Installation guide

Installing a home battery is a technical process that must be carried out by a qualified electrician, ideally one who is MCS-certified. The installation typically takes between half a day and a full day, depending on the complexity of your current electrical setup.

1. Choosing a location

The location of your battery affects its performance, safety, and lifespan.

  • Garages and Utility Rooms: These are the most common locations. They provide a stable environment and are usually close to the main consumer unit (fuse box).
  • Lofts: Some smaller, modular batteries can be installed in lofts, but you must ensure the floor can support the weight (a 5kWh battery can weigh 50-80kg). Ventilation and temperature are also harder to control in a loft.
  • Outdoor: Many modern batteries (like the Tesla Powerwall) are IP-rated for outdoor installation. However, they should be shielded from direct sunlight and extreme wind.
  • Clearance: Most batteries require 150mm to 300mm of clearance around them to allow for heat dissipation.

2. AC-Coupled vs DC-Coupled

This is a critical technical choice for your installation.

DC-Coupled (Best for new solar)

The battery is connected directly to your solar panels through a Hybrid Inverter.

  • Efficiency: More efficient because electricity stays as DC from the panels into the battery.
  • Cost: Usually cheaper if you are installing solar and battery at the same time.

AC-Coupled (Best for retrofitting)

The battery has its own separate inverter and is connected to your home’s AC wiring.

  • Flexibility: Can be added to any existing solar installation without changing the solar inverter.
  • Grid Charging: Excellent for charging from the grid at night on smart tariffs.

3. The Installation Process

  1. Site Survey: The installer checks your consumer unit, identifies the best location, and checks your Wi-Fi signal.
  2. Mounting: The battery is fixed to a wall or placed on a solid floor.
  3. Wiring: The installer connects the battery to your inverter and consumer unit. They will also install a “current transformer” (CT) clamp to monitor the power flow.
  4. Commissioning: The system is powered up, and the software is configured. The installer will help you set up the monitoring app on your phone.
  5. DNO Notification: Your installer must notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) that a battery has been connected to the grid. This is usually done via a G98 or G99 application.

Important: Ensure your installer provides you with a commissioning certificate and explains how to manually shut down the system in an emergency.