Independent Information Service
This guide compiles information from manufacturer specifications, industry bodies, and public sources. We are not battery installers or electrical engineers. Always consult a qualified installer for advice specific to your property and electrical setup.
What Is Home Battery Storage?
A home battery storage system stores electricity so you can use it later. Rather than exporting surplus solar energy back to the grid for a small payment, you store it in a battery and use it in the evening when electricity rates are higher.
Even without solar panels, batteries can save money by charging from the grid during cheap off-peak hours (typically overnight) and discharging during expensive peak periods. Time-of-use tariffs like Octopus Go make this increasingly viable.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, pairing a battery with solar panels can increase the amount of solar electricity you use in your home from around 50% to around 80%, reducing what you buy from the grid.
Three Ways Batteries Save You Money
Store Solar Energy
Capture free solar electricity during the day and use it in the evening instead of buying from the grid
Off-Peak Charging
Charge from the grid at cheap overnight rates and use stored energy during expensive daytime periods
Backup Power
Some systems provide emergency power during grid outages, keeping essential appliances running
Types of Home Battery
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion (typically lithium iron phosphate, or LFP) batteries dominate the UK home storage market. They offer high energy density, long cycle life, and require virtually no maintenance.
Key Characteristics:
- 90-95% round-trip efficiency
- 6,000-10,000+ cycle lifespan
- Compact, wall-mountable designs
- 10-12 year warranties standard
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are a mature technology used in off-grid systems for decades. They are cheaper upfront but have significant drawbacks for everyday home storage compared to lithium-ion.
Key Characteristics:
- Lower upfront cost per unit
- Shorter lifespan (1,000-3,000 cycles)
- Bulkier, heavier, needs ventilation
- Largely superseded for home use
For most UK homes, lithium-ion (LFP) batteries are the standard choice. Lead-acid remains relevant primarily for off-grid or specialist applications. All major UK home battery manufacturers use lithium-ion chemistry.
What Capacity Do You Need?
| Household Size | Suggested Capacity | Typical Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 bedroom flat | 3-5 kWh | Evening and overnight usage for a smaller household |
| 3 bedroom semi | 5-10 kWh | Most of the evening peak for an average family |
| 4-5 bedroom detached | 10-13.5 kWh | Full evening peak plus some overnight for larger homes |
| High consumption / EV | 13.5+ kWh | Multiple batteries or high-capacity systems for heavy users |
Capacity requirements depend on your electricity consumption patterns, solar panel output (if installed), and how you intend to use the battery. An installer can recommend the right size after reviewing your usage data.
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Battery Installation Process
Home Assessment
Installer reviews your electricity usage, existing solar setup (if any), and electrical infrastructure.
System Design
Installer recommends battery capacity, placement, and integration with your existing system.
Installation
Most home battery installations are completed within a single day by a qualified electrician.
Setup & Monitoring
System commissioning, app configuration for monitoring, and tariff optimisation guidance.
Related Guides
Battery Storage Costs
Full cost breakdown for home batteries in the UK, from budget to premium systems.
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Read guide →Solar Panels Guide
How solar panels work, costs, and how they pair with battery storage.
Read guide →Ready to Explore Battery Storage?
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