Solar Batteries: Are They Worth the Cost?

Over 50% of homes that installed solar tech included solar battery storage in April 2024, compared with just over 20% as of October 2023. This rapid growth rate isn’t showing signs of slowing anytime soon — and with good reason. Solar batteries are maximizing thousands of homeowners’ investment in solar, offering them a backup power source that won’t further strain the environment. 

 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about solar batteries, their costs, and their points of benefit and consideration. 

In this article: 

• Cost of popular solar battery brands in 2024 
• Factors influencing solar battery costs 
• How solar batteries work 
• Types of solar batteries 
• Pros and cons of solar batteries 
• Are solar batteries worth it? 
• Frequently asked questions

Cost of Popular Solar Battery Brands in 2025

Understanding solar battery costs is often the first step many take when considering swapping their backup power source. The problem? Finding the most accurate, up-to-date information regarding cost and availability is often difficult.  That’s why we’ve compiled the most accurate information for the industry’s leading brands at the time of this publication. 

 

Product Name	Average Cost Range
Tesla Powerwall Batteries	$13,000 – $20,000+
LG Chem RESU 16H Prime	$11,000 – $12,000+
Sonnen EcoLinx	$25,000 – $30,000+
Enphase Ensemble	$22,000 – $65,000+

Factors Influencing Solar Battery Costs 

The upfront cost of solar batteries can feel a bit shocking if you’re not aware of the full spectrum of benefits and features they have to offer. Here’s a quick breakdown of the factors that influence your solar battery cost, giving you the information you need to make the best decision for your home. 

Battery Features

As with most home products, the features included in your solar systems impact the overall cost of the product. Different features to evaluate include: 

 

• Battery type: Batteries typically fall into three chemistry categories: lithium-ion, lead-acid, and flow battery. Each chemistry type has its pros and cons. Lithium-ion batteries, for example,  can be more expensive than the others — but they typically last longer. 

• Technology used: If a battery uses advanced technologies (like smart battery management systems), this may increase the cost. However, the return on investment may be worth it to some, as the battery will last longer. 

• Battery capacity: Higher capacity batteries cost more, requiring more resources to manufacture. However, those looking to maximize their energy storage may be willing to pay this upfront cost. 

• Battery size: Your solar power system’s size impacts the unit’s cost and mounting tech needed. More compact designs are typically more expensive, as they require advanced technology and craftsmanship to produce. 

• Battery inverter type: Batteries have two inverter types: AC- and DC-coupled inverters. AC-coupled systems are typically more expensive than DC-coupled systems. However, their efficiency can make up for their cost in some cases. 

Brand and Manufacturer Differences 

Different brands and manufacturers have different manufacturing processes. Depending on how they are logistically executed and the global availability of materials, these can drive the cost up and down. 

 

Additional brand and manufacturing differences that affect battery prices include individual company margins and rolling sales that companies might offer to remain competitive. 

Number of Solar Batteries Installed 

The number of batteries required for a successful solar battery install is typically determined by the battery’s storage capacity and the household energy needs and preferences. For example, a home with extra amenities that require power (such as a pool pump or an electric vehicle charger) may require extra capacity than a small, single-bedroom apartment.  

 

Once the number of batteries needed is determined, the cost can be as well — and it’s typically directly proportional to the amount of batteries used to cover a specific property. 

Geographical Location 

The scarcity of products and high demand for resources always affect end costs — and the solar industry is no exception to this rule. If you live in an area where skilled solar technicians are in short demand or in a rural area that requires extra shipping to send items to, you can expect this to impact your bottom line cost. 

Inverter

Your inverter is responsible for converting direct current (DC) from your solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity for your home or space. There are many different types, qualities, and capacities when it comes to converters — and all of these factors affect the end price of your inverter (and your solar battery unit). 

 

Typically, string inverters are cheaper than hybrid inverters (and are generally a good choice). However, they may require additional accessories to complete the installation, which can increase the total price of your installation. 

Your Current System 

Whether you’ve installed a solar system recently or a while ago, your current system plays a role in your solar battery cost today. For example, if your home’s solar panel system is outdated or faulty, you may need a replacement in addition to battery costs to complete the installation process successfully. 

Incentives and Rebates 

There can be a lot of hidden costs in the solar battery process. The good news? There can be plenty of ways to save as well. Many homeowners on the market today leverage battery incentives and rebates to make their solar battery installation process more affordable. If you’re unsure where to start, research available federal tax credit programs, state-level incentives, and any programs available through your local utility companies. You may also want to investigate available subsidies if there are any that you’d qualify for.  

How Solar Batteries Work 

Once installed, a solar battery works round the clock to store excess energy from solar panels for situations when sunlight may be less available — such as during overcast days or the evening hours. 

 

Ready for a little solar 101? Here’s the five-step process your battery takes to store this extra energy: 

• Energy is gathered: Before any energy can be siphoned or stored, it must first be gathered from the solar panels located elsewhere on your house. 

• Energy transforms: Once gathered through the panel, the DC current flows to an inverter — transforming into AC electricity that powers your home and space. 

