A battery stores the solar you do not use during the day so you can use it at night. Whether it pays off depends on when you use power.
A battery makes sense when
- Most of your use is in the evening.
- You already export a lot of solar for little return.
- You want backup power in a blackout.
- You want to install while the 2026 incentive is at its highest.
It may not make sense when
- Your bill is already small.
- You use most of your solar during the day.
- Your roof has room for very little solar.
What it does in a blackout
Set up for backup, a battery switches your chosen circuits over on its own. Most people pick lights, the fridge and wifi. Whole-house backup is possible but costs more.
Should you join a virtual power plant?
A virtual power plant (VPP) links many home batteries so a retailer can use a little of their stored power when the grid is under strain. In return, some retailers pay bill credits.
- Your battery must be VPP-capable to get the 2026 incentive.
- Joining a VPP is optional.
- Read the terms: how often they draw, how much they keep in reserve and what they pay.
Check the numbers for your home
Our savings calculator shows yearly savings and payback with and without a battery, from your quarterly bill.
Already have solar? Most systems can take a battery. We check your inverter at the site visit.
Want numbers for your home?
Free site visit and a fixed quote.
