Case Study:
How This Adelaide Family Gained Energy Independence By Adding a Battery to their Existing Solar System
By Solar Energy Adelaide | 22 February 2025
We have self sufficiency of 98.71% since the battery was installed. The first invoice from the power company was negative, they owe us!
So very happy with the battery!
The Journey to Solar Savings
When this Adelaide family first approached us in August 2022, they were facing power bills of $2,400 per year. With electricity prices rising sharply, they wanted a cost-effective way to reduce their bills while also making a positive environmental impact.
After going through a few options tailored to suit their needs, Gerard and his family opted for a 7.2kW SolarEdge system, which provided them with significant savings. Within the first year, their power bills dropped to $800 per year—a reduction of 2/3rds.
Reassessing Energy Needs: Is a Solar Battery Worth It?
In December 2024, Gerard had noticed a few key changes:
- Their household’s daily electricity usage had increased with more time being spent at home.
- Power prices had continued to rise.
- Their feed-in tariff had dropped, meaning they were earning less from exporting excess solar power.
Their annual power bill had climbed back up to $1,400, and they wanted a solution that would allow them to use more of their own solar energy rather than buying electricity from the grid.
They reached out to us again to discuss battery storage and whether it would be a worthwhile investment.
Installing a Smart, Cost-Effective Battery Solution
After reviewing their energy consumption and goals, we recommended the Alpha ESS 13.3kW battery. This system would allow them to:
- Store excess solar energy for night-time and cloudy days.
- Reduce reliance on the grid.
- Take control of their power usage without worrying about rising costs.
Achieving Energy Independence
Since installing the battery, their home is now 98.71% self-sufficient. Not only have they eliminated power bills, but thanks to the credit they receive from their remaining feed-in tariff, their energy costs are now negative—meaning their electricity retailer pays them!
Key Results at a Glance
Before Solar (2022) | With Solar (2023) | With Solar & Battery (2025) |
$2,400 per year | $800 per year | Negative power costs |
0% self-sufficient | 65-70% self-sufficient | 98.71% self-sufficient |
Thinking About Solar + Battery for Your Adelaide Home?
Gerard and his family’s journey is a great example of how solar and battery storage can work together to provide long-term savings and energy independence. Whether you’re just starting with solar or considering a battery upgrade, we’re here to help.
Local, Trusted, and Here to Help – Adelaide’s Solar Experts
As a local business here in Adelaide, South Australia, we have built our reputation on family values of trust, transparency and education.
We place our focus on you, the customer to ensure you receive a solar or battery installation of the highest quality and one that will serve you well into the future.
Knowledge is power. To make an informed decision about exactly how solar can benefit you, we offer free, in-person solar consultations. This allows us to assess your energy needs and present you with customised solar and battery solutions tailored to your current and future energy needs.
Our SERVICES
Solar power has become a staple for South Aussie homes and businesses.
With rising electricity costs, solar panel installation offers long term savings and financial security with minimal maintenance and solar rebates available.
Ready to gain energy independence? Dreaming of a day with a $0 power bill?
With a solar battery for your home or business, you can store your excess energy and use it when you need it most.
Solar battery storage has become more affordable in recent years and can even be added to most existing solar systems.
Worried your solar system is underperforming?
If your solar system is not covering between 60-90% of your energy needs there is likely a problem that needs attention.
Our skilled technicians handle all aspects of solar system servicing, including solar panel repairs, solar inverter repairs and solar warranty assistance.