Understanding batteries

Energy storage devices store energy to be used at a later time, when needed. Batteries, which store energy electrochemically, have become the most commonly used energy storage technology for homes. You can purchase the right size to suit your home, and they are one of the quickest forms of storage to respond to demand, which makes them well suited to home usage. Batteries can store energy produced by solar photovoltaic (PV) systems when the home is not using all of the power generated from the sun.

The benefits of batteries include the potential to save you money, reduce your dependence on the grid, give you more control over your energy use, provide back-up power, and deliver better environmental outcomes.

Batteries can be stand-alone (off the grid) or can be connected to the grid. In a stand-alone or off-grid energy system, the energy stored can be used when demand exceeds the output from onsite energy sources. If connected to the grid, batteries have to be setup to provide back-up power in case of blackouts and extra equipment needs to be purchased to override default protections. Grid-connected batteries can be charged during off-peak times so that owners can pay lower prices for electricity.