Is it worth getting a solar storage battery?

A solar battery allows you to store electricity produced by your solar panels and use it later or, in some cases, sell it back to the grid to make a few quid – but they're not cheap. Read on to see if it's worth getting a solar storage battery for your home... This is the first incarnation of this guide.

Are solar panels a good investment?

Buying solar panels is a long-term investment that should help cut your electricity bills and carbon footprint. But will they pay for themselves and earn you money? Solar panels are often marketed as a way to save money on electricity – and sometimes as a way to make money too.

Do solar panels save money on energy bills?

Energy bill savings are a key part of any potential solar PV earnings, as they are guaranteed for the life of your system. A large portion of potential solar panel earnings comes from the government's generation tariff, which is part of the Feed-In Tariff (FIT) scheme.

How can solar energy save you money?

Storing your solar energy will reduce how much electricity you use from the grid, and cut your energy bills. If your home is off-grid, it can help to reduce your use of fossil fuel backup generators.

Why should you buy a solar battery?

You'll be able to use more of the electricity you generate. This should reduce your energy bills – and your carbon footprint. For example, if you're not at home during the day to use the energy your solar panels are generating, having a battery will enable you to store (and later use) energy from your solar panels.

Are solar panels worth the money if you move home?

Generally, it’s considered that solar panels take around 11 years to recoup the upfront cost. While this may reduce in the face of rising energy bills, you should still consider carefully whether they are worth the money if you plan on moving home within this time frame. It always helps to have a financial expert on your side.