How many kWh of storage do I need for the solar panels on my home?

27th Mar 2023

kWh energy storage for your home

Solar panels are a great way to generate clean and renewable energy for your home. However, to get the most out of your solar panel system, you need to consider how much energy storage you will need. In this guide, we will explain how to calculate the amount of energy storage you need for your solar panel system, as well as any limits that may apply to UK homes.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • What energy storage is and why it’s important for solar panels
  • How to calculate the amount of energy storage you need
  • Any limits for UK homes when it comes to energy storage for solar panels

 

What is energy storage, and why is it important for solar panels?

Energy storage refers to the ability to store excess energy generated by your solar panel system for use at a later time. This is important because solar panels generate the most energy during daylight hours when many households are not at home or using energy. By storing excess energy generated during the day, you can use it at night when energy demand is higher and solar panel production is lower.

Energy storage also helps to ensure a reliable and consistent supply of energy, even during power outages or other disruptions to the grid. By storing excess energy, you can continue to power your home or business even when the solar panels are not producing energy.

How to Calculate the Amount of Energy Storage You Need

  • Calculating the amount of energy storage you need for your solar panel system depends on several factors, including:
  • Your energy usage: The amount of energy you use in your home or business will determine how much energy storage you need. The more energy you use, the more storage you will need.
  • The size of your solar panel system: The size of your solar panel system will determine how much energy it can generate. A more extensive system will generate more energy and therefore require more storage.
  • Your energy goals: Your energy goals will also play a role in determining how much energy storage you need. If you want to be entirely off the grid, you will need more storage than if you simply want to reduce your energy bills

To calculate the amount of energy storage you need, you can use the following formula:

(average daily energy usage) x (number of days of backup power required) = total energy storage capacity required

For example, if your average daily energy usage is 20 kWh and you want to have three days of backup power, your total energy storage capacity required would be:

20 kWh x 3 days = 60 kWh

Any Limits for UK Homes When it Comes to Energy Storage for Solar Panels?

In the UK, there are no limits on the amount of energy storage installed for solar panel systems in homes or businesses. However, there are limits on the amount of energy that can be exported back to the grid under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. Under the SEG scheme, homes and businesses with solar panel systems can sell excess energy back to the grid. However, there is a limit on the amount of energy that can be exported, which is currently set at 5 MW per year for households and 50 MW per year for businesses.

Regarding solar panel systems, energy storage is an essential consideration for ensuring a reliable and consistent energy supply. By calculating the amount of energy storage you need, you can ensure that your solar panel system is working at maximum efficiency and providing you with the energy you need. While there are no limits on the amount of energy storage that can be installed for UK homes, it’s important to be aware of the limits on energy exportation under the SEG scheme. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best solar panel system for your

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Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.

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What happens next?

In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.

We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.