Unlocking the truth: 5 home battery storage questions everyone’s asking

Depth of discharge (DoD)

One of the primary determinants of battery lifespan is its DoD. This metric essentially signifies the percentage of a battery’s capacity that is used before it’s recharged. For instance, if you have a battery with a 100 kWh capacity and you use 80 kWh before recharging it, your DoD is 80%. Generally, a lower DoD corresponds to a longer lifespan.

Charge cycles

A battery’s lifespan is often defined by the number of charge cycles it can handle. One charge cycle refers to charging a battery from 0% to 100%. With every cycle, the battery’s capacity to hold charge slightly diminishes. Thus, a battery that can endure more cycles will typically have a longer lifespan.

Temperature and storage conditions

Environmental factors play a pivotal role too, therefore, home owners can be a role in ensuring that their battery storage system is correctly placed to help with longevity. Batteries stored or operated in extremely hot or cold conditions might not last as long. Moisture can also be detrimental to the product’s lifespan. Storing in a garage or utility room is generally the optimal storage location, and operational conditions can drastically extend the battery’s effective life.

Battery chemistry

Different batteries, like lead-acid, lithium-ion, or solid-state – have distinct lifespans. For instance, lithium-ion batteries, which are becoming popular in homes due to their efficiency and longevity, generally outlast traditional lead-acid batteries.

Daily consumption

Start by analysing your electricity bills over the past year. Look for your average daily kWh usage. This will give you an idea of how much energy you typically consume and is a vital metric for battery size.

Peak energy demand

Apart from your average consumption, consider the periods when energy use spikes—like evenings when lights, appliances, and heating or cooling systems may all be running concurrently. Your battery should be capable of handling these peak demands. Depending on your lifestyle, your peak period will be different to others so make sure you understand when your power is in most demand.

Backup needs

Are you looking for a battery system to act as a backup during power outages? If so, determine which appliances and systems you’d consider essential during an outage (e.g. refrigerator, lights, heating) and calculate their energy requirements. A battery storage system will typically backup a single circuit so this might be all of your sockets, your oven or your lighting for example.

Future demand

It’s wise to consider future scenarios. Are you planning to add more appliances or an EV charger? Maybe you’re contemplating expanding your solar panel system? Ensure your battery has some room for these potential future demands.

Peak saving

Energy prices often vary throughout the day, with peak periods being more expensive. Batteries allow homeowners to store energy during off-peak times (when electricity is cheaper), for example; charging at night and discharging when the demand is highest. This will ultimately reduce your energy bills by not relying on the grid during the peak period.

Increased solar utilisation

If you generate more solar energy than you consume, a battery ensures the surplus isn’t wasted. Instead of sending the excess back to the grid for minimal compensation, you can store it for use during less sunny days.

Boosting property value

A modern, efficient battery storage system can significantly increase your property’s value. As energy efficiency becomes a high priority for homebuyers, homes with storage systems are in demand.

Beat future energy price hikes

As global energy demands rise, electricity prices are projected to climb. Investing in a battery storage system now can hedge against these future increases, leading to substantial long-term savings.

Financial incentives for buyers

A home with a battery storage system offers the new owner the advantage of diminished electricity bills, sometimes even resulting in net-positive energy generation. This immediate financial benefit can justify a higher property price.

In regions with net metering or feed-in tariff schemes, homeowners can earn from exporting excess energy back to the grid. The promise of turning a home into a revenue-generating asset is a substantial value add.

Considerations for added value

All battery storage systems are not created equal. A well-maintained, high-quality system from a reputable brand will add more value than an outdated or poorly maintained one.

If the battery system comes with a transferable warranty or service agreement, this can further boost the property’s value. It offers the new owner peace of mind regarding potential repairs or maintenance.

Understanding the off-grid dream

The primary allure of going off the grid is achieving total energy independence, freeing oneself from utility bills, blackouts, and energy policies. For many, this is a step towards a reduced carbon footprint, relying solely on renewable energy sources and minimising environmental harm.

Storing excess energy

Renewable sources, especially solar and wind, don’t produce energy consistently throughout the day. Home batteries store excess energy generated during peak hours for use during downtimes, ensuring a continuous power supply.

Harness more kilowatt hours

Without storage, any surplus energy your renewable sources produce goes to waste (unless fed back into the grid). Batteries ensure you harness every kilowatt-hour generated.

How to be entirely self sufficient

To be entirely self-sufficient, your renewable energy system and battery storage must be sized correctly to handle your home’s peak energy demand. This can mean significant upfront costs and space for the microgeneration and battery storage.