With rising electricity prices and feed-in tariffs dropping, more homeowners on the Central Coast are looking for ways to cut their power bills. A solar battery storage system helps you store excess solar power and use it when electricity rates are highest—reducing your reliance on grid electricity and keeping your home powered during blackouts. But how much can you actually save with a solar battery?
This guide breaks down the potential electricity bill savings, how a solar battery backup system works, and why now is the perfect time to invest in solar energy storage.
Why Electricity Prices Are Rising on the Central Coast
Electricity prices continue to increase across NSW, making it more expensive for households to rely on the grid. The main reasons for these price hikes include:
- Higher demand – Energy use is increasing, especially during extreme weather.
- Grid supply issues – Ageing infrastructure and renewable energy transitions create supply challenges.
- Lower solar feed-in tariffs – The amount you get for sending excess solar power to the grid has dropped significantly.
Instead of selling your solar energy for a low return, a solar battery storage system allows you to store and use your own power, helping you avoid expensive grid electricity rates.
How a Solar Battery Helps You Save
A solar battery backup system reduces your reliance on the grid by storing excess solar energy during the day and making it available when you need it most. Here’s how it works:
- Use Solar Power at Night – Instead of buying power from the grid after sunset, you can use stored solar energy, reducing your bills.
- Avoid Peak-Time Electricity Prices – Energy rates are highest during the evening when demand surges. With a solar battery storage system, you can use stored power instead of paying peak rates.
- Stay Powered During Blackouts – A solar battery backup system ensures you can keep essential appliances like lights, fridges, and WiFi running even when the grid goes down.
- Maximise Your Solar Investment – Instead of sending excess solar power to the grid for a low return, you can store and use it yourself, increasing your overall savings.
How Much Can You Save with a Solar Battery?
The actual savings from a solar battery depend on your energy usage, battery size, and current electricity rates. Here’s a rough estimate of how much different households on the Central Coast can save per year:
| Household Size | Average Solar Battery Size | Estimated Annual Savings* |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1–2 people) | 5–7 kWh | $800 – $1,200 |
| Medium (3–4 people) | 10 kWh | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Large (5+ people) | 13–15 kWh | $1,800 – $2,500 |
*Estimates based on average electricity rates and solar usage in NSW. Actual savings depend on your energy consumption and system efficiency.
Government Incentives & VPP Savings
Beyond bill savings, solar battery owners can take advantage of government rebates and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs, where you can sell excess stored power back to the grid for additional savings.
Some available programs include:
- NSW Government Battery Rebates – Reduces the upfront cost of installing a solar battery storage system.
- Ausgrid’s VPP Trial – Get paid for sending stored energy back to the grid during peak demand times.
- AGL & EnergyAustralia VPPs – Earn bill credits when your solar battery supports the network.
Best Solar Batteries for Maximum Savings
At Coastal Solar Solutions, we install trusted solar battery brands designed for Australian conditions, including:
- Tesla Powerwall 3 – High capacity, seamless blackout protection, and smart energy management.
- Sungrow Batteries – Affordable, reliable, and designed for long-term solar energy storage.
- Enphase IQ Battery – Modular, high-efficiency solar battery with industry-leading safety features.
Is a Solar Battery Worth It for Your Home?
If you want to lower electricity bills, stay powered during blackouts, and reduce reliance on grid electricity, a solar battery storage system is a great investment.
The right solar battery can save you thousands over its lifetime while giving you greater control over your energy.
Talk to Coastal Solar Solutions today to find the best solar battery backup system for your Central Coast home and start saving on your electricity bills.