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If you're considering solar, you've probably heard about “battery-ready” solar systems. But what does that term mean, and is it worth the investment? Let’s break it down.
Photo Credit: Sigenergy
What Is a Battery-Ready Solar System?
A battery-ready solar system is a solar power setup designed with the future in mind. It’s the kind of system that makes it easy to bolt on a battery down the track. The idea is simple: start with solar panels now, and if/when battery prices drop (or you get sick of grid outages), you can easily add battery storage later.
Here’s the catch: not all systems are truly battery-ready. If your installer uses a standard grid-tied inverter, adding a battery later could mean rewiring, adding another inverter, and generally making things more expensive than they need to be. Hybrid inverters, on the other hand, solve this issue. They manage both your solar panels and future batteries, so you don’t have to pay extra when the time comes to install your new battery system.
Hybrid Inverter: The Key to a Battery-Ready System
If you want a solar system that’s battery-ready, the hybrid inverter is your best choice. Here’s why:
Dual Functionality: A hybrid inverter can handle both DC (direct current) from your solar panels and from a battery, converting it into AC (alternating current) for your home. This is different from a standard inverter, which only handles solar energy and feeds it directly into the grid.
Cost-Effective Upgrades: By installing a hybrid inverter, you won’t need to purchase a separate battery inverter when you decide to add storage. This avoids rewiring and additional installation fees, saving you a headache (and money).
Backup Power: Many hybrid inverters can also offer backup power during grid outages, giving you energy independence when the lights go out for everyone else.
AC vs. DC Coupled Systems
We have discussed the difference between AC and DC system in our previous blog, and this is just a brief review.
AC-Coupled: This system is perfect for retrofitting. If you already have solar and want to add a battery later, an AC-coupled system works by adding a separate battery inverter. It’s easier to install but can be slightly less efficient since there are multiple conversions involved (from DC to AC and back to DC).
DC-Coupled: More efficient for new installations. This setup charges the battery directly from the solar panels, reducing the number of energy conversions. It’s a better option if you're starting from scratch and planning to go all-in on storage
Why Go Battery-Ready?
Here are several reasons why you should go and install a battery-ready system.
1. Future-Proofing
Let’s face it: the cost of batteries is dropping fast, and technology is advancing even faster. If you want to add storage in 2-5 years, why not prepare now? By going battery-ready, you're ensuring that your system is compatible with the latest tech and avoiding expensive retrofitting costs down the line.
2. Energy Security
Speaking from experience, having a battery backup offers peace of mind. Whether it’s a storm that takes out power, a forest fire that disconnects the grid supply to your home, or a surge in energy demand, batteries ensure your home stays powered. Pairing solar with storage also means keeping critical devices running when the grid goes down.
3. Maximizing Self-Consumption
With electricity rates rising and feed-in tariffs dropping, storing your excess solar power for later use (instead of sending it back to the grid for peanuts) is starting to make more sense financially. A battery allows you to use solar power when the sun isn’t shining, lowering your reliance on the grid and maximizing your energy independence.
4. Government Incentives
As of 1 November 2024, NSW battery incentives under the PDRS method. If you’re eligible, you could access incentives Between $1600 to $2400 off the up-front installation costs of a battery for homes and businesses with existing solar, depending on the size of the battery. The installation incentive is usually provided as an upfront discount by the approved supplier. Different suppliers will offer different commercial products, services, and incentives – giving you a choice to shop around.
Is the "Battery-Ready" System worth it?
In a nutshell: Yes, with NSW battery incentives coming soon and financing companies giving a longer repayment period that will bring down your monthly battery instalment equal to your monthly bill savings. If you’re thinking long-term and see yourself adding battery storage in the next few years, investing in a battery-ready system with a hybrid inverter is a no-brainer. You’ll save money, increase your home’s energy independence, and be prepared for the next wave of solar technology.
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