With Brisbane’s abundant sunshine and rising electricity costs, solar batteries have become an increasingly popular addition to home and business solar systems. These batteries store excess energy generated during the day, allowing you to use it at night or during peak tariff times—maximising your solar savings and increasing energy independence. Whether you’re adding a battery to an existing system or considering a full solar-plus-storage setup, battery technology today is safer, more efficient, and more affordable than ever.

1. Why Add a Solar Battery?

A solar battery helps you reduce your reliance on the grid by storing the energy your panels produce. This means you can use your own solar power even after the sun goes down, helping lower your electricity bills and providing backup during blackouts. In Queensland’s hot summers, this can be especially useful for keeping air conditioning running even when the grid is under pressure.

2. Battery Compatibility with Existing Systems

Not all solar systems are battery-ready. If your current setup wasn’t designed with storage in mind, you may need additional components such as a hybrid inverter or battery management system. A professional assessment can determine whether your system can be retrofitted or whether an upgrade would be more cost-effective in the long run.

3. Battery Lifespan and Maintenance

Modern lithium-ion batteries generally last 10–15 years with minimal maintenance. Most come with warranties of around 10 years and are designed to perform well in Brisbane’s climate. Regular monitoring through an app or portal can help you track performance and detect any issues early.

4. Incentives and Financial Benefits

From July 1, the Cheaper Homes Batteries Program will come into effect across Australia – including Brisbane! Households and small businesses may be eligible for around a 30% discount on the upfront cost of installing small-scale battery systems alongside new or existing rooftop solar. The discount will be based on the usable capacity of the battery and will gradually decline through to 2030.

Beyond subsidies: the time-of-use savings and blackout protection can offer long-term financial value beyond just your electricity bill, helping you draw less power from the grid at night.