You’ve got solar or are purchasing a solar package, and the prospect of continued savings without sunlight seems appealing. After all, since the launch of the original Tesla Powerwall, most energy investors tend to remark: “I’ll purchase batteries when they come down in price”. The good news is solar batteries have reduced in 2023, and the investment cost is levelling from further reductions. However, to truly understand the best solar batteries Perth customers can buy, sidestep an appealing entry price and shop for a home battery from a Cost per kWh perspective. Here’s how.
Contents
To understand the best solar batteries, understanding mainstream parameters is essential. Solar battery parameters can get initial battery research off to a somewhat confusing start unless working with energy storage daily. Nonetheless, we’ll do our best to simplify a complex topic.
Initially, we must add clarity to the word mainstream. Mainstream is the most voluminous commercially available battery technology installed in the market (because there are many). The beauty here is that we can generalise two main sub-categories with distinct advantages for the average home in Perth, Western Australia.
AC coupled: AC-coupled solar batteries are an all-in-one battery option (one big box). All that is required is to connect it to the switchboard, and away it goes. There’s more involved, but we’ll expand on that within the individual solar batteries section. As simple and effective as AC-coupled solar batteries sound, specific design limitations exist that could affect an AC-coupled solar battery being your ideal energy storage solution.
DC coupled HV: DC-coupled solar batteries connect to an inverter, usually a hybrid solar and battery inverter. With greater design flexibility for increased energy security, DC-coupled HV solar batteries are rapidly gaining mainstream market share. With an existing compatible solar energy system (hybrid inverter and energy consumption monitor), DC-coupled HV solar batteries are the simplest and least expensive to install for basic load shaving functions (continued energy savings when the sun isn’t shining).
Note: AC-coupled solar batteries are effectively DC-coupled batteries and a battery inverter in one neat box with set parameters.
You may be thinking we forgot DC coupled LV – low voltage. Mainstream (typical household) inverter technologies are shifting away from Low Voltage DC-coupled solar batteries for new inverter releases for two reasons. 1) Installation complexity is far less with high voltage (lower current) solar battery systems. 2) With less installation complexity, high-voltage DC coupled solar are aesthetically more appealing, assisting greater product uptake. DC coupled Low Voltage solar batteries will always have their place within solar, but that’s a post for another time.
Defining Parameters
- Residential targeted battery designs.
- Mainstream, high-volume uptake or integration potential for the average Perth home.
- AC Coupled solar batteries.
- DC Coupled high voltage (HV) solar batteries compatible with high adoption solar and battery inverters (hybrid inverters).
- Lithium chemistry: NMC or LiFePO4.
- Cost per kWh: Sample unit cost (base retrofit supply & installation) ÷ Useable storage.
- Ideal battery model size for determining Cost per kWh: 9 to 15 kWh – 13 kWh average.
Calculate cost per kWh
Important: When receiving a quote for a solar battery, one of the best calculations is to assess the Cost per kWh for which you anticipate to outlay for the battery. Cost per kWh normalises your battery cost away from the sales hype and is relatively simple to achieve:
Quoted solar battery price (without solar costs) ÷ Useable storage = Cost per kWh.
Tesla Powerwall example: $14,490 base retrofit cost ÷ 13.5 kWh = $1073 per kWh
It’s important to seek out the useable storage capacity amount as many of the solar batteries Perth customers will consider operate at 10% less than the marketed size due to Depth of Discharge (DoD). Now that there’s a somewhat common pricing gauge for solar battery shopping, discover the top 10 solar batteries Perth customers can buy in 2023.
Top 10 Solar Batteries 2023
Cost per kWh figures used are PSW Energy or market samples at the time of the compilation (post date) and exclude seasonal promotions or variances after the post date.
