Adding a battery to existing solar panels in Kent

Checking your existing system first

An installer will want to know the size and age of your panels, the make of your inverter and whether it's still working well. There are two main approaches. An AC-coupled battery has its own inverter and connects alongside your existing system, which usually leaves the panels untouched. Alternatively, an older inverter can be swapped for a hybrid one that handles both panels and battery. Have your original paperwork, MCS certificate and any Feed-in Tariff or export details to hand, as these help installers quote accurately and keep your records straight.

If you're on the Feed-in Tariff

The Feed-in Tariff closed to new applicants in 2019, but many Kent homes still receive payments under it. If yours does, tell your Feed-in Tariff supplier before adding a battery, and ask what they need from you. A battery can affect how export is measured, particularly if your export is estimated rather than metered, and some suppliers may want an export meter fitted. Ask your installer how the battery will be set up so it charges only from your panels, if that's what your supplier requires, and keep a copy of everything you send.

VAT and grid notification for a retrofit

HMRC's guidance says the zero rate of VAT covers retrofitting a battery to an existing solar system in a home, as well as new installations, until 31 March 2027. A battery is treated as generating equipment by the grid, so your installer needs to notify or apply to UK Power Networks. Smaller systems are usually notified within a set period after commissioning, while systems that can export above the single-phase limit need approval before connection, which takes longer. Ask each installer which applies to your quote.

Jobs we can find a solar and battery installer for

AC-coupled batteries alongside existing inverters
Hybrid inverter upgrades
Checks on panel and inverter condition
Feed-in Tariff and export paperwork
UK Power Networks notifications
Monitoring and tariff set-up

Get a quote for adding a battery to existing solar panels

Available across Kent

Dartford Gravesend Medway Maidstone Sevenoaks Tonbridge & Tunbridge Wells Ashford Canterbury Thanet Folkestone & Hythe Dover & Deal Swale

Other services

Solar panel installation · Solar panels with battery storage · EV charger installation · Commercial, farm and outbuilding solar · Solar repairs, inverter replacement and maintenance

Read before you get quotes

Solar panel and battery costs in Kent: what drives the price Do you need a home battery? Solar storage explained for Kent homes

Adding a battery to existing solar panels: common questions

Can I add a battery to old solar panels?

Often, yes. Many older systems can take an AC-coupled battery without changing the panels. An installer will check the inverter and wiring first, and may suggest a hybrid inverter if the old one is near the end of its life.

Does adding a battery affect my Feed-in Tariff?

It can. Tell your Feed-in Tariff supplier before you add a battery and ask what they require. Some may ask for an export meter, especially if your export is currently estimated.

Is VAT charged on a battery added later?

HMRC's guidance says retrofitting a battery to solar panels in a home is covered by the zero rate of VAT until 31 March 2027. Check your quote shows this.