Australia, a sun-drenched nation, has been at the forefront of adopting solar energy technology. As we step into 2025 and beyond, the future of solar batteries in Australia looks promising, with advancements in technology, declining costs, and increasing government support poised to revolutionise how we harness and store solar energy.

Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery or solar inverters with Energy Matters. Energy Matters helps Australian home and business owners receive personalised solar quotes through our large network of high-quality solar installers.

With our 3 free solar quotes, you can compare plans from pre-qualified and vetted installers in your area and find the perfect solution for your home and business.

Why solar batteries matter more than ever

Solar energy has become a major power source for residential, commercial, and industrial use, and advancements in solar battery technology further amplify its benefits. Solar batteries enable energy storage, allowing excess solar power generated during sunny periods to be used when sunlight is limited. This storage capability creates a reliable backup system and offsets electricity bills.

Technological advances in solar battery storage

The landscape of solar battery storage technology is rapidly changing as new developments emerge. Here are some key advances expected soon:

1. Solid-state batteries

Solid-state batteries, which replace the liquid electrolyte in traditional lithium-ion batteries with a solid material, are anticipated to be a game-changer for solar storage technology. These batteries offer increased energy density, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller, lighter package. This makes them highly efficient and potentially safer, as they are less prone to overheating and catching fire.

2. Lithium-ion improvements

Despite the hype around alternative battery types, lithium-ion technology is still advancing. Manufacturers are pushing for innovations like lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which offer improved longevity and greater thermal stability, which are crucial for Australia’s warm climate. LFP batteries also have reduced reliance on cobalt, making them more environmentally friendly. As LFP and other lithium-based technologies evolve, they are expected to play a significant role in Australia’s solar battery future.

3. Longer-lasting flow batteries

Flow batteries, another promising solar storage technology, use a liquid electrolyte solution stored in tanks outside the battery. Their unique design allows them to store massive amounts of energy and last far longer than traditional battery types. These features make them an attractive option for large-scale solar storage, particularly in commercial and industrial sectors. By 2025, flow batteries may become a preferred solution for Australians with high energy demands or those in off-grid settings.

4. Hybrid systems and AI integration

A new trend in solar power backup systems is the development of hybrid setups that combine various energy sources (such as solar, wind, and grid electricity) with solar batteries. Artificial intelligence (AI) advances are also helping optimise these systems’ efficiency by predicting energy needs, managing peak loads, and balancing energy storage. AI-integrated solar battery systems allow users to manage their power more effectively, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. This trend is expected to grow significantly as more Australians adopt solar storage technology. Check out our blog on The Role of AI and Smart Technology in Solar Energy Management.

Cost and accessibility: Making solar batteries more affordable

The high upfront cost is one of the main barriers to the widespread adoption of solar batteries. However, several factors are set to make solar batteries more affordable and accessible by 2025:

1. Manufacturing efficiency and economies of scale

As demand for solar storage technology rises, battery manufacturers ramp up production, creating economies of scale that reduce costs. Advances in manufacturing processes, particularly in China and other major production centres, are anticipated to make solar power backup systems more affordable for Australians.

2. Government incentives and rebates

Federal and state governments in Australia are increasingly incentivising solar storage solutions, offering rebates and other financial assistance to encourage the adoption of solar batteries. These programs will likely expand, supporting homeowners and businesses investing in solar storage.

3. Second-life batteries

A developing trend in the solar industry is using second-life batteries, repurposed electric vehicle (EV) batteries that retain significant capacity. By giving these batteries a second life as part of solar storage technology, the cost of storage solutions can be substantially lowered. This approach also addresses sustainability concerns by reducing waste and extending battery lifespan.

If you plan to purchase an EV, integrating an EV charger into your solar system is a great way to “fuel” your car with clean, renewable energy.

Sources: Deakin University, Enel X, Solar Emporium

Solar batteries and grid independence: A growing trend

The prospect of energy independence is a key reason many Australians are adopting solar battery systems. By storing solar energy, users are less dependent on the grid and less susceptible to fluctuations in electricity prices. This capability has become increasingly important due to recent energy price increases and grid reliability issues.

