0% VAT on Battery Storage is here… 

But what makes Solar Installation and Battery Storage the perfect partnership for a Bright Energy Future?  

If you have invested in solar but have always been left wondering how much more value a battery storage solution could have offered, in terms of savings and efficiency, now might just be the time to find out.  

The UK Government has taken a significant step towards sustainable energy by slashing the VAT on battery storage systems to 0%. This change is set to transform the energy sector by providing a significant financial advantage if you are considering buying stand-alone energy storage systems that can be added to your existing PV systems. 

So, the question is why would you invest in a battery system and what advantage does it bring to your existing solar installation? 

Harnessing the Sun’s Energy 

Using the sun’s power for at-home electricity generation has both environmental and economic benefits, to name just a few:  

• Energy generated solely from the natural energy from the sun. 
• Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and your carbon footprint.  
• Reducing dependence on traditional energy grids.  
• Lower operating and maintenance costs once installed.  
• Potential of increasing your property’s value.  
• Solar produces little or no air or water pollution. 

So, with so many great benefits from your solar panels alone, what more could battery storage offer you?  

The added value of Solar Battery Storage

Whilst solar on its own offers huge advantages, there remain challenges around the reliability of supply during the night, during bad weather and during the winter months when there are shorter days and increased cloud cover. This often results in having to call on supply from the grid to ensure you have reliable energy throughout the year.  

This is where home battery storage systems can leap to your rescue, allowing you to store energy you don’t use and then call on stored supply later ensuring a continuous supply without needing to lean back on the grid.  

Batteries can be the key to true, long lasting energy independence. 🔋 

How long will a battery last? 

The lifespan of a battery will vary based on several factors including type of battery, technology used and how the system is maintained. When choosing between battery options, it’s important to consider that some batteries can last from 5 – 10 years and some can last 20 years, so spend time in getting professional advice to make sure you get the right long-term solution for your installation. Cost isn’t always the most important factor and often spending more can actually save you money in the long-term.  

The majority of Solar and Battery solutions will come with an extensive warranty to ensure you get the most from your solution. Make sure you pay careful attention to this when selecting your supplier, to ensure your battery solution is protected for years to come.  

What level of maintenance will be required? 

Maintenance requirements can also vary depending on your chosen battery system, but general routine tasks include monitoring and managing the system’s state of charge, ensuring proper ventilation and temperature control and conducting regular visual inspections for signs of wear or damage. 

Lead-acid batteries, for instance, may require periodic water addition to maintain electrolyte levels. Lithium-ion batteries often have built-in battery management systems that help optimise performance and longevity. It is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for maintenance intervals, typically ranging from quarterly to annually.  

How much do battery storage systems cost? 

Although investment in technology such as solar and battery systems comes at a cost, the good news is that with technical advances, falling manufacturing costs and increased market competition, average equipment prices have fallen by approximately 40%. 

As well as your choice of supplier, factors such as capacity of system, type of battery, cost of installation and maintenance will all have an impact on how much your installation will cost. The average system as outlined by the energy guide will typically cost between £3,000 – £9,000. 

Will batteries be compatible with my current Solar Installation? 

In the UK, battery storage solutions are generally compatible with most solar panel installations. The compatibility is primarily dependant on the type of inverter used in the solar PV system. The good news is, that with advances in technology you typically find that solar systems use hybrid or small inverters which are inherently designed to accommodate battery storage solutions.  

What return on investment am I likely to expect? 

Whilst there are lots of tempting claims you will find all over the internet, there are a huge number of factors that will influence the savings you make and how long it will take for you to see a returns on your investment. 

The best way to truly understand the unique impact that solar panels and battery storage can have on your life and finances is to book a bespoke consultation with the expert team at Callidus.  

They will take time to get to know your property, projected energy usage and demonstrate the best products to fit your individual needs, giving you confidence in every choice you make and realistic forecasts of savings and returns. 

Book your free consultation today, to take advantage of the 0% VAT batteries.  

Call the team on 01626 905454 or click here to send an enquiry.