BrightGridMany homeowners who installed solar panels several years ago later decide that they want battery storage. In many cases, a battery can be added, but the existing inverter and electrical installation need to be assessed first.
The existing inverter is important
The installer needs to identify the existing inverter model, age, capacity and battery compatibility. Some systems can accept a battery directly while others require additional equipment.
AC-coupled battery systems
An AC-coupled battery uses its own inverter and can be added to some existing solar systems without replacing the original solar inverter.
DC-coupled battery systems
A DC-coupled configuration can connect the battery more directly with the solar generation through a compatible hybrid inverter.
| Approach | Potential benefit |
|---|---|
| AC-coupled | Can be useful for certain existing solar systems |
| DC-coupled | Can provide an integrated solar and battery architecture |
| Inverter replacement | May modernise the entire system |
What should be checked before a retrofit?
- Existing inverter
- Solar array size
- Battery location
- Electrical capacity
- Consumer unit
- Monitoring system
- Battery compatibility
- Warranty implications
Add a battery to existing solar
We can assess your existing system and determine which battery retrofit options are technically suitable.
Explore Battery RetrofitFrequently asked questions
Can I add a battery to my existing solar panels?
In many cases, yes. The existing inverter, solar array and electrical installation need to be assessed first.
Do I need to replace my solar inverter?
Not always. Some retrofit batteries use separate battery inverters, while other systems may require a compatible hybrid inverter.
Is a solar battery retrofit worth it?
The value depends on your electricity consumption, export arrangements, battery cost and ability to use stored electricity.
Fiona Mitchell
Energy Storage Consultant at BrightGrid Energy
