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Tips for buying a home battery

Before buying a battery energy storage system

Before purchasing a battery system, look into other energy efficiency upgrades. This could include:

  • energy efficient appliances
  • upgrading home insulation
  • replacing light bulbs with LEDs
  • using less hot water, washing clothes in cold water.

These improvements will help reduce energy usage and household power costs.

Get a home energy assessment through the Residential Efficiency Scorecard Program. An accredited assessor can recommend how to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Tips for purchasing a home battery energy storage system

Tips to start you on your journey of purchasing a battery system include:

  • Make a list of potential battery retailers and/or installers and check if they’re qualified and accredited.
  • Get at least 2 or 3 quotes from accredited retailers and/or installers.
  • Review the quotes and check they meet your needs.
  • Check if you’re eligible for any rebates offered by the Queensland Government or the Australian Government.
  • Arrange for your installer to connect your battery system to the grid.

Choosing a battery retailer or installer

Before purchasing a home battery energy storage system, seek at least 2 to 3 quotes for the system size that meets your needs. Compare the prices, models and warranties.

A reputable retailer will provide you with a tailored cost and benefits analysis. This will show you the payback period for your home battery system and will highlight any potential cost savings.

Although quality systems generally cost more, they are also likely to offer better performance over a longer lifespan. Choosing cheaper options can result in a system that doesn’t meet your needs. Work with a qualified retailer and/or installer to explore the best and safest option for you.

It’s best not to feel rushed into buying a battery energy storage system from salespeople who ‘cold call’ you or sell door-to-door. Take time to research and find an appropriate battery energy storage system retailer and/or installer.

Tips for finding reputable battery retailers and installers:

Warranties

A warranty is only as good as the installer that provides it. To give you the best chance of a safe warranty, look for installers and retailers with long histories and an established name.

Installation warranty is the responsibility of your retailer or Australian supplier. Part warranties are normally the responsibility of the manufacturer.

Under Australian Consumer Law, the importer of the parts has primary responsibility for product warranties.

Location and position

Safety regulations apply to the positioning of your battery system. Batteries need to be:

  • insulated
  • well-ventilated
  • away from direct sun
  • inaccessible to children
  • vermin-proof
  • display appropriate safety signs and shutdown procedures.

Your battery’s location and position must be determined by a qualified battery energy storage system designer.

An ideal location for a battery is generally the garage. A battery in a garage may need additional protection like a bollard to protect it from cars.

Avoid locating batteries in uninsulated, unshaded, metal sheds.

Learn more about battery storage equipment electrical safety requirements.

Insurance

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery energy storage systems are expensive to replace. It is important to consider including your solar PV and battery systems in your home insurance.

Check your policy for any insurance clauses and requirements for battery system related issues before you commit to your installation.

Electricity distributor approval

Before installing an on-grid battery energy storage system, you or your installer will need approval from your electricity distributor to connect your system to the grid.

Generally, your battery installer will manage this process.

If you’re retrofitting a battery to an existing solar PV system, the connection agreement will need to be amended.

More information

Last updated:
11 February 2024
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