• Energy is allocated: After this transformation takes place, anything that’s unused by your appliances or processes will be stored, charging your batteries. 

• Energy is cycled: Once the sun goes down, these batteries will power your appliances using excess solar energy instead of the direct flow from your panels, like you’d use in the daytime. 

Types of Solar Batteries 

Considering investing in off-grid solar batteries? You’re in good company. Here are the many types of solar batteries to continue as you move toward total energy independence: 

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most popular battery types for energy storage systems. While they come at a higher-than-average cost, they are highly sustainable for residential use — cycling 4,000+ times over their lifespan. This translates to over 10 years of use for the average homeowner, even with a daily charging cycle. Most sources estimate that lithium-ion-based solar batteries cost between $10,000-$15,000+ — with more expensive models offering advanced features and technologies for advanced support. 

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries, or “deep cycle batteries,” are a fantastic choice if sustainability and durability are a priority for your home. They don’t produce instantaneous power as quickly as other models, allowing for even power distribution as household needs draw it. Unfortunately, however, many types of lead-acid batteries require testing and watering for optimal function. If you choose a lead-acid battery for your solar storage, consider an absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery type — which costs about $100-$650+.

Saltwater Batteries 

These battery types are a favorite green energy solution, as they use raw natural materials to convert energy rather than traditional heavy-duty chemicals. Many appreciate their cost-effectiveness and simple manufacturing process, especially if they live in a space that doesn’t experience high energy demands and surges. Unfortunately, saltwater batteries have density and energy output limitations — unlike their lithium- and lead-based counterparts. 

 

Before investing about $2,000-$11,000+ into a saltwater system, we recommend you consider your household’s energy needs and the time you have to spend maintaining your saltwater battery (if you don’t opt for an AGM type). 

Flow Batteries 

Flow batteries are universally known as the “longest-lasting” batteries ever made, as they can handle over 20,000 cycles on average. This translates to about 25 years of energy storage support. The downside of using flow batteries as solar batteries is the cost, as the core material, vanadium, is a trade-scarce item that primarily comes from China and Russia’s petroleum and iron refining processes. Many experts estimate that prices can soar to double the cost of a lithium-ion model as a result, possibly costing between $20,000-$30,000+ end-to-end.

Pros and Cons of Solar Batteries 

Before you decide if solar batteries are right for you, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons that come with their installation and use. 

 

Pros of Solar Batteries 

Many homeowners appreciate solar batteries, as they: 

• Provide a backup power source: When it’s overcast or dark outside, you won’t have to worry about accessing your favorite powered appliances. 

• Increase the energy independence and reliability of a home: While the electricity grid is available to those who want to use it, many homeowners prefer energy self-sufficiency. 

• Decrease their carbon footprint: Going green gets easier when you can harness the power of clean energy. 

• Save money on electrical bills: Despite initial installation costs, homeowners can walk away with significant savings from slashed energy bills and installation incentive programs. 

• Allow for smarter power management: Solar batteries help homeowners understand their demand, helping them optimize their use over time.  

• Increase property value: Installing advanced home features like solar panels may increase property value, especially when maintained well. 

 

Cons of Solar Batteries

While there are plenty of pros to solar batteries, there are also cons to consider, such as:  

• High upfront costs: While most solar models offer the potential for savings on electricity bills, the initial cost of a solar system can feel like a large investment.

• Space consumption: Solar batteries take up extra space, which may not be ideal for some homeowners. 

• Slow return on investment (ROI): The decision to invest in solar batteries should come down to a homeowner’s ability to invest and wait for a return. Solar investments offer ROI over time in the form of disbursements from federal solar tax credit programs and savings off of your bills. However, as mentioned above, they can be costly. It’s ultimately up to the homeowner to determine if that liquid commitment and ROI time is feasible to take on when they make the investment.

Considering an upgrade? 

Solar batteries are a convenient method of power storage, as they’re sustainable, resilient, and scalable to your budget. The type and capacity of solar battery you need is dependent on the energy patterns and expectations of the house. Speaking with a solar specialist is the first step to take if you’re considering making an upgrade. Connect with the team at Heliose to speak with a local installer today.

Frequently asked questions 

How long do solar batteries last?

Solar batteries can last between 10 to 15 years, on average. However, the duration of time they last typically comes down to the battery’s composition and the house’s use patterns. 

 

What is the average cost of a solar battery?

Most batteries can range anywhere between $10,000-$22,000+, falling either below, in, or past this range. Ultimately, solar battery costs come down to battery composition, size, output, technology, and inverter type — and may further vary depending on the availability of core materials at any given time.

Can you install a solar battery without solar panels? 

Yes, you can install a solar battery without solar panels. This is known as a standalone battery storage system. Homeowners who choose not to install solar panels on their home often treat them as a “backup” independent power supply.

How long can a solar battery run my appliances? 

The answer to this question depends on two key areas: how many appliances are drawing power at a given time (such as your air conditioner or your hair dryer) and how big your battery is. Consider connecting with a local specialist for an accurate estimation as you leverage solar power for your home.