Benefits of Battery Storage for Homeowners

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Renewable Energy

While renewable energy is widely recognized for its importance, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are often less understood. Without proper storage, a significant amount of renewable energy can go unused—between October 2022 and January 2023, the UK wasted enough wind power to fuel 1.2 million homes.

By investing in a solar system without BESS, you risk losing valuable energy that could otherwise power your home or business efficiently. Beyond supporting sustainability, BESS can save you up to 85% on your energy bills, increase independence, and provide backup during outages.

Save on Your Bills

Research from industry reports shows that homeowners with a battery energy storage system (BESS) could save between 50% and 70% on their energy bills, depending on usage patterns and energy tariffs. As energy costs continue to rise, the potential for savings becomes even more critical. With over 3.53 million households in England experiencing fuel poverty in 2023, BESS can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, lower peak time consumption, and allow consumers to store cheaper, off-peak energy, ultimately easing the financial burden of fuel bills.

Store the Renewable Energy You Generate

You’ve already made the leap by installing solar panels or even adding wind turbines or hydro generators for your home or business. But without battery storage, a significant portion of the energy you generate could go unused.

Think of it this way: energy production doesn’t always align with your energy needs. You generate power during sunny or windy conditions, but most of your consumption happens during peak hours—late afternoon and evening—when electricity prices are at their highest.

This is where battery storage becomes essential. By storing excess energy produced earlier in the day, you can use it when demand is highest, reducing your reliance on the grid and saving money.

Beyond Renewables

Beyond generating renewable energy, combining battery storage with smart tariffs is an effective way to optimize your energy usage and reduce costs. Smart tariffs offer different electricity rates depending on the time of day, with cheaper prices during off-peak hours. By using battery storage, you can store electricity during these low-cost periods and then use it when prices are higher. This allows you to save money even if you aren't generating your own renewable energy, giving you greater control over your electricity consumption and expenses.

Take Control of Your Energy Usage

Gain greater control over your energy usage. Instead of being subject to fluctuating grid prices, you can store electricity during low-cost periods or when your solar panels produce excess power. This stored energy can be used when rates are higher or during peak hours, significantly lowering your bills.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Installing a battery storage system helps you significantly reduce your carbon footprint. By storing excess energy generated from renewable sources like solar or wind, you can rely less on fossil fuel-powered grid electricity. This not only decreases your dependence on non-renewable energy but also ensures that your home or business uses clean energy more efficiently.

Reduce Demand on Grid Infrastructure

Using a battery storage system helps reduce demand on grid infrastructure by allowing you to store energy during off-peak times when demand is lower. This reduces the strain on the grid during peak hours when most people are using electricity simultaneously.

Make Money Selling Back to the Grid

With a battery storage system, you can sell excess energy back to the grid and potentially earn money. When your battery is fully charged, any surplus energy produced by your solar panels can be exported back to the grid, often through schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

Have a Backup Power Supply Just in Case

A battery storage system provides a reliable backup power supply in case of grid outages. In the event of a power cut, the stored energy in your battery can keep essential devices and appliances running, offering peace of mind that your home or business won’t be left in the dark.

Customise the Size of Your Battery Storage

Customise the size of your setup to fit your energy needs. Whether you're looking to power just a few essential appliances or cover most of your home or business’s energy consumption, battery systems come in various sizes and capacities.

Add Features to Your Battery Energy Storage System

You can enhance your battery energy storage system by adding various features to optimize performance and convenience.

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Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Explore more about battery energy storage systems and their role in optimizing energy use, saving on bills, and providing backup during outages.

Solar Panels

Learn more about solar panels, their benefits, and how they work with battery energy storage systems.

Smart Tariffs

Understand how smart tariffs can work with battery energy storage systems to maximize energy efficiency and cost savings.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Find out how the Smart Export Guarantee allows you to earn money by selling excess renewable energy back to the grid.

Government Incentives for Renewable Installations

Solar panel grants, such as the ECO4 scheme, provide an opportunity for UK consumers to obtain free solar panels, significantly reducing the cost of installation. Additionally, the current 0% VAT on solar panels, batteries, and other renewable energy products offers a substantial discount, saving over £2,850 on the purchase of a 4kW system. With the Smart Export Guarantee, homeowners can potentially earn between £45 and £80 by selling excess energy back to the grid, further increasing the financial benefits on top of energy savings.

Solar panels can reduce energy bills by up to £600 per year for an average-sized home, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to produce electricity. But the question remains: are they worth the investment in the UK in 2024? This article will explore the various government schemes available to help you decide.

What solar panel funding is available in the UK?

The UK offers several government initiatives aimed at encouraging the adoption of solar panels, which help promote renewable energy use and reduce carbon emissions. The EU’s Renewable Energy Directive has set a target for all member countries, including the UK, to achieve 32% of their energy from renewable sources by 2030. The UK is actively working toward this goal by introducing new schemes and incentives within the renewable energy sector.

This push toward renewable energy has coincided with a decrease in the cost of solar panels, making them more affordable without compromising quality. While traditional grants for solar panels are not currently available, there are still funding opportunities in the UK. At present, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is the primary scheme open to new applicants, allowing homeowners to benefit financially from their solar energy production.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

The SEG is a government-backed initiative that allows households with solar panels to earn money by exporting surplus electricity back to the grid. Energy suppliers are obligated to offer tariffs to customers who generate renewable electricity, including solar energy, and feed it into the national grid.

Eligibility

Open to households with solar PV systems that meet the required standards. You must register with an energy supplier that offers SEG tariffs.

