Solar Battery Storage System Cost: The Real Cost in the UK (2026 Guide)

This guide is here to give you a clear picture of what it's going to cost to get a Solar Battery Storage system up & running, help you get a realistic budget in place, and provide a better understanding of the whole process.

If you're a typical household, you probably won't pay more than £5,500, but if you're a bit larger and need a lot more energy, be prepared for your costs to be higher.

Whether you're installing a whole new solar panel system or upgrading an existing one, you need to be absolutely clear about the costs, regulations and process involved in getting a solar battery storage system up & running.

This guide explains what solar battery storage costs, what affects the price, and how to pick the right system for your home.

What is a Solar Battery Storage System Going to Cost?

A Solar Battery Storage System can set you back anything from £3,500 to £8,500 - the exact cost depending on the level of complication involved in the job. As a rough guide, don't expect it to take a lot less time than that to get the job done - we're talking anywhere from one to three days here.

One of the first things any homeowner wants to know is how much it is going to cost them. And the answer is... it depends.

There are a few factors at play here - the size of the system, the tech used, and how much work is needed to get it all installed. Some systems are designed for homes that use less energy, and they tend to be cheaper - but they're just not as capable of powering everything for as long

Battery capacity is usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and indicates how much energy the battery can hold at any given time. A simple rule of thumb is that the higher the kWh rating, the larger the battery capacity, which means it's pricier.

Battery chemistry is also a key player when it comes to pricing, and lithium-ion is the most popular option - simply because of its high efficiency, compact size and long lifespan. But, of course, there's a catch: they tend to be pricier than lead-acid alternatives.

You should also consider whether the battery is being installed as an afterthought or as part of a new solar panel system. Sometimes installing a battery into an existing setup can add to the cost, especially if you need to add extra bits.

Solar Battery Storage System Prices

These are rough estimates, and you should think of them more like a general guide than solid figures - the best way to get a proper quote is to get a tradesperson round to give you a quote.

There may be a few extra costs to chuck in - for example, an advanced monitoring system or some smart energy software, which can add a few hundred quid to the overall cost.

Solar Battery Storage Supply Costs

Looking purely at the actual cost of the solar battery storage system, without labour, the biggest expense is the unit itself. The price is based on the tech used, the capacity, and the brand.

For example, some heavy-hitting manufacturers can charge a pretty penny for their units, but they often come with longer warranties and after-sales support, which can be a big plus when you're making a big change to your home.

In addition to the unit itself, most systems will need either a hybrid inverter or a separate inverter to manage the flow of electricity between the solar panels, the battery and the rest of your home.

You'll also need a Battery Management System (BMS) - this is the bit that keeps an eye on how well the battery is performing and makes sure it's working safely and efficiently. There are a few other bits and bobs you'll need as well, such as cables, connectors, mounting brackets and sometimes a protective case.

As I've mentioned before, lithium-ion batteries tend to be pricier than lead-acid options, but they do offer some pretty big advantages - namely, high efficiency and a longer lifespan. In most cases, the extra cost will be worth it because you'll save money on maintenance in the long run, and the battery will last better overall.

Additional Costs for Solar Battery Storage Systems

There are a few extra costs to consider with solar battery storage systems that don't fit into the usual supply and labour costs. One of the most common is electrical work, especially if you need to upgrade or rewire your consumer unit.

If the battery is going to be installed outside or at height, you might also need to put up scaffolding, which will obviously add to the cost.

Some people choose to invest in Home Energy Management Systems or smart meters to make managing the system easier, which will add to the overall price, but can be worth it in the end.

Labour Costs and Timescales for Solar Battery Storage

Labour costs for a solar battery storage installation can range from £300 to £1,200, depending on the complexity of the job. Most installs take 1 to 3 days, but some can take longer if the system is particularly large.

Several factors will affect labour costs, including whether you're retrofitting or installing new, how much integration you need with existing systems, and how easy it is to reach the installation area. Generally, labour is more expensive in places like London and the South East because of the cost of living, so bear that in mind when making your budget.