Off-grid systems

For Australians in remote locations, off-grid solar systems offer a reliable alternative to traditional grid power. Advances in solar battery storage technology mean that off-grid solar solutions are now more practical and accessible than ever. With the right battery system, remote homeowners can achieve complete energy independence, enjoying power autonomy without grid access.

Virtual Power Plants (VPPs)

In a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) setup, battery owners can sell their stored energy back to the grid, creating a decentralised network of power sources. With widespread adoption, VPPs can help balance grid load during peak times, reducing strain on the electricity network. As more Australians join VPP programs, the potential for both individual savings and community-wide benefits increases, potentially transforming the future of solar battery usage nationwide.

Are you looking to save extra money with your Sungrow, GoodWe, or Tesla Powerwall 2 solar battery installed?  Origin and Energy Matters have teamed up to provide customers with an additional way to save and make money!

Join Origin Loop VPP as an Origin electricity customer and earn a $200 bonus! Earn $1/kWh during peak demand by letting them draw on your battery-stored solar energy. 

Challenges and considerations for the future

While the future of solar battery storage technology is bright, there are still challenges to consider:

• Recycling and disposal: As the number of solar batteries grows, so does the need for sustainable disposal and recycling practices. By 2025, Australia will need advanced recycling programs to manage the increasing number of end-of-life batteries.
• Supply chain stability: The reliance on critical materials, such as lithium and cobalt, raises concerns about supply chain stability. Diversifying the sources of these materials and investing in recycling can help mitigate this risk.
• Technical skills and maintenance: The increasing complexity of solar power backup systems necessitates a workforce skilled in installation and maintenance. Expanding training programs for technicians will be crucial to support the growing adoption of these systems.

The bright future of solar batteries in Australia

As more Australians adopt solar power backup systems, they invest in their energy security and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future. With the potential to significantly reduce reliance on the grid and lower energy costs, solar batteries are key to Australia’s energy future, paving the way for a resilient and environmentally friendly power system that will benefit future generations.

Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings. 

We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.

Take the next step towards a sustainable future from Energy Matters

Ready to harness the power of the sun and secure your energy future? Energy Matters is here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of solar experts can help you get up to 3 FREE solar quotes from pre-qualified and vetted solar firms in your area.

Don’t miss out on the benefits of solar battery technology. Contact Energy Matters today and start your journey towards a brighter, cleaner, more affordable energy future.

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Whether you’re planning a brand new solar installation or looking to add storage to your existing setup, this guide will be your roadmap to a brighter, more sustainable energy future.

How it works

A solar battery captures unused solar power generated during the day, which can be used during the night or on overcast days. Getting a big enough solar battery can make a home less reliant on the grid. Plus, using the stored energy from the battery can be cheaper per kilowatt-hour compared to using from the grid. However, factors, such as the time of the day and the tariffs in the area, must be considered. 

A solar battery consists of the following: 

• Battery unit: Consider this the heat of the system where the captured energy from the sun is stored. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice because of their high efficiency and long lifespan. 
• Inverter: The battery inverter converts the Direct Current (DC) electricity into usable Alternating Current (AC) to power your home. These inverters are in addition to your solar panel inverter. Hybrid solar inverters can handle converting DC electricity directly from the battery. 
• Monitoring system: An optional component, a monitoring system allows you to track the system’s performance. You can track the amount of energy your solar panels are generating, how much is being stored in the battery, and how much your home is consuming. 

There are two ways to charge a solar battery: AC and DC coupling. AC coupling is a more common method for exiting solar systems. In this charging method, the solar panels generate DC electricity, which is then converted to AC by the solar inverter before being used in the home or fed to the grid. Excess AC power is sent to the battery via the battery inverter for storage. The battery inverter converts the AC power to DC for storage. This is a less efficient method than DC coupling.

