The size of the solar battery you need in the UK depends on your household’s energy consumption, the capacity of your solar panel system, and whether you want backup power during outages. Generally, for a typical household, a solar battery capacity ranging from 5 kWh to 15 kWh is sufficient. At Excel Energy, we provide customized solar battery storage solutions that perfectly match your energy needs and budget.
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Understanding Solar Battery Sizing for UK Homes
Sizing a solar battery involves calculating your daily energy consumption and determining how much of that energy you want to store for later use. A key concept is Depth of Discharge (DoD), which represents the percentage of the battery that can be safely used without damaging it. Most modern lithium-ion batteries have a DoD of 90-95%, allowing for efficient energy use.
| Household Size | Annual Energy Consumption (kWh) | Lead Battery Size (kWh) | Lithium Battery Size (kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 people | <2,000 | <20 | <10.5 |
| 3 people | 2,000 – 4,000 | 21 – 39 | 11 – 21 |
| 4 to 5 people | 4,000 – 6,000 | 40 – 59 | 22 – 31 |
| 5+ people | 6,000 – 8,000 | 60 – 78 | 31 – 41 |
Calculating the Right Solar Battery Size for Your Needs
- Calculate Daily Energy Consumption: Review your monthly energy bills or smart meter data to determine average daily usage.
- Match Battery Capacity to Solar Panel Output: Ensure your solar panels can generate enough energy to charge the battery. For example, a 5 kW solar panel system typically pairs well with a 9.5–10 kWh battery for optimal efficiency.
- Consider Days of Autonomy: If you want to maintain power during outages, consider how many days’ worth of backup you need. For two days of autonomy, multiply your daily consumption by two to get the minimum required battery capacity.
Factors Influencing Solar Battery Choice
- Off-Grid vs. On-Grid: Off-grid systems require more extensive battery storage due to a lack of grid support, whereas on-grid systems can rely on the grid as a backup.
- Future Energy Needs: Consider future energy requirements, such as charging electric vehicles, to avoid undersizing.
- Cost and Space Constraints: Balance the upfront cost and available installation space with your energy goals. Batteries can be scaled up later if needed.
Why Choose Excel Energy for Solar Battery Storage?
Excel Energy offers tailored solar battery storage solutions to ensure your energy needs are fully met. Our expert team provides end-to-end support from system design to installation and maintenance, ensuring a seamless transition to renewable energy. Trust Excel Energy to help you make the most of your solar investment.
For more information or to receive a customized quote, contact Excel Energy today.
I’m Kelly Hood! I blog about tech, how to use it, and what you should know. I love spending time with my family and sharing stories of the day with them.