10. SENEC.Home
9 kWh, cost per kWh: $1332
Shop: SENEC.Home ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 4.5 kWh useable
- Flexible solar array design
- Compatible with most existing solar
- Made in Germany
- Limited blackout protection
- Ethernet only communication
- Warranty caution
SENEC build dependable solar and battery systems. From 2023, these proven specifications now languish mainstream features. This shouldn’t detract for those seeking a proven product with local Perth based support. Made in Germany and headquartered in Perth, Western Australia for the Australian market. The SENEC.Home is ideal for solar array oversizing when a property is limited by inverter capacity facilitated by a minimal or full storage option, although a fixed-line ethernet connection to the modem is required (no WiFi card) to maintain warranty.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | AC coupled; Single phase or 3 phase |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 4.5 kWh |
Maximum continuous output power | 5 kW |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Limited, aditional hardware required |
Warranty | 10 years or 12,000 cycles |
A solid warranty exists upon the ability to maintain internet connection/modem activation intermittent no greater than 2 weeks. Features lack competing options of similar AC-coupled characteristics. However, the single or 3 phase design and increased solar array capacity options will appeal where others can’t. There’s an ideal battery for every situation and the SENEC.Home maintains relevance against alternative designs aiming for consumer appeal in 2023.
The best solar batteries Perth & Bunbury region is one thing, but you need a hassle-free installer. Nice to meet you!
9. Growatt ARK XH
13.8 kWh, cost per kWh: $976
Shop Growatt ARK XH ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 4.6 kWh useable
- Scalable in 2.5 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Growatt XH hybrid inverter compatibility only
- Back-up box for blackout protection
- 50% energy retention, 10 years
Growatt has its place in the market for those needing a low cost hybrid solar package to experience the benefits and an option to upgrade to at least two battery options in the future. Customers can take confidence knowing Growatt is an original equipment manufacturer for many solar panel brands entering the inverter and battery market from 2024. The battery may be slightly higher cost per kWh is offset by a more than ideal inverter price.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Growatt XH hybrid inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 4.6 kWh and 2.3 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 21 Amps: Inverter model influences power |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Back-up box required |
Warranty | 50% energy retention at 10 years |
Sufficient for the price but when compared to alternative options, greater specifications are available.
8. SolarEdge Energy Bank
9.7 kWh, cost per kWh: $1442
Express your interest: Contact ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 9.7 kWh useable
- Scalable in 9.7 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Selected SolarEdger inverter compatibility
- Back-up interface for blackout protection
- 70% energy retention, 10 years
It is time SolarEdge developed a suitable solar battery Perth SolarEdge system owners can genuinely consider for an all-in-one energy ecosystem and the Energy Bank is worthy solution. It’s not cheap though, but a complimentary energy storage solution if already invested in the SolarEdge suite. A DC coupled nature of the Energy Bank ensures solar array capacity can total 200% of a compatible SolarEdge inverters output rating (twice the nominated value). Doing so creates a convenient DC sub-network for energy system owners away from grid limitations. Could DC electric vehicle chargers expand the growing appeal of DC coupled self sufficient power supplies, time will tell. However SolarEdge would be nicely positioned to be first to market with such a product.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Selected SolarEdge inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 9.7 kWh and 9.7 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 5 kW |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Back-up interface required |
Warranty | 70% energy retention at 10 years; unlimited cycles. |
SolarEdge’s energy bank boast admirable specifications with a premium price tag. That being said, a one brand energy ecosystem solution is often a wise choice for advanced product features. SolarEdge has its place in the market as a holistic product suite. Compliment it by following the most aligned path and expectations are more likely to be exceeded than not. SolarEdge in general is a premium solar product offering, and in turn the Energy Bank’s cost per kWh is relative to SolarEdge’s market position.
The best solar batteries Perth & Bunbury region is one thing, but you need a hassle-free installer. Nice to meet you!
7. Alpha ESS SMILE-G3
9.6 kWh, cost per kWh: $988
Shop: Alpha ESS G3 ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 9.6 kWh useable
- Solar array design flexibility
- Solar & battery inverter inbuilt
- Limited blackout protection options
- Modular at 9.6 kWh increments
- 5-yr internal inverter warranty (upgradable)
In some ways, Alpha ESS has become a polarising battery among installers. It’s either loved or loathed. No matter whose opinion is expressed, Alpha ESS is on to its 3rd generation of energy storage solutions, and it’s a considerable improvement from when many opinions were formed. Alpha ESS has proven to support its products over time in the Australian market, and consumers will appreciate manufacturers equally invested in their energy security.