0% VAT on Solar Panels

As part of efforts to encourage the adoption of renewable energy, the UK government has reduced VAT on solar panels and other energy-saving materials to 0%. This reduction helps lower the overall cost of installing solar panels.

Eligibility

Applies to the installation of solar panels and other qualifying energy-saving materials in residential properties, provided the installation and product are carried out together.

ECO4 Scheme

The ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) scheme is primarily aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes, particularly for low-income households. While it focuses on insulation and heating improvements, under certain circumstances, it may support solar panel installations.

Eligibility

Targeted at low-income households, those on certain benefits, or in vulnerable situations. Eligibility depends on various factors including household income, benefits received, and the energy efficiency of the home.

Local Authority and Regional Grants

Various local councils and regional authorities offer grants, loans, or financial assistance for renewable energy installations, including solar panels. These programs vary widely depending on location and the specific objectives of the local government.

Eligibility

Varies by region and program. It’s advisable to check with your local council or regional authority to see if any such incentives are currently available.

Energy Company Funding Schemes

Some energy companies offer their own funding programs for customers interested in installing solar panels. These can include low-interest loans, grants, or discounts as part of their broader sustainability efforts.

Eligibility

Dependent on the specific terms and conditions set by the energy company offering the funding.

Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) (For Solar Thermal)

Although focused on heating systems, the RHI scheme provides payments to households that install renewable heating technologies, including solar thermal systems, which are used for heating water.

Eligibility

Available to homeowners who install eligible solar thermal systems for hot water production.

How to apply for a solar panel UK government grant scheme?

To apply for a solar panel grant or government incentive in the UK, start by determining which schemes you qualify for, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) or the ECO4 Scheme. You'll need to work with an approved installer, who can help confirm eligibility and guide you through the application process. Once your installation is complete and verified, you'll receive your incentive, such as payments for energy exported to the grid under the SEG or financial support from a grant. Always keep records of your application and installation for ongoing compliance and future reference.

Step 1: Determine which solar panel grant or incentive you qualify for, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) or the ECO4 Scheme.

Step 2: Find and contact an approved installer to get quotes and confirm your eligibility for the scheme.

Step 3: Apply for the chosen scheme through the appropriate channels (e.g., energy supplier for SEG or a participating energy company for ECO4).

Step 4: Proceed with the installation of your solar panels once your application is approved.

Step 5: Ensure your installation is verified if required, and start receiving your incentive or grant.

Step 6: Keep all documentation for ongoing compliance and future reference.

how long does it take to install a solar panel once approved

Once approved, the installation of solar panels typically takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation. The timeline can vary slightly based on factors like weather conditions, roof accessibility, and the specific setup of your property. However, the overall process from approval to installation can take a few weeks, including scheduling and any necessary preparation work.

5 Benefits of Renewable Energy for Businesses

In today's business landscape, sustainability has become a crucial element for success and longevity. As global awareness of climate change intensifies and the finite nature of fossil fuels becomes more apparent, businesses are increasingly turning to renewable energy solutions. This shift is not just about environmental responsibility; it's also about economic efficiency and corporate image. Wired by Jessops, is a leading authority in electrical and renewable energy solutions, we are at the forefront of this transformation. Explore the numerous benefits that renewable energy offers to businesses and how Wired by Jessops can facilitate this transition with our expertise and comprehensive services.

Cost Savings 

One of the most compelling reasons for businesses to invest in renewable energy is the significant reduction in operating costs. Renewable energy systems, such as solar PV panels and battery storage, can dramatically lower electricity bills by generating on-site power. Over time, these savings can result in a favourable return on investment. Wired by Jessops can help businesses take advantage of these financial benefits by providing top-notch installation and maintenance services, ensuring that the systems operate at maximum efficiency.

Environmental Impact

Businesses play a pivotal role in combating climate change. By adopting renewable energy, companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. This move not only aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances a company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile. Environmentally conscious customers are increasingly favouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Wired by Jessops supports businesses in implementing these sustainable practices through expert guidance and efficient installation of renewable energy solutions, helping them make a meaningful impact on the environment.

Energy Independence and Security

Energy independence is another critical benefit of renewable energy systems. By generating their own electricity, businesses can reduce their reliance on external energy suppliers and protect themselves from fluctuating energy prices. Renewable energy systems, such as solar panels combined with battery storage, ensure a continuous power supply even during grid disruptions. This reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on an uninterrupted power supply. Wired by Jessops expertise in installing these systems guarantees that businesses can achieve optimal energy security, ensuring their operations run smoothly regardless of external conditions.

Enhanced Corporate Image

Investing in renewable energy can significantly enhance a business's reputation as a forward-thinking and environmentally responsible entity. Being seen as a green business can attract eco-conscious customers and partners, providing a competitive edge in the marketplace. Many companies have successfully enhanced their brand image through renewable energy initiatives, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. Wired by Jessops can provide tailored renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and electric vehicle (EV) charging, that not only meet a business's energy needs but also align with its brand values, helping to boost its corporate image and appeal.

Empower Your Business with Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy is a forward-thinking investment for businesses, offering numerous benefits such as cost savings, environmental stewardship, energy independence, and an enhanced corporate image. Wired by Jessops stands as a trusted expert in electrical and renewable energy solutions, providing comprehensive services including the installation of solar PV panels, battery storage systems, and EV chargers. By embracing renewable energy, businesses can secure their energy needs more sustainably and contribute positively to global efforts in combating climate change. Contact Wired by Jessops today to discover how renewable energy can transform your operations and lead to a more efficient and environmentally friendly future.