The Sun is Shining… But Can You Store It?
You’ve got a solar system, or you’re planning to get one — and now you’re hearing all about solar batteries. They promise energy independence, backup during outages, and lower power bills. But they also come with a decent price tag. So, are solar batteries really worth the investment in 2025?
At PV Spark, we install batteries for both homes and businesses — and in this blog, we’ll break it all down: cost vs. benefit, real-world use cases, best brands, rebates, and whether you personally should consider adding one.
Let’s dig in.
What Does a Solar Battery Actually Do?
Think of it as your solar piggy bank. During the day, your panels produce more energy than your home needs. Instead of exporting that energy to the grid (for a small return), a battery stores it for when the sun goes down.
Key Benefits
- Use your solar energy at night
- Keep lights and appliances running during blackouts
- Lower your electricity bills by avoiding peak-time grid usage
- Future-proof your system with smart home and EV integration
Are Solar Batteries Worth It Financially?
Let’s tackle the big question: does the return justify the cost?
The Costs (2025 Estimates):
- Battery Only: $7,000 – $12,000 (for 10–13kWh system)
- Full Solar + Battery Package: $12,000 – $18,000 (6.6kW + 10kWh battery)
- With WA Battery Rebate: Save up to $2,500
The Payback Period:
Typically 8–12 years. Faster if:
- You use a lot of energy after sunset
- Your feed-in tariff is low
- You’re on a Time-of-Use electricity plan
- You’re eligible for government rebates
🟢 Want help crunching the numbers? Use our Solar Calculator
Top Solar Battery Brands in 2025
We only recommend brands with a strong performance record, long warranties, and smart monitoring apps.
🔋 Tesla Powerwall 2
- Capacity: 13.5 kWh
- Warranty: 10 years
- Best for: Premium performance and sleek design
🔋 Growatt ARK
- Capacity: Modular (2.5–10kWh and beyond)
- Warranty: 10 years
- Best for: Affordable and expandable storage
🔋 Sungrow Battery
- Capacity: 9.6kWh+
- Warranty: 10 years
- Best for: Mid-range price with high performance
🔋 PowerPlus Energy (Aussie-made)
- Capacity: Modular & scalable
- Warranty: 10 years
- Best for: Off-grid and commercial setups
Real-World Examples: Who Benefits Most?
Let’s look at some scenarios to help you decide if a battery fits your life.
🏡 Homeowner in Perth with Family of 4
- High usage after 6pm (heating, lights, TV, cooking)
- Currently exporting excess solar for 5c/kWh
- Wants protection from blackouts
Result: Battery allows them to use stored power in the evening, saves ~$1,000 per year.
🏢 Small Business Owner with a Café
- Uses power 6am–4pm
- Large fridge and coffee machines
- Sees occasional blackouts disrupting service
Result: Battery provides power continuity + energy savings = quick ROI in 5–7 years.
🧑💻 Retiree with Low Night Usage
- Mostly home during the day
- Low evening consumption
- Existing 6.6kW solar system already cuts bills
Result: Battery not financially ideal – recommend monitoring use first.
What About Solar Without a Battery?
Yes, absolutely possible. In fact, most Australians still go solar without a battery — and save heaps doing so.
You can always add a battery later. At PV Spark, we future-proof every system with battery-ready inverters and designs.
Government Rebates That Make Batteries More Affordable
Good news: solar battery rebates are now making energy storage far more affordable.
✅ Western Australia Battery Rebate (2025)
- Up to $2,500 for eligible homes
- Combine with STCs for additional solar panel savings
- Bonus: Low-interest finance programs also available
Should You Add a Battery to an Existing Solar System?
Already have solar? No problem — we can retrofit a battery.
Things to Check:
- Inverter compatibility (is it hybrid-ready?)
- System size (can it generate enough excess power?)
- Switchboard space and cabling
We offer free assessments and quotes for battery add-ons — just ask us.
How Long Do Solar Batteries Last?
Most batteries come with a 10-year warranty, but actual lifespan can reach 12–15 years with good care.
Tips for longevity:
- Use the official app to monitor performance and firmware updates
- Install in shaded, ventilated areas
- Avoid full discharge regularly (battery health tip)
Solar Battery FAQs (2025 Edition)
Q: What size battery do I need?
A: For homes, 10kWh is typical. For businesses, 15–30kWh+ depending on usage.
Q: Can I go off-grid with just solar and batteries?
A: Technically yes — but you’ll need more panels, a larger battery bank, and backup options like a generator.
Q: What happens during a blackout?
A: If your battery has blackout protection (like Tesla Powerwall), you’ll still have power. If not, your system shuts down with the grid.
The Bottom Line: Are Solar Batteries Worth It?
✅ Yes, if:
- You use power at night
- You want blackout protection
- You’re in an area with low feed-in tariffs
- You can access rebates or VPP programs
⚠️ Maybe not yet, if:
- You’re home during the day and use little energy at night
- You’re on a tight budget (consider solar-only first)
Our advice? Start with solar, and add a battery when your usage grows or the time is right.