Alpha ESS ticks the boxes as a simplified energy storage solution for an appealing initial capital outlay. On a cost-per-kWh basis, though, the price is more relative to a mid-range cost most likely to the incorporated inverter technology inside. Software is often an unsung hero that encourages greater user experience and the new release Alpha ESS all-in-one monitoring platform competes with some of the best. Fast, simple, clean and detailed if required. Software is a fundamental and exciting attribute within the Alpha ESS range that most will realise the benefits from day one.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | AC coupled; single phase (3-phase models available) |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 9.6 kWh and 9.6 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 5 kW |
Blackout protection options | Yes: limited current |
Warranty | 80% energy retention at 10 years |
There is a reason Alpha ESS is one of the highest selling solar batteries Perth residents have adopted, customers can see the value when compared to alternative options in the market even if certain specifications languish. Consumers should preference the newer specification G3 (3rd generation) models over ageing G2 models for a more enhanced experience.
6. Sonnen Evo
10 kWh, cost per kWh: $1349
Express your interest: Contact ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 10 kWh useable
- Accomodating blackout protection
- Compatible with most existing solar
- Made in Germany
- Limited solar array design flexibility
- Elevated cost per kWh
- Ethernet only communication
It’s hard not to admire a German company taking a vested interest in the Australian market, and Sonnen’s Evo range are the solar batteries Perth customers choose as one of the more localised options operating from the ex Holden factory in Adelaide. An AC-coupled solar battery only the Sonnen EVO is ideal as a retrofit energy storage solution for most existing solar energy systems. However, with no WiFi card inbuiilt, a direct to modem, fixed line ethernet connection is required for system monitoring and warranty integrity.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | AC coupled; Single phase (3 phase compatible with limitations) |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 10 kWh |
Maximum continuous output power | 5 kW |
Blackout protection options | Yes |
Warranty | 10 years or 10,000 cycles |
Respectable specifications with up to 7500W in backup made (30 secs) ensure the Sonnen Evo is ranked as one of the top 10 solar batteries Perth customers can buy in 2023. The cost per kWh will make the the adoption barrier harder than alternatives. Although for those that admire the value of robust German engineering and a local Australian base, it’s worth it.
5. Huawei LUNA (iStore)
15 kWh, cost per kWh: $899
Pros & Cons
- Base 5 kWh useable
- Scalable in 5 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Huawei hybrid inverter compatibility only
- Back-up box for blackout protection
- 60% energy retention, 10 years
- iStore software questionmark
Huawei’s LUNA battery is a logical step for those seeking a Huawei inverter-compatible DC-coupled battery. An appealing base cost per kWh due to the LUNA’s simplified nature as primarily a load shaving energy storage device. Expansion features such as a backup box are available but come at an additional expense.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Huawei L1 & M1 hybrid inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 5 kWh and 5 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 5 KW |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Back-up box required |
Warranty | 60% energy retention at 10 years (or 16450 kWh of energy throughput) |
Due to potential future software question marks, we recommend the LUNA solar batteries Perth Huawei system owners should purchase are Huawei branded batteries prior to the iStore take over (late 2023). For all intents and purposes the hardware will remain the same. However, further clarification is required surrounding how iStore will support software integrations with Huawei branded inverters.
4. BYD HVS/HVM
13.8 kWh, cost per kWh: $1043
Shop: BYD HVS/HVM ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 5.1/11 kWh useable
- Scalable in 2.5/2.76 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Varried inverter brand compatibility
- Inverter determined blackout protection
- 60% energy retention, 10 years
With broader inverter compatibility than any other DC coupled high-voltage solar battery in Australia, the BYD HVS/HVM is at the forefront of consideration for many with a compatible inverter. Based on this list, popular mainstream inverter compatibilities include: Fronius Primo & Symo GEN24 models, Goodwe ET & EH models, SMA Sunny Boy Storage, Sungrow SH RT (3 phase) hybrid models and Solis RHI-3P-HVES-5G models. Diverse inverter options ensures the BYD range of high voltage solar batteries Perth shoppers will likely consider should inverter compatibility prevail.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Nominated inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 5.1/11 kWh and 2.5/2.7 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 25/50 Amps: Inverter model influences power |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Back-up box required |
Warranty | 60% energy retention at 10 years |
A highly regarded solar battery among industry professionals, the BYD HVS/HVM specifications are capable in most instances for diverse electrical loads. Ultimate capabilities depend on the nominated inverter model.
