It’s Worth To Have A Solar Battery If You :
- Use Most of Your Power at Night
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Solar panels generate during the day — if you’re not home, you might not use most of it.
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A battery stores excess energy for evening use = higher self-consumption.
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- Want to Maximise Savings
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Batteries reduce the need to buy expensive grid electricity in the evening.
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In New Zealand, grid power is ~26–35c/kWh, but solar exports may earn only 8–12c/kWh — better to store and use it than sell it back.
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- Value Backup Power
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Some hybrid battery systems provide blackout protection — keep essentials running (WiFi, lights, fridge).
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- Are Planning for EV Charging at Night
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Charge your car with solar power, even after sunset.
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It’s Not If You :
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Your solar usage is already high during the day (e.g., you work from home)
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Your feed-in tariff is relatively good
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You want the fastest return on investment — batteries typically increase payback period
Solar Feed-in Tariff Comparison – Auckland (as of June 2025)
| Company | Buy-back Rate | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy NZ | 13c/kWh (up to 20c with peak plan) | Flexible rates; higher export rates with battery + time-of-use plans. | Visit Octopus |
| Meridian Energy | 12c (standard), 17c with 3-year plan | Good fixed rate for systems under 10kW; long-term price stability. | Visit Meridian |
| Contact Energy | ~8c–10c/kWh | Basic export credit; rates depend on plan; lower than others. | Visit Contact |
| Powershop NZ | 13c/kWh (flat) | No contract lock-in; simple feed-in credit for small systems. | Visit Powershop |
Common Solar Battery Brands in New Zealand (2025)
| Brand | Best For | Price Range (Installed) |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Powerwall 3 | Whole-home backup, EV owners | $14,000 – $17,000 |
| Huawei Luna2000 | Modular, expandable systems | $7,000 – $9,500 |
| Sungrow SBR | Flexible hybrid solar+battery | $7,500 – $9,000 |
| Alpha ESS Smile-G3 | Budget-conscious, reliable | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| LG Chem RESU | Compact, proven technology | $8,000 – $11,000 |
Common Questions About Solar Batteries
How long do solar batteries last?
Most solar batteries come with a warranty of 10 years, Actual lifespan typically ranges between 8-15 years.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar system?
Yes! Many battery systems can be retrofitted to existing solar installations. Compatibility depends on your inverter type and wiring, so professional assessment is recommended.
What is the difference between lithium-ion and other battery types?
Lithium-ion batteries (like LiFePO4 and NMC) are the most common for solar storage due to high energy density, longer life, and safety. Other types like lead-acid are cheaper but bulkier and have shorter lifespan.
How do I maintain my solar battery?
Solar batteries require minimal maintenance. Keep the battery area clean, monitor performance via apps, and follow manufacturer guidelines for best results.