Solar Panels or Home Battery: What’s the Difference and What are the Pros and Cons of Both?

Monday 4th September 2023

With the increasing cost of electricity bills, many homeowners are now turning to renewable energy sources for power. Solar panels and home batteries are among the most popular ways of harnessing renewable energy, but how do you decide which one is right for you? In this blog post, we will compare the two, highlighting the differences, pros, and cons of each. By the end, you will have a better understanding of what both options offer, and which one suits your needs.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are the most popular way of generating renewable energy by harnessing the sun’s rays. A solar panel consists of photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electricity. When you install solar panels, you’ll need a lot of space, preferably on your roof, because they usually require a broad, sunny area. Daily sunlight will determine how much energy you generate, and you may need to install several solar panels to produce enough power for your home. Solar panels do not require much maintenance  and will last up to 25 years. Solar panels will work for you all year round regardless of the weather. Generally  solar panels  generate less electricity during winter months as there are fewer daylight hours and there is less sunshine.

Home Battery

The home battery, also called a solar battery, is a clever way of storing the energy generated by your solar panels or by the main grid. Home batteries allow access to energy when the Sun is down or the storage of ‘off peak rate’ energy from the main grid for use at peak times. The battery is essentially a storage unit that holds any excess  energy collected or produced during the day until it’s needed.

Tired of paying expensive energy bills? Say hello to Solo!

Start saving money right from day one and take charge of your energy bills.
Join us in the journey towards achieving Net Zero for your home or business.

Pros and Cons

Solar panels and home batteries have their pros and cons. Using solar panels is a great way of reducing the amount of carbon emissions. It’s a renewable energy source and environmentally friendly. However, solar panels require adequate space and a sunny area to generate sufficient solar power. On the other hand, using a home battery ensures that you always have power even when the sun goes down. It’s a suitable system for those in areas with frequent power outages and is also eco-friendly. Home batteries are expensive, and may require more energy investment, making it a challenge for some homeowners.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solar panels and home batteries are great options for those looking to switch to renewable energy sources. The main difference between solar panels and home batteries is that solar panels generate electricity, while home batteries store it. Solar panels work best in locations with ample sunlight to generate power, while a home battery is ideal for areas prone to power grid failures. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with renewable energy experts to see which renewable energy option works best based on your energy needs and the type of property you own.