Are Solar Batteries Worth It?
If you’ve been looking into solar power for your home, you’ve probably heard about solar batteries. These handy devices store excess energy generated by your solar panels, allowing you to use it later when the sun isn’t shining. But are solar batteries really worth it? And will they save you money in the long run?
At Ramselec Solar, we’ve helped countless Melbourne homeowners navigate the ins and outs of solar power, and today, we’re breaking down whether a solar battery is the right choice for you. Let’s dive in!
How Do Solar Batteries Work?
Before we get into the pros and cons, it’s important to understand how a solar battery system works. When your solar panels generate electricity, your home uses what it needs at the moment, and any excess energy is either sent back to the grid or stored in a solar battery.
With a solar battery, instead of sending that excess power back to the grid (for a small feed-in tariff), you store it for later use—like in the evening when your panels aren’t producing energy. This can help reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your energy bills.
The Benefits of a Solar Battery
1. Maximising Your Solar Energy Usage
One of the biggest advantages of a solar battery is that it allows you to use more of the energy your solar system produces. Without a battery, you’re often forced to draw power from the grid at night, which means paying for electricity when you could have stored your own.
2. Lower Electricity Bills
Electricity prices in Australia are on the rise, and a solar battery can protect you from these increasing costs. By storing your solar energy and using it when needed, you can significantly cut down your energy bills.
3. Backup Power During Blackouts
Many solar batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall, Sonnen, SolarEdge and Sigenergy come with blackout protection. This means that in the event of a power outage, your home can continue running essential appliances. For Melbourne homeowners, where storms and outages are not uncommon, this can be a game-changer.
4. Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
If you’re looking for ways to live more sustainably, a solar battery can help you reduce your reliance on fossil-fuel-generated electricity. By using stored solar power, you’re minimising your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future.
5. Protection from Rising Energy Prices
Electricity prices have steadily increased in Australia. By storing and using your own solar energy, you can reduce how much electricity you buy—making your home less vulnerable to future price hikes.
6. Night-Time Solar Energy Use
Solar panels only generate power during the day, but many families use most of their electricity in the evenings. A battery lets you store your excess energy and use it at night when you need it most.
7. Increase Home Value
Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers. A solar battery system signals sustainability and reduced ongoing energy costs—features that can increase the market value of your property.
8. Eligible for Government Incentives
In many states across Australia, there are rebates and subsidies available for solar battery systems. These incentives can dramatically reduce the upfront cost and make going solar even more affordable.
9. Quiet & Low Maintenance
Unlike noisy diesel generators, solar batteries are silent. Once installed, they require very little maintenance, making them a stress-free long-term solution for energy storage.
10. Smart Energy Management
Modern solar battery systems come with apps or dashboards that allow you to monitor and control your energy usage in real-time. This helps you fine-tune your usage for even more savings.
11. Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Opportunities
Some energy providers let you join a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), where your battery shares excess energy during peak demand. In return, you receive payments or credits—turning your battery into an income-generating asset.
The Downsides of a Solar Battery
1. Upfront Cost
Solar batteries are still a significant investment. Depending on the size and brand, a high-quality solar battery can cost anywhere between $6,000 and $15,000, including installation. While this cost can be offset over time through energy savings, it’s important to consider whether the long-term savings justify the initial investment.
2. Battery Lifespan & Degradation
Most solar batteries have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Over time, their efficiency decreases, meaning they won’t hold as much charge as they did when new. Before purchasing, it’s worth checking the warranty and expected lifespan of the battery.
3. Government Rebates Are Limited
While there are some government incentives available for solar batteries, they’re not as generous as the rebates for solar panel installations. In Victoria, the Solar Victoria Battery Rebate offers eligible homeowners up to $4,850 to help with the cost, but funding is limited each year.
Check out the latest Victorian solar rebate details here. (External Link)
When Does a Solar Battery Make Financial Sense?
A solar battery might be worth it if:
You have high evening electricity usage and want to use more of your solar energy.
You want to protect yourself from rising electricity costs.
You experience frequent blackouts and need reliable backup power.
You’re eligible for a government rebate that lowers the upfront cost.
You plan to stay in your home for the long term and can recoup your investment over time.
However, if your primary goal is quick financial returns, a solar battery might not be the best choice just yet. The payback period for solar batteries typically ranges from 8 to 12 years, depending on usage and electricity rates.
The Best Solar Batteries in 2025
If you decide to invest in a solar battery, choosing the right one is crucial. Here are some of the best options available in Australia:
Tesla Powerwall – High capacity, excellent backup power, and seamless integration with solar.
Sigenergy – Australia's no 1 selling battery q2 2025
Sonnen – German-engineered and known for durability.
Neovolt – Affordable and widely used in Australia.
Solaredge - Back up capability as well as solar car charging
BYD - Very good quality
Is a Solar Battery Right for You? Talk to Chris Ramsey at Ramselec Solar
The best way to determine whether a solar battery is a good investment for your home is to speak with a trusted solar expert. Chris Ramsey and the team at Ramselec Solar have years of experience helping Melbourne homeowners find the perfect solar solutions.
If you’re considering a solar battery system, we can assess your energy usage, budget, and goals to recommend the best option for you.
Get in Touch Today!
📞 Call us at 1300 495 322 ✉️ Email Chris at [email protected]
Want to learn more about solar? Check out these helpful articles:
Investing in solar is a smart move, and with the right guidance, you can make the most of your system. Whether you go for just solar panels or add a battery, Ramselec Solar is here to help you every step of the way!
