Adding a battery to your solar setup is one of the best ways to get more out of your system. It stores unused solar energy during the day so you can use it at night or during power outages.
This means greater energy independence and better protection during blackouts for homes in Central West NSW. But with different battery brands, sizes and features on offer, it’s not always easy to know what’s right for your home.
Getting the Right System
Choosing a solar battery isn’t just about specs in a brochure. Whether you’re starting fresh, retrofitting to existing solar, or going off-grid, proper planning is essential.
Some considerations include:
- How much power do you use in the evenings?
- Do you want backup protection?
Is your solar system generating enough excess energy? - Will your energy needs grow (for example, EV charging or more people at home)?
Budget plays a key role, too. Larger batteries with more backup usually cost more, while smaller setups cost less but cover fewer of your needs. Many brands offer modular systems, allowing you to start small and add capacity later as your budget and energy demands grow.
Battery setups can also require extra hardware and compatibility checks with inverters and switchboards. That’s why it’s wise to consult professionals familiar with local conditions, brands, and regulations.
What Battery Size Do You Really Need?
Solar battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and the right size depends on how much electricity you typically use in the evening (not across the whole day).
A general rule of thumb is:
- Small households (1–2 people): 5–10 kWh
- Medium (3 people): 10–15 kWh
- Larger homes (4+): 15+ kWh
In Central West NSW, many homes fall into the 18–25 kWh/day usage range. If your goal is to use stored solar in the evening and avoid peak power prices, a battery around 10–15 kWh is usually a solid fit.
However, if you want blackout protection or you’re heading toward off-grid living, you’ll likely need a larger or modular battery, plus additional gear like an isolation switch or backup generator.
Comparing Battery Brands
When comparing brands, look at things like storage capacity, battery chemistry, warranty, expandability, and how well they handle backup power.
Tesla Powerwall
The Tesla Powerwall 3 delivers 13.5 kWh of usable storage with 10 kW continuous power output. It’s an all-in-one unit with a built-in inverter and seamless blackout protection. Tesla’s warranty covers 10 years and guarantees strong capacity retention. It’s ideal for those who want a sleek, high-performance system and don’t mind paying a bit more for it.
RedEarth
RedEarth is locally made and built for Australian conditions. The Troppo series uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP), known for safety and stability. Great for homes on-grid or off, it’s scalable and well supported locally. Their 10-year warranty and strong customer service make them a reliable option, especially in rural or regional areas.
Fronius
Fronius batteries also use LFP chemistry and are modular, allowing expansion up to 63 kWh. Known primarily for their inverters, Fronius now offers complete systems with modern designs and strong safety credentials. They’re a good fit if you already have Fronius equipment or want a neat, integrated setup.
Sungrow
Sungrow’s LFP-based battery systems come in modular towers, allowing you to increase capacity as your needs grow. Their pricing is competitive, and they’ve gained a strong reputation in Australia for both performance and reliability. A great option if you want flexibility without stretching the budget.
Need Help Choosing?
Choosing the right battery is a long-term decision. If you’re in Central West NSW and want help tailoring a system to your home, Press Power offers expert guidance, local knowledge and practical solutions.
We can help you compare battery brands, get the sizing right, and ensure your system is set up for long-term performance and peace of mind.
Ready to take the next step in your solar journey? Talk to Press Power about finding the right solar battery for your home.
