The installation process
Once you’ve made the decision to invest in battery storage, it’s time to begin the installation process. As with any other significant investment, it’s important to do your homework.
Make sure you’ve talked to the experts, you’re satisfied that you're dealing with a well-qualified installer, and that you’ve chosen a system that will deliver what you want.
Installing your BESS
The installation process for battery storage is usually straightforward and takes around 1-2 days (longer for larger systems).
If you're installing solar panels or upgrading your existing system, you could reduce overall equipment and labour costs by installing batteries and solar at the same time.
If you’re not sure whether you need a battery system now, you can still add one down the track. Let your solar installer know that you may want to add batteries in the future. That way, they can select a location for the inverter which will be close to the future BESS site, with proximity to switchboards and Wifi or LAN Ethernet cabling.
Make sure you receive all the paperwork you need when your system is installed. Documentation will be important if you ever need to make a warranty or insurance claim.
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) Guide to Installing Solar for Households has a useful checklist of what documents you should receive when you have solar installed.
Under the CEC installation guidelines, you should be given:
- relevant manuals
- contact numbers
- safety information sheet
- battery commission sheet
- warranty
- ongoing monitoring information
- guidance on maintenance issues
- Certificate of Test.
Your installer must also take the time to explain the functionality of your system and answer any questions you have about operating your BESS, such as how to use the app or portal, safety concerns and shutdown procedures.
CEC accredited installers
Your BESS should only be installed by a Clean Energy Council accredited installer. Accredited installers are qualified to manage safe installations. They are also required to have public liability insurance.
It's also worth contacting your home insurance provider before installation commences to make sure your new battery system is covered by your policy.