BATTERIES

Batteries at Smart Energy Market

Solar batteries are changing how Australians power their homes. Instead of exporting excess solar energy back to the grid for a small credit, you can store it and use it later when electricity is expensive or during blackouts. At Smart Energy Market, we give you the essentials so you can understand what to look for and make confident decisions when buying a battery.

Solar Battery Comparison

Not all batteries are the same. They differ in usable capacity, round-trip efficiency, cycle life, warranty terms, and backup capability. Our comparison tools and guides make it easy to see which batteries offer the best value for money.

We look at:

Usable storage capacity (measured in kilowatt hours, kWh)
Round-trip efficiency (how much energy is lost when charging and discharging)
Cycle life (how many charge cycles before capacity degrades)
Warranty coverage and expected lifespan
Backup power features for when the grid goes down

By comparing the key specifications side by side, you can choose a battery that matches your household’s needs.

Are Solar Batteries Worth It?

Batteries reduce bills by shifting your solar use into the evening, protect you against rising power prices, and give peace of mind during blackouts. The financial case depends on:

Local electricity tariffs and rebates.
How much power you use at night.
The upfront cost versus long-term savings.

For some households the payback is clear, while others value the security more than the dollars. Either way, a battery future-proofs your home for EV charging and smart energy use.

Best Solar Batteries

Australia has a wide choice of quality batteries. In 2025, leading options include:

Tesla Powerwall 3 – strong performance, reliable backup, user-friendly app.
Sungrow and Goodwe – affordable options with solid warranties and broad installer support.
BYD and Pylontech – modular designs that can be expanded as your energy needs grow.
Sonnen and Senec – premium European engineering with excellent track records in durability.
Sigenergy – new generation battery with high efficiency, flexible capacity options, and advanced AI-driven monitoring.
SolaX – popular in Australia for its strong local presence, competitive pricing, and straightforward integration with solar systems.
Redback and Tindo – homegrown Australian brands offering local service and tailored solutions.

These brands are proven, trusted, and widely available, making them safe and future-ready choices for most homes.

Solar Battery Price Index

Prices vary with brand, size, and installer. Typical installed costs in 2025 are:

6 kWh – $5,000 to $7,500
10 kWh – $8,500 to $13,000
13 kWh – $11,000 to $16,000
15–20 kWh – $14,000 to $22,000

Cheaper options exist, but higher quality batteries with better warranties often provide stronger long-term value.

Solar Battery Calculator

Trying to decide if a battery is right for you? Our calculator helps estimate:

How much solar energy you will store vs export
The annual savings from using stored energy during peak times
The expected payback period in your city
The potential benefits of joining a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)

This tool helps households model scenarios before making a decision.

Homeowner Battery Essentials

Before you buy, keep in mind:

Choose a size that matches your nightly energy use.
Install in a safe location such as a garage or outdoor rated area.
Read the warranty carefully, as coverage varies widely.
A good installer is critical — setup affects both performance and safety.

These basics will save you from costly mistakes.

Virtual Power Plants (VPPs)

Joining a VPP can lower costs. You allow an electricity retailer to control your battery in exchange for bill credits or discounts. The benefits include extra income, but risks include your battery being drained before a blackout.

A simple rule: if you want maximum control, keep your battery private. If you want extra savings, compare VPP offers in your state.