3. Goodwe Lynx Home F series
13.5 kWh, cost per kWh: $1091
Shop Goodwe Lynx ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 6.55 kWh useable
- Scalable in 3.27 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Goodwe only inverter compatibility
- Maximum battery stack 16.4 kWh
We’re forecasting a promising future for the range of Goodwe Lynx solar batteries Perth Goodwe owners will consider, and a significant reason why we recommend opting for a Goodwe Hybrid inverter when purchasing a Goodwe solar energy system. That’s all that can be said about this promising battery by an Australian top 3 inverter manufacturer by sales volume.
The Goodwe Lynx Home F series is poised to be among the most popular DC-coupled solar batteries Perth customers will consider in 2024 and beyond.
Watch this space…
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Goodwe EH & ET inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 6.55 kWh and 3.27 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 25 Amps: Inverter model influences power |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Inverter model influences options |
Warranty | 70% energy retention at 10 years (or 4000 full charge cycles) |
Goodwe build accomodating inverter technologies. When purchasing a Goodwe hybrid inverter, additional energy expectation features exist within such as blackout protection options (no back up box required) Although these features still often require additional labour units to facilitate above base battery costs. Nonetheless, a more aesthetically please solution is assured. The Goodwe Lynx Home F series battery specifications combined with a Goodwe ET or EH inverter is a cable solar and energy storage solution built to meet the needs of most.
2. Sungrow SBR HV
12.8 kWh, cost per kWh: $859
Shop Sungrow SBR HV ›
Pros & Cons
- Base 9.6 kWh useable
- Scalable in 3.27 kWh portions
- Blackout protection compatible
- DC coupled design flexibility
- Sungrow only inverter compatibility
- 60% energy retention, 10 years
Sungrow SBR HV solar battery offers outstanding affordability from a world-renowned inverter manufacturer. Offering seamless compatibility with the Sungrow RS (single phase) and RT (three phase) hybrid inverter range. Comprised of Samsung LiFePO4 battery chemistry, the Sungrow SBR HV offers one of the best value platforms to take advantage of load shaving with energy storage.
| Key features | |
|---|---|
Classification | DC coupled; Sungrow RS & RT hybrid inverters |
Energy storage (useable) | Base 9.6 kWh and 3.2 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 30 Amps: Inverter model influences power |
Blackout protection options | Yes: Inverter model influences options |
Warranty | 60% energy retention at 10 years (or 4200 kWh of energy throughput) |
Sungrow hybrid inverters may present a higher capital investment requirement when compared to ither hybrid options by competing brands, however the Sungrow SBR HV solar battery easily mitigates the elevated investment through one of the best value battery options in the market on a cost per kWh basis. The Sungrow SBR HV, when combined with a Sungrow RS or RT hybrid inverter is potentially one of the most comprehensive DC coupled solar batteries Perth shoppers can consider for the for diverse power supplies and cost.
Did you know PSW has the broadest range of solar batteries Perth customers can consider? The best prices are a bonus.
1. Tesla PowerWall
13.5 kWh, cost per kWh: $1036
Shop: Powerwall ›
Pros & Cons
- Gateway 2 capabilities
- Base 13.5 kWh useable storage
- Blackout protection options
- Storm watch protection
- Limited solar array design flexibility
- Modular at 13.5 kWh increments
The Tesla Powerwall is the most popular AC-coupled solar battery renowned among energy storage enthusiasts, with over 500,000 units installed internationally. It also presents as one of the best solar batteries Perth homeowners can consider by specification. If we know anything about Tesla, they rarely compromise on requirements and aim for unrivalled user experience to influence market share. Tesla Powerwall is a testament to such design, with early adopters praising Powerwall.
