Got Solar? You Need a Battery Energy Storage System

For businesses investing in solar energy, managing electricity efficiently is just as important as generating it. Without a battery energy storage system, excess solar power is either wasted or sold back to the grid at a lower rate – only to be repurchased at a higher cost when energy demand increases. This creates an unnecessary dependency on grid electricity, which can be costly for businesses.

By integrating commercial battery storage, SMEs can maximise self-consumption, reduce energy costs, and gain greater energy independence. Whether it’s powering operations outside daylight hours, protecting against grid fluctuations, or supporting sustainability goals, a battery energy storage system is a strategic investment for businesses looking to control their energy use.

At ESS Group, we’re proud to be a Tesla Powerwall Approved Installer offering a best-in-class battery solution known for reliability, seamless backup power, and smart energy optimisation.

How Does a Battery Energy Storage System Work for Businesses?

A battery energy storage system stores surplus electricity generated by commercial solar panels during the day. Instead of feeding excess power back to the grid at a low rate, businesses can store and use this energy during peak hours, when grid electricity is most expensive.

For businesses with variable energy demands, a battery system enables:

• Energy cost savings by reducing reliance on high-priced electricity during peak times.
• Increased solar self-consumption, allowing businesses to use more of their own renewable energy.
• Backup power for critical operations, minimising the impact of outages or fluctuations in grid supply.

Battery energy store system is ideal for homes and small businesses looking to reduce bills, optimise solar usage, and future-proof their energy setup.

Choosing the Right Battery Storage Capacity for Your Business

Selecting the right battery capacity depends on your business size, energy consumption, and operational needs.

Small Businesses and Retail Stores (5-20 kWh)

• Ideal for offices, cafes, small retailers, and service-based businesses.
• Helps reduce daytime electricity demand, ensuring solar energy is used efficiently.
• Suitable for businesses that primarily operate during daylight hours but want to store some energy for later use.

Mid-Sized Businesses and Warehouses (20-100 kWh)

• Designed for businesses with higher energy demand, such as restaurants, manufacturing sites, and large retail stores.
• Supports evening or overnight energy use, especially for businesses that require refrigeration, lighting, or 24/7 operations.
• Enables load shifting, allowing businesses to avoid drawing power from the grid during peak pricing periods.

EV Charging and Fleet Management (50-250 kWh and above)

• Suitable for businesses with electric vehicle fleets or those installing commercial EV charging stations.
• Allows businesses to charge vehicles using stored solar energy, avoiding grid-based electricity costs.
• Supports sustainability goals by ensuring fleet operations are powered by renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.

ESS Group offers tailored commercial battery storage solutions for SMEs, helping businesses choose the right system based on energy consumption patterns and operational needs.

Key Benefits of Commercial Battery Storage for SMEs

1. Reduce Peak-Time Energy Costs

Energy costs fluctuate throughout the day, with businesses often paying more during peak hours. With a battery storage system, businesses can store cheaper solar energy and use it when grid electricity prices rise.

For example, an SME that operates from 8 AM to 6 PM can store excess solar energy in the afternoon and use it in the evening when grid prices increase—significantly reducing energy costs.

2. Backup Power and Business Continuity

Unexpected power outages can disrupt operations and lead to lost revenue. A battery energy storage system provides backup power for essential business functions, ensuring that critical operations continue even during grid failures.

Industries such as restaurants, hospitality, and healthcare benefit from backup storage to prevent disruptions in refrigeration, lighting, and essential equipment.

3. Powering EV Charging for Business Fleets

Businesses investing in EV charging stations can use battery storage to power fleet charging with stored solar energy, reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity. This is particularly beneficial for:

• Delivery services and logistics companies using electric vans.
• Retailers and hospitality businesses offering EV charging to customers.
• Office buildings looking to provide charging points for employees.

By combining solar panels, battery storage, and EV charging infrastructure, SMEs can create a cost-effective, sustainable energy solution.

4. Reduce Carbon Footprint and Enhance Green Credentials

Sustainability is no longer optional for businesses. Customers, investors, and regulators expect companies to reduce their carbon footprint. By using a battery energy storage system, businesses can:

• Rely more on renewable energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• Improve corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance.
• Gain an advantage in sustainability-focused markets.

Many businesses also choose to highlight their renewable energy efforts in marketing and branding, strengthening their reputation among environmentally conscious consumers.

Commercial Battery Storage: Financial Considerations

While there is currently no nationwide grant for battery storage alone, businesses can still benefit from:

• 0% VAT on energy storage when installed alongside solar panels (until 2027).
• Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) tax relief for commercial battery installations.
• Potential access to regional grants or green business incentives.

Investing in battery storage is a strategic move to protect against rising electricity prices and future-proof business energy consumption. Battery storage projects are also among the quickest to install. At ESS, most systems can be up and running in a day keeping disruption minimal and making it one of the most efficient energy upgrades available.

Why ESS Group is the Trusted Partner for Commercial Battery Storage

ESS Group specialises in tailored energy solutions for SMEs looking to make battery storage a key part of their solar investment. By working with leading battery manufacturers, they ensure that businesses receive the most efficient, cost-effective solutions for their needs.

With expert consultation, professional installation, and ongoing support, ESS Group helps businesses:

• Optimise their solar energy usage with smart battery storage.
• Choose the right battery system size for long-term energy savings.
• Integrate EV charging with energy storage for a complete sustainable energy solution.

If your business is looking to take control of its energy costs and maximise the benefits of solar power, contact ESS Group today to explore the best battery storage options for your operations.

Final Thoughts

For SMEs investing in solar energy, battery storage is the missing piece that ensures maximum savings, resilience, and sustainability. Whether it’s reducing peak-time energy costs, providing backup power, or supporting EV charging, a battery energy storage system helps businesses achieve greater energy independence.

Ready to make your solar work harder for you?

ESS Group offers fast, professional Tesla Powerwall installation giving you smart control, backup protection, and lower energy bills. Book your consultation today.