DC coupling is usually used for new solar installations. The DC electricity from the solar panels is sent directly to the battery for storage. If needed, the battery supplies DC power to the inverter for conversion to AC and home use. Hybrid solar inverters can channel solar electricity directly to the battery, convert it for the home, or send the excess power to the grid.

Different types of solar batteries

There are four main options to choose from for solar batteries: 

• Lead acid: This is one of the most common and oldest battery types. It is also the most affordable but it has a shorter lifespan of five to seven years.
• Lithium-ion: This is the most popular solar battery type in Australia because it’s lightweight and has a long lifespan of up to 15 years. They also require little to no maintenance and are highly efficient. 
• Flow: This is a newer type of battery that is made up of liquid electrolytes. It uses two different electrolytes separated by a membrane to store electricity. Flow batteries can last from five to 15 years.
• Sodium and nickel chloride: This is a new technology that uses salt and nickel to generate power. It has a high power density and an average lifespan of 15 years. 

The size of solar battery that you need

There are various battery sizes to choose from, which means that you are more likely to find a suitable one for your home. Here are some things to help you: 

• Assess your daily energy consumption: Check how much energy your home consumes every day. You can find this information on your electricity bills. 
• Inspect your solar panel output: The solar panel output depends on the size of your system and the amount of sunlight your location gets. 
• Know battery capacity: This is the amount of energy the battery can store for later use.
• Determine your energy goals: Be clear on what you want to achieve with a solar battery. Do you want to go off-grid completely or do you just want to reduce grid reliance? 
• Calculate your energy needs: Know the amount of energy your home uses during the day when your panels are generating solar power. This will give you an idea of the excess energy available to charge your battery system. 
• Calculate your night-time usage: Know the amount of energy your home uses at night to show you how much you will need to rely on your battery. 
• Consider days of autonomy: This means you need to consider situations like blackouts, storms, etc. The more days of autonomy you need, the bigger the battery you should get. 
• Evaluate peak load: Identify the times in which you use the most power, which is also known as the peak load. 
• Have room for the future: Consider a battery size that can accommodate any plans, such as building a family, taking in a new member, etc. If you plan to buy an electric vehicle soon, then you should consider that, too. 

Battery specifications

Once you have figured out the ones above, it’s time to dive deeper and get into the technicalities—battery specs. 

Capacity (kWh)

The battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which translates to the amount of energy the battery can store. A 5kWh battery could potentially run a small fridge around 200W for the whole day and a 10kWh battery could power essential appliances in a medium-sized household for several hours during a blackout. If you have a larger home that requires backup power, then a 15kWh battery capacity would work best.

Depth of Discharge (DoD)

DoD is the usable portion of your battery’s total capacity. Battery manufacturers recommend staying within a specific DoD range to optimise battery lifespan. Discharging a battery too deeply too often can degrade its health and shorten its lifespan. 

For example, a 19kWh battery with a recommended DoD of 80% provides 8kW of usable energy. You shouldn’t completely drain the battery to preserve its lifespan. 

Warranty

A good warranty for your solar battery protects you in case of unforeseen issues. Look for warranties that cover the unit and performance. The length of the warranty is also important—look for coverage ranging from 5 to 10 years. 

The best location for your solar battery

The best place for a residential solar battery is the garage. However, it can also be installed indoors and sometimes outdoors but it must comply with the Clean Energy Council’s AS5139:2019. For some who want to install it outside, this will depend on the type of battery that you choose. 

The bottom line is, that the place of installation should be cool and dry. If the battery can’t be installed in a garage and must be placed outside, it should be shaded from the harsh sun. 

How long does the installation take

Installation of AC-coupled batteries is more straightforward and if there are no issues with the wiring or switchboard, installation could be finished in half a day. For hybrid systems, such as batteries with solar PV or any other components or cables, it may take longer. In this case, it all depends on the size of the team of the solar installer. 