Perhaps the reason behind the widespread adoption of Powarwall is that its features extend beyond basic load shaving, the primary purpose of mainstream solar batteries. Tesla Powerwall is an entire home intelligent energy management solution and backup power supply and at an enticing cost per kWh offers outstanding value when compared to batteries that only offer load shaving within the cost.
| Comparative features | |
|---|---|
Classification | AC coupled; Single phase (3 phase compatible with limitations) |
Energy storage (useable) | 13.5 kWh and 13.5 kWh increments |
Maximum output power | 5 kW |
Blackout protection options | Yes – comprehensive |
Warranty | 70% energy retention at 10 years; unlimited cycles. |
Tesla Powerwall is the solar battery Perth solar owners choose when they require a battery compatible with their existing solar energy system, irrelevant of the inverter type. Possessing leading specifications, a safe warranty, Tesla ecosystem compatibility, unmatched energy intelligence features and a competitive cost per kWh, Powerwall ranks number one of the best solar batteries Perth customers can consider in 2023.
Continued research: Is Tesla Powerwall worth it for you? Lifespan, cost and warranty ›
On the radar batteries
These are new to the market or relevant solar batteries Perth shoppers are likely to consider. Known brands where we see the potential for increased demand.
Enphase
AC coupled and a reputation for good product outcomes at the more premium end of the spectrum. Cost per kWh and IQ System Controller cost (if not already available) will ensure the Enphase IQ Battery 5P remains accommodated by those with a specific Enphase need. A 15-year product warranty as standard is impressive. AC coupled single phase, Useable 5 kWh, Maximum power: 3.8 kW, Warranty 15 years, Cost per kWh (estimated) $1500 + IQ System Controller.
Enphase IQ Battery 5P datasheet
LG
The LG range of solar batteries Perth customers could access was one of the most versatile among hybrid inverter brands pre-2021. A product recall stunted continued traction, and a new generation of LG batteries is available: LG Chem RESU Prime. DC coupled with nominated inverters, Useable 9.6 kWh, Maximum power 7 kW, Warranty 10 years, Cost per kWh (estimated) $1196 + compatible inverter.
LG RESU10 Prime datasheet
SAJ Electric
A second generation of SAJ Electric solar batteries will emerge in 2024, and consumer traction due to an accessible hybrid inverter price-point. Coupled with an appealing software overhaul enhancing user experience, SAJ Electric is refining in the right direction with good Australian support. An attractive price point assured, Cost per kWh will identify relevance to the market.
SMA
SMA is widely anticipated to release a new solar battery option for its hybrid-ready inverter solution, destined for Australian shores in 2024. With no official announcement, an SMA high-voltage DC-coupled battery is only speculation. Although assessing the directions of competing manufacturers, and SMA’s impending hybrid inverter technology, one can assume an SMA battery is more likely than less likely.
Sofar
A new-to-market solar battery range, the Sofar solar batteries Perth customers will consider in 2023 remain a watch item. New products will have teething issues in new regions. Sofar is marketing strongly within Australia, three HV battery options are available: PowerAll (AC coupled), BTS E5 (DC coupled) and GTX 3000 (DC coupled).
Points of caution when buying batteries
Assess a solar battery’s true cost by discerning Cost per kWh. Cost ÷ Useable kW will assist in gauging market relevance of a battery cost. Mainstream solar batteries Perth customers can expect to pay for a range between $800 to $1500 per kWh installed for a base solution. If installing advanced features such as blackout protection or associated upgrades, this cost will be higher.
A battery combined with solar will not always eliminate your bill. A battery’s ability to assist bill reduction is limited by how much stored power it can accommodate (kWh). The amount of power a battery can deliver at any one time is determined as a kW value.
Example:
a) a 5 kWh battery delivering 1 kW continuously would last for 5 hours.
b) a 5 kWh battery delivering 5 kW continuously would last for 1 hour.
For example, b) 1 hour of extensive battery use barely covers dinner time. Most homes require a solar battery of 10 kWh or greater to successfully complement bill reduction through the evening. If you are already rewarded with solar on your roof, try adding an energy consumption monitor to understand battery sizing requirements accurately.
Determining value
Consider additional features beyond energy load shaving to add improved value on a solar battery investment such as blackout protection, or smart tariff utilisation.
Contact sales support ›