Cost Factors for Solar Battery Storage Systems

The final overall cost of a solar battery storage system is influenced by many factors. First and foremost, the size of the battery will be the biggest driver - bigger systems are more expensive than smaller ones. Next up is the type of battery - lithium-ion is more expensive than lead-acid or other options

Consider the type of installation as well - wall-mounted systems need more fixings and structural checks than floor-based ones, which just need a bit of space and ventilation. The location of the battery, how easy it is to get to and how far it is from the consumer unit will also affect labour time and cost, not to mention the price you'll need to pay for more specialist contractors.

Building Regulations Related to Solar Battery Storage

Any installation of a solar battery storage system must comply with UK Building Regulations. Electrical work falls under Part P, so it's got to be done by a qualified pro to be compliant.

In some cases, you might also need planning permission, but this is only usually the case if you live in a listed building or in a conservation area. If you're unsure what to do, your contractor can advise you, and you can always get in touch with your local authority for more information.

When choosing a contractor, make sure they are MCS certified, because this shows they're working to industry standards and is often a requirement for warranties and external tariffs

Always consult with a planning or conservation officer if your home is listed. They will be able to advise you clearly on the steps to take and the process for applying for planning permission. Your local authority can also assist with queries regarding the installation of new radiators in your home.

Types of Solar Battery Storage Systems

There are several different types of solar battery storage systems, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

AC-Coupled Battery Systems

AC-coupled battery systems store electricity after it has already been converted from DC to AC by the solar inverter, which makes them particularly well suited to homes that already have solar panels installed.

Pros

• ✔ Ideal for retrofitting existing solar PV systems
• ✔ Can be added without replacing the current inverter
• ✔ Flexible installation options

Cons

• ✖ Slightly less efficient due to multiple energy conversions
• ✖ Do have slightly higher energy losses compared to DC coupled systems

DC Coupled Battery Systems

DC coupled systems connect directly to the solar panels, storing energy before it is converted to AC, and they are most commonly used in new solar installations.

Pros

• ✔ Higher overall efficiency
• ✔ Fewer energy conversion losses
• ✔ Well suited to new build and full system installations

Cons

• ✖ Generally incompatible with retrofit projects
• ✖ Less flexible if upgrading an existing solar PV system

Hybrid Inverter Systems

Hybrid inverter systems combine solar and battery management into a single unit, offering a compact and streamlined setup. They are usually used in new installations where space and budget friendliness is a priority.

Pros

• ✔ Compact solution
• ✔ Lower upfront costs compared to separate systems
• ✔ Simple installation

Cons

• ✖ Can make future system upgrades difficult
• ✖ May require full inverter replacement to expand capacity later
• ✖ Potentially higher long term costs if upgrades are needed

Battery Capacity and Size

When choosing a solar battery storage system, battery capacity and size are two of the most important factors to consider. Battery capacity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), determines how much energy your battery can store and supply to your home.

The right battery size depends on your household’s energy needs and how much excess energy your solar panels typically generate. If your home uses a lot of electricity or you want to store more excess energy for use during evenings or power cuts, a larger battery storage system may be the best fit.

While bigger batteries come with a higher upfront cost, they can deliver greater savings on your energy bills and boost your energy independence by allowing you to rely less on the grid. Carefully matching your battery capacity to your energy needs ensures you get the most value from your investment and make the most of your solar panels.

Solar Battery Storage System Design

A well-designed solar battery storage system brings together a bunch of important pieces that enable a reliable and efficient way to store energy at home.

At the heart of things, you've got a solar panel array that harnesses sunlight, a battery storage unit that takes that electricity and stores it away, and an inverter that converts the DC power coming from your solar panels into the AC power your household appliances actually use.

The battery storage unit is highly customisable - you can get a small system for a smaller home, or go for a much bigger capacity if you've got loads of energy-hungry stuff at home to power.

The best bit is that many systems can also be set up to provide backup power during a grid outage, so if the power goes out, you'll still be okay. By combining all these parts, a solar battery storage system lets you store electricity generated by your solar panels and use it at exactly the right time.

Alternative Types of Energy Storage

While solar battery storage is the most common and effective solution, there are a few alternative ways for homeowners to manage any excess solar energy they generate, each with different implications.

Thermal Energy Storage

Thermal energy storage systems retain surplus solar energy as heat rather than electricity, and this stored heat is then typically used to supply hot water later in the day for activities such as washing clothes or bathing.

