Are Home Batteries Worth It in the UK? 2025 Cost vs Savings
With electricity prices in the UK remaining consistently high and grid demand increasing, many households and businesses across Stockport and Greater Manchester are looking for ways to reduce their energy bills and take greater control of their electricity usage. One solution growing rapidly in popularity is home battery storage — but is it actually worth the investment in 2025?
Whether you already have solar panels or you’re planning to install them soon, adding a battery can significantly improve your energy independence, reduce waste, and even protect you from future price rises. But like any investment, it’s important to understand the costs, savings and realistic payback times before making a decision.
What Is Home Battery Storage?
A home battery system stores excess electricity generated by your solar PV panels during the day, allowing you to use that energy when your home needs it — particularly in the evening and overnight.
Without a battery, any unused solar energy is usually exported back to the grid for a small payment (Smart Export Guarantee), while you still have to buy back electricity later when your panels are no longer generating.
With a battery:
- You store your solar energy
- You use more of the energy you generate
- You buy less electricity from your supplier
This increases your self-consumption — often from 30–40% to 70–85%.
How Much Does a Home Battery Cost in the UK in 2025?
The cost of a home battery varies depending on:
- System size (measured in kWh)
- Brand and technology (e.g. Tesla Powerwall, GivEnergy, Sig Energy)
- Installation complexity
- Whether it’s installed at the same time as solar
Typical UK Battery Costs (Installed):
| Battery Size | Typical Cost (Installed) | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| 5–7 kWh | £3,000 – £5,000 | Small homes / lower energy usage |
| 8–12 kWh | £5,000 – £8,500 | Average households or small offices |
| 13–20 kWh+ | £8,500 – £15,000 | Businesses, large homes, or high usage |
If installing with solar panels, you may save £500–£1,200 on total installation costs due to shared labour and equipment. There is also currently 0% VAT on battery installation, that’s for retrofit, standalone or installed at the same time as Solar PV.
Do You Need Solar Panels to Benefit from a Battery?
No — but it helps.
You can use a battery with low-cost overnight tariffs (e.g. Octopus Intelligent, EDF Go Electric), charging the battery at night and using the stored electricity during daytime peak rates.
However, homes and businesses with solar panels see the largest benefits, because you’re storing free renewable energy rather than just shifting costs.
How Much Can You Save?
Example for a typical Stockport household:
- 4kW solar PV system
- 10 kWh battery
- Annual electric bill before solar: ~£1,400
- Self-consumption increases from 35% → 80%
Estimated yearly savings:
£350–£650 from increased self-consumption
+ £100–£200 from reduced grid exports
Total benefit per year: £450–£850
Payback period:
7–12 years depending on usage and available tariffs.
Businesses in Greater Manchester with regular daytime usage (offices, workshops, warehouses) can see faster payback, as their solar energy is consumed immediately.
Are Batteries Worth It for Businesses?
Yes — especially in commercial environments where:
- Electricity usage during daylight is high
- Demand charges apply
- Operations run early morning or late evening
Battery storage helps smooth demand, avoid peak pricing, and protect against energy price volatility — a growing issue for UK businesses.
Businesses may also qualify for capital allowances tax benefits. Again, business can benefit from the 0% VAT on battery storage installations as well.
Battery Lifespan — How Long Do They Last?
Most modern lithium home batteries come with:
- 10–15 year warranties
- 6,000–10,000 charge cycles
- Real-world lifespan of 12–18 years
Good installation and correct charge settings can extend lifespan.
Benefits Summary
| Benefit | Homeowners | Businesses |
|---|---|---|
| Lower electricity bills | ✔ | ✔ |
| Increased energy independence | ✔ | ✔ |
| Protection from price rises | ✔ | ✔ |
| Backup power during outages (optional) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Low running & maintenance costs | ✔ | ✔ |
Useful Resources
- Energy Saving Trust – Solar & Storage Guidance: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/solar-panels/
- Ofgem – Smart Export Guarantee Info: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/smart-export-guarantee-seg
Interested in Home Battery Storage in Stockport?
Solarus Energy Limited is a specialist in solar PV, battery storage and renewable energy systems for homes and businesses across Stockport, Manchester and Cheshire.
We supply and install leading brands including Fox ESS, SigEnergy, GivEnergy, Sunsynk, Tesla Powerwall, with MCS-accredited installation teams.
Request a free quotation – Contact Us