Your solar reportDo I need a battery combined with my rooftop solar?
Solar alone typically covers 25 to 40% of a household's usage. Adding a battery can lift self-consumption to an estimated 60 to 90%.
Why solar alone leaves savings on the table
Most solar generation peaks around midday, when many households are out. Surplus is exported for a per kWh payment, or simply not captured. The gap between what you generate and what you use is where savings quietly disappear.
A day in an energy-equipped home
- Daytime: solar covers baseline demand
- Midday surplus: runs appliances, charges an EV, runs a heat pump
- Remaining surplus: stored in the battery
- Evening and overnight: the battery covers the peak
What each piece does
The battery is the biggest lever for self-consumption. An EV acts like a mobile battery and cuts commuting costs. A heat pump moves heating to efficient electricity you can partly generate yourself.
Do I need all four at once?
Most people build up over time. Start with solar and battery, where most of the financial benefit starts. Switch to an EV when the car is due. Add a heat pump when the heating system needs replacing.
Frequently asked questions
Is self-consumption always better than exporting?
Generally yes. The electricity you avoid buying is usually worth more than the export rate.
Can I add a battery to existing solar?
Yes. That is system expansion rather than a new install.
All figures are modelled estimates for typical UK rooftops, not guarantees for any individual home. Rules, funding and eligibility can change, so check current government and supplier guidance before deciding.