It goes without saying that different batteries come with different price tags. The home battery cost will depend on things like:
- The type of battery (lead acid vs lithium ion)
- Storage capacity
- Advanced features
- Brand reputation
- Who you buy it from
Before you sign on the dotted line, consult with a local solar installer in Ontario to determine which battery is best for you. They can tell you which product has the features you need and best fits your budget.
Additional equipment for solar batteries
It should be noted that battery banks connected to solar will need additional equipment to operate successfully. Here are some of the additional components you will need to integrate your solar system and battery bank:
- Inverter – This is what converts solar energy into usable DC or AC currents that power your home. You will need to connect your battery bank to an inverter to store usable energy.
- Charge controller – This regulates the flow of energy from the solar panels to the battery bank, helping to prevent overcharging.
- Mounting system – This is used to securely attach the battery bank to your wall while ensuring proper ventilation and easy access.
It is generally easier — and more affordable — to install your battery bank at the same time as your solar panel array. You may also qualify for the $5,000 grant for solar panels installations coupled with another $5,000 for new home energy batteries through the Home Renovations Savings Program. If your solar system isn’t designed with energy storage in mind, you will probably need to add a separate inverter specifically designed for battery banks.
The two most common scenarios where you would need to install a separate inverter include:
- If the inverter is not hybrid or compatible with a battery bank
- The battery bank operates independently of the solar inverter
Most solar installers will design a custom system for your home. Make sure you consult with your installer early on if you think you will add a battery bank to your system in the future. This will help you avoid complications and unnecessary expenses later on.
