As more Australian businesses invest in solar energy, the conversation is shifting from simply installing solar panels to maximising the value of that energy—especially with the addition of battery storage. For businesses running a 50kW solar system, battery integration is a logical next step. But is it worth the investment? Hitech Solar.com.au
In this article, we’ll break down the benefits, challenges, and key considerations for adding battery storage to a 50kW commercial solar system.
Why Pair Battery Storage with Solar?
A 50kW solar system can generate 65,000–80,000 kWh annually, most of which occurs during daylight hours. Without battery storage, excess solar energy is either:
Exported to the grid at a low feed-in tariff, or
Wasted, if grid export is limited or disallowed
With a battery system in place, your business can:
Store excess solar energy for use during the evening or peak demand times
Avoid drawing expensive electricity from the grid
Maintain power during outages (with backup-ready systems)
How Much Battery Capacity Do You Need?
The ideal battery size depends on your load profile. Businesses that operate late into the evening or over weekends will benefit more from storage. For a 50kW system, typical commercial battery sizes range from:
30 kWh to 100 kWh for partial load shifting
100 kWh to 200+ kWh for deeper energy independence or backup
Top Benefits of Adding Batteries to a 50kW System
✅ 1. Maximise Solar Self-Consumption
Batteries allow you to use more of the solar energy you produce—rather than sending it to the grid for a minimal return.
✅ 2. Reduce Peak Demand Charges
Many commercial electricity plans include demand charges, which are based on your highest half-hour usage. Batteries can discharge during these spikes to reduce your peak demand fees.
✅ 3. Energy Security
In industries where downtime is costly, batteries can provide backup power during outages or unstable grid events.
✅ 4. Protection Against Rising Electricity Prices
Batteries help reduce reliance on grid power, shielding your business from price hikes and future energy volatility.
Challenges and Considerations
⚠️ 1. Upfront Cost
Battery systems are still a significant investment. A quality 100 kWh commercial battery solution can cost $60,000–$100,000+, depending on the brand and installation.
⚠️ 2. Payback Period
Without demand charges or high evening usage, the ROI may be slower than a solar-only system. Most commercial batteries have a 7–12 year payback period, compared to 3–5 years for solar.
⚠️ 3. Export Control Regulations
In areas with limited grid export capacity, batteries can act as a workaround, storing excess energy that would otherwise be wasted—but this depends on your DNSP’s requirements.
Are There Incentives for Commercial Battery Storage?
In some states, there are limited incentives for commercial battery storage (like the NSW Empowering Homes or VIC Solar Homes programs), but most are residential-focused.
However, commercial systems under 100kW still qualify for STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) on the solar component, and there may be depreciation benefits or grants for energy resilience or emissions reduction through programs like the ARENA or CEFC.
When Battery Storage Is Worth It
Battery storage makes the most financial and operational sense when your business:
Operates outside daylight hours (e.g., restaurants, manufacturers, aged care)
Faces high demand charges
Experiences frequent blackouts
Wants to improve sustainability credentials for ESG reporting
Popular Battery Options for 50kW Systems
| Battery | Capacity Range | Best For | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Powerpack/Megapack | 50–200+ kWh | Large-scale applications | High scalability, grid services ready |
| Sungrow STS Series | 50–250 kWh | Mid-sized commercial | Affordable, good monitoring |
| Alpha ESS STORION | 30–100 kWh | SME and industrial use | Flexible configuration, backup-ready |
| BYD Battery-Box Pro | 40–100 kWh | Industrial & commercial | High efficiency, modular design |
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
Adding battery storage to a 50kW solar system can be worth it, but only when aligned with your business’s energy profile and financial goals. For many businesses, especially those with late-day usage or demand charges, batteries offer strong long-term value, enhanced energy independence, and environmental impact.
However, if your usage is mostly daytime or your site lacks export limitations or outages, a solar-only system may provide faster ROI—leaving battery storage as a smart future upgrade.