A new house can still have room for a better energy setup. For this battery storage installation in Penicuik, Midlothian, our customer had moved into a brand-new home with solar panels already fitted. However, the existing solar provision was not enough for the way they wanted to run the property.
We installed a 6kW Duracell inverter alongside a 16kWh battery, giving the household a way to charge overnight and use that stored electricity later. It is a practical example of how home battery storage can complement a newer property with an existing solar installation.
The Penicuik installation at a glance
Location: Penicuik, Midlothian
Property: New-build home with existing solar PV
Inverter: 6kW Duracell
Battery storage: 16kWh
Charging approach: Overnight charging for use around the home
Making the existing solar setup work harder
Moving into a home with solar panels is a useful starting point, but the next question is how that system fits your daily routine. How much electricity do you use after sunset? Is the existing installation meeting your expectations? Would storage be a better next step than simply adding more panels?
For this customer, we added the inverter and battery to provide more flexibility. If you are in a similar position, our home battery storage service is a good place to start. We can also review your solar PV options if you are considering a larger array.
How overnight battery charging helps
With a suitable electricity tariff, a battery can charge during lower-cost overnight hours. The stored energy is then available later, reducing the amount of electricity bought at more expensive times. Where the system is configured to capture surplus solar generation, that can also be stored for later use.
The benefit comes from matching the battery, tariff and charging schedule to the household. The Energy Saving Trust’s battery storage guide explains how storage can work with solar panels, a time-of-use tariff, or both.
What does the reported 75% saving mean?
Our original update on this Penicuik project reported that the customer was running their home for around 75% less through overnight charging. This is a project-specific reported result, rather than a guaranteed annual bill saving for every home.
Your own saving will depend on the difference between your overnight and daytime rates, how much electricity you use, charging losses and how much demand the battery can cover. Standing charges still apply, and installation costs need to be considered when looking at the overall return. We assess those details before recommending a system for another property.
Questions about adding battery storage
Can I add a battery to a new-build home with solar panels?
Often, yes. The existing inverter, solar equipment and electrical installation need to be checked so the proposed battery system can be designed around them. This Penicuik project shows one way to build on the equipment already at a property.
Does a 16kWh battery mean 16kW of power?
No. Kilowatt-hours (kWh) describe stored energy; kilowatts (kW) describe power. This project pairs 16kWh of battery capacity with a 6kW inverter. Actual usable energy and output depend on the equipment limits and system settings.
Will I need the same size battery?
Not necessarily. The right size depends on your electricity use, existing solar generation and tariff. A review of your bills and consumption pattern helps us recommend a suitable system. You can also explore our solar PV and battery servicing for ongoing care.
Considering battery storage in Penicuik or Midlothian?
Whether you have just moved into a new home or want to improve an existing solar setup, Renew-Able Solutions can talk you through the options. We work with homeowners in Penicuik, across Midlothian, Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Request your free battery storage quote and tell us your postcode, approximate electricity usage and any solar or battery equipment you already have. Our team will be in touch to discuss what could work for your home.