How to determine quality solar battery installation

How do you know if the solar battery installation is done right? First, the solar installer should be accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) with experience in battery storage systems. This ensures proper system design, component compatibility, and adherence to safety regulations. 

Next, the solar installer should create a customised system based on your energy usage, roof space, and desired backup power. Compatibility between new and existing components is important. 

The installation should strictly adhere to all relevant electrical safety standards and local building codes. Your solar battery installer should use reputable brands with proven track records for batteries, inverters, and other components. 

Your solar installer should also provide you with a transparent cost breakdown, including battery options, installation costs, potential government incentives, and a realistic estimate of return on investment considering energy savings and battery lifespan. Your installer should also be knowledgeable about available federal, state, and local rebates, subsidies, or financing options to help offset upfront costs. 

Finally, your solar installer should ensure clear communication and keep you informed throughout the process. They should be able to explain technical details to you in an understandable way and address any questions you may have. Moreover, a good solar installer should provide you with ongoing support following the installation, including guidance on system monitoring and addressing any potential issues. 

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The paperwork involved

Knowing the kind of paperwork you need in a solar battery installation is important. However, this varies depending on your location and specific system setup. 

From your solar installer, you will be given the system design and specifications, which outline the technical details of your planned solar battery system. This also includes the compliance statement that confirms the solar battery installer met all relevant design, installation, and safety standards. Separate warranties will likely be provided for the battery unit, inverter, and the installation. 

There is also paperwork involved in permissions and grid connection, such as the network connection agreement, which, in most cases, will be handled by your installer with your electricity distributor. This agreement seeks permission to connect your battery system to the grid and may determine if you can export excess solar energy for a feed-in tariff (FiT). Next are building permits, but these depend on your location and the size of your battery system. 

Other documents include manufacturer manuals and government incentives if you’re applying for rebates and subsidies. 

With over a quarter-million batteries installed nationwide, and a growing trend of adding them to existing solar panel systems, it’s clear that homeowners are embracing the benefits of solar storage.

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Founded in 2022 and entering the Australian market in 2023, Sigenergy offers a wide range of solar products. The manufacturer is based in Shanghai, China, and operates in over 30 countries with seven global offices or support centres. 

One of their renewable energy products is SigenStor, which many are calling a “game-changer.” Sigenergy is built on a software-first foundation, so users won’t have to worry about limitations due to software for firmware updates. 

SigenStor is available in single phase 5, 6, 8, 10, and 12kW and three-phase 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30kW inverter options with up to 48kWh storage capacity per inverter, and the ability to parallel many systems to achieve multi MWh storage capacity. It’s a five-in-one energy system that allows for energy independence with maximum efficiency, savings, and flexibility. It seamlessly integrates Battery PCS, Battery Pack, EV DC charger, PV inverter, and EMS. 

Safety is Sigenergy’s top priority. Therefore, the Sigenstor comes with five layers of protection: advanced temperature sensors, an internal fire suppression system, a decompression valve, aerogel-insulated pads, and high-temperature-resistant insulation. It also achieves the quickest on/off-grid switching with its advanced hardware and real-time intelligent control algorithms. SigenStor is available for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

The battery also facilitates bidirectional charging, which allows emergency power supply to home appliances and grid trading. To make it even better, the mySigen App is where the Sigenergy energy ecosystem comes together. The battery is powered by GPT-4, which can answer questions and troubleshoot.

iStore is an Australian, family-owned business that expanded its renewable energy solutions in 2023 when it debuted its solar inverters and modular batteries at the All Energy Australia conference. Their batteries, which range from 5kWh to 15kWh capacity, are manufactured under an OEM agreement by Huawei. 

Their Smart Battery 5000/15000 ES has a modular design that allows users to add battery blocks to save money and space. It can scale in size from 5 kWh to 30 kWh. Each battery has a capacity of 5kWh and is compatible with single—and three-phase iStore Hybrid inverters. 

Safety is paramount with multiple layers of safety features and protection in its battery modules. Integrated monitoring is available through the secure EnOS platform and iStore Univers app.

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