all of the batteries in our range can. They can also be either wall or ground mounted. Be careful of cheaper brands that aren’t weather proofed…
7. How much will a battery cost me? That depends on what you need. Most battery systems are in the range of $10,000 – $14,000 fully installed. Although, there are some small ones that are under $10,000, or cheap knock-offs from China that are even cheaper. Our experience is that “you get what you pay for”.
8. Are batteries dangerous? Billions of dollars of R&D have gone into making the leading brands safe for consumers. Be careful of:
- Cheaper knock-off batteries that get too hot or aren’t weather proofed
- Someone installing one who isn’t CEC accredited, experienced or reputable!
Since 2008 we have installed both grid connected and off-grid battery systems across Victoria, here are the current battery products we stock:
