Installing a home battery is one of the smartest steps you can take to make the most of your solar system, reduce your energy bills, and prepare for a future powered by renewables. But with so many home battery storage options on the market, how do you choose the best home battery for solar?
This guide walks you through the key factors to consider - whether you're just starting your solar journey or looking to upgrade your setup.
1. Start by clarifying your goals
Not every household will use their solar battery the same way. Before you start comparing models, ask yourself what you want your battery to do:
- Maximise solar self-consumption
- Reduce electricity bills
- Provide backup power during blackouts (and for how long?)
- Support future electrification - think EVs, electric hot water and cooking
- Unlock earnings by participating in energy markets
Your specific goals will influence the optimal battery size, features, and setup - whether you prioritise backup, value, or flexibility.
2. Understand your energy usage patterns
To size your battery correctly, you’ll need to get a good sense of your household energy habits. That means:
- Analysing your daily and seasonal energy use
- Looking at your solar generation profile
- Identifying peak usage times (e.g. evening vs daytime)
If you already have solar, your electricity bill won’t tell the full story. Use your solar monitoring system instead, or ask your installer for help.
Planning for future changes is also important, whether that’s growing your household, adding an EV, or switching from gas to electricity.
3. Choose the right battery size
Wondering what size solar battery do I need or what size battery do I need for my house? It depends on your energy use and goals.
Smaller batteries (<10 kWh) can usually cover basic evening use, but larger batteries offer more flexibility:
- Powering appliances longer after sunset and into the morning
- Storing more excess solar or cheap grid energy for later
- Enabling participation in energy markets, earning revenue when prices spike
Amber tip: With SmartShift automation, Amber customers with larger batteries can actively earn from market price fluctuations, making their battery a smarter long-term investment.
4. Look at power output (kW)
Battery capacity tells you how much energy can be stored. Power output (kW) tells you how fast it can be delivered.
- Higher output (5kW+) is better for running multiple appliances or charging an EV
- Output also affects your ability to sell energy into the market when prices spike
If you're aiming for backup power or wholesale market participation, make sure your battery's output can keep up with your household’s demands.
5. Decide between AC vs DC coupling
The way your battery connects to your solar system matters:
- DC-coupled batteries: Best for new solar installs. More efficient, and often better at keeping your solar operating during a blackout.
- AC-coupled batteries: Ideal for retrofitting to existing solar systems. More flexible. Some (like Tesla Powerwall) can continue solar generation during outages.
Talk to your installer about the best setup for your current system and goals.
6. Assess blackout protection
Not all batteries provide backup during outages and, among those that do, the level of support can vary:
- Can it operate independently of the grid?
- Can it keep your solar panels running in a blackout?
- Which appliances will be backed up, and for how long?
You’ll pay more for whole-home backup. Consider whether you really need everything running, or if powering the fridge and a fan is enough during an outage.
7. Explore smart automation and control
Modern batteries come with software features to improve performance and savings:
- Automated charging/discharging based on real-time prices
- Remote monitoring and control via mobile apps
- Integration with smart energy platforms like Amber
With Amber’s SmartShift, your battery can automatically respond to real-time energy prices - charging when it’s cheap or free, and discharging when prices spike. This can boost your earnings and reduce your payback period.
8. Check warranties and battery lifespan
Most batteries come with a 10-year warranty, or a guarantee over a number of charge cycles. Look for:
- Capacity retention (e.g. 70-80% of original capacity after 10 years)
- A well-established manufacturer with proven performance
- Local support in Australia
A strong warranty gives you confidence your battery will deliver value for the long term.
9. Consider brand reputation and support
Not all battery brands are created equal. Choose a brand (and installer) known for:
- Reliability and performance
- Australian customer support
- Compatibility with your solar setup
- Integration with automation platforms like Amber
Reading reviews and checking third-party ratings can help you avoid future headaches, and find the best solar battery Australia has to offer.
10. Weigh up cost vs value
Solar battery prices typically range from $8,000-$16,000 installed, depending on size and setup. It’s a big investment - so think long term:
- How much will you save on electricity over 10 years?
- Can you earn additional income from energy market participation?
- Are there government rebates or incentives you can claim?
Amber customers can save $300-$1,300 per Powerwall-sized battery each year, depending on system size and location. Those savings can significantly shorten your battery’s payback period.
11. Check if your battery works with Amber
To get the most out of your battery - from automated energy shifting to responding to real-time electricity prices - you’ll need a setup that’s compatible with Amber.
Click here to see which battery brands are compatible with Amber.
Unlike other VPPs, Amber puts you in control and lets you keep 100% of the value your battery generates.
Bonus tips before you buy
- Think ahead. Will you add an EV or go fully electric soon?
- Check if your battery qualifies for rebates, like Victoria’s PDRS (BESS2) or SA’s REPS. These often require VPP participation, which Amber can support
- Not sure where to start? Try a solar battery size calculator to help estimate your needs.
Unlike traditional energy retailers, Amber customers earn the full value from their battery without hidden margins or vague VPP agreements.
Choosing the right battery
Choosing the best battery for solar panels isn’t just about today. It’s about planning for the future. Whether you're prioritising bill savings, blackout protection, or flexibility, the best home battery Australia has to offer is the one that meets your needs now and grows with you.
For more help on how to choose a solar battery, visit help.amber.com.au.