Pros

• ✔ Much cheaper than electrical battery systems
• ✔ Ideal for households with high hot water demand
• ✔ Simple technology with low maintenance requirements

Cons

• ✖ Cannot power household appliances
• ✖ Limited flexibility compared to electrical storage
• ✖ Only suitable for heat and hot water usage

Grid Tied Solar Systems with Export Tariffs

Grid tied solar energy systems send unused electricity back to the national grid rather than storing it anywhere at your home. Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), households are paid for the surplus energy they generate.

Pros

• ✔ Lower upfront costs compared to battery storage
• ✔ No on site storage equipment required
• ✔ Provides a financial return on excess generation

Cons

• ✖ Export rates are typically much lower than import prices
• ✖ Homes remain reliant on the grid during evenings and overnight
• ✖ Limited control over how exported energy is used

Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)

Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid systems use electric vehicle batteries as a temporary energy storage solution with bi-directional charging technology. This new and innovative approach allows stored energy in an EV to be used in the home or exported to the grid.

Pros

• ✔ Significant potential storage capacity
• ✔ Makes use of existing EV battery systems
• ✔ Could reduce reliance on dedicated home batteries

Cons

• ✖ High equipment and installation costs
• ✖ Limited vehicle and charger compatibility
• ✖ Limited control over how exported energy is used
• ✖ Not yet a practical option for most homeowners

Economic Benefits of Solar Batteries

Investing in a solar battery will give you a pretty substantial payoff in terms of cost savings. By storing the excess energy your solar panels generate, you can actually use a lot more of your own renewable energy and buy less electricity from the grid.

That means lower energy bills down the line, which in turn can help offset the initial cost of the battery storage system. And let's be honest, the savings are substantial enough that many households can see a payback period that makes the investment worthwhile.

Plus, having a solar battery can actually increase your property's value, making it more attractive to potential buyers seeking the energy independence and lower running costs that a solar battery can provide.

With energy prices on the rise and more and more of us looking to make our homes more sustainable, investing in a solar battery storage system is just about as smart a financial move as you can make for your household.

Environmental Impact

Solar battery storage systems are a real game-changer when it comes to reducing our environmental impact. By storing excess energy generated by your solar panels, you can use more clean, renewable energy and reduce your reliance on the grid, which all too often relies on fossil fuels to generate electricity.

That shift in how you're getting your energy helps lower your carbon footprint and supports the UK's transition to a more sustainable energy system. Every kilowatt-hour of solar electricity you use at home is a kilowatt-hour that doesn't come from a non-renewable source, which is a pretty big deal.

Now, I'm not going to gloss over the fact that the production of solar batteries has its own environmental impact. But the truth is the long-term benefits - reduced energy consumption, lower emissions, the ability to power your home with clean energy - far outweigh the initial footprint.

By choosing to go with a solar battery storage system, you're not only saving money, but you're also doing your part to help combat climate change.

Hiring Contractors Checklist for Solar Battery Storage Systems

One of the most critical aspects of this project is selecting the right installer, & to ensure that your solar battery storage system is safe, compliant, and delivers long-term value, you need to take this seriously.

First, check that the installer is MCS-certified and qualified to carry out electrical work under Part P of the UK Building Regulations. The importance of having this certification is that it confirms the individual is competent, & proof of this is often required for product warranties and export tariff eligibility.

Next, ask for detailed & itemised quotes in writing that outline exactly what is included in the project. Get these quotes from a few contractors so you can compare them for value & experience. You should also take a look at their testimonials, reviews, and previous jobs to get an idea of what you can expect from the finished product.

Last but not least, confirm product warranties and installer guarantees, and clarify what post-installation support and maintenance are included, such as system monitoring or fault resolution. You can use MyJobQuote to do this research, as it lets homeowners compare installers and choose a contractor that fits their budget.

Removing a Solar Battery Storage System

In some cases, a solar battery storage system may need to be removed - especially if it's being upgraded or moved to another home. This removal must always be carried out by a qualified pro, as the batteries must be isolated from the electrical supply.

Not only that, but these units are heavy and can contain hazardous materials, so careful handling is essential. The cost to remove these can vary based on a whole host of factors, including size, age, and the condition of the property & unit. You can expect to pay between £200 and £600, and possibly more if there are any complexities.

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