Battery storage can be added to your existing Solar PV installations in two ways.
 

1. Replace your existing (DC Coupled) Inverter with a Hybrid Inverter:

A Hybrid inverter is an intelligent inverter that enables the storage of excess solar energy in a battery system for self-use. Hybrid inverters function like a common grid-tie solar inverter but can generally operate in one of several different modes depending on the application, this includes battery backup mode which provides a limited level of backup power in the event of a blackout. Most hybrid inverters can also operate without a battery and function just like a grid-tie solar inverter by exporting excess solar energy to the utility grid.

Having all the key features for solar and battery storage in one simple plug-and-play inverter means hybrid inverters are generally much lower cost and easier to install compared to more complex battery storage systems which often require multiple inverters. However, they do have several limitations and are generally not recommended to be used for off-grid solar systems.

 

2. AC coupled inverter.

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AC coupled inverters allow a retrospective installation to an existing DC coupled solar installation. This may include an additional inverter to manage the battery storage.  

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