2023 was a record-breaking year for battery storage, with nearly 5,000 MCS certified installations registered across the UK. We’re seeing this momentum for battery storage carry forward into 2024, with over 2,200 certified installations already recorded since the year began, setting the stage for what looks to be another record-breaking year for this technology.
MCS recorded its first battery installation back in April 2022. Throughout the remainder of this year, the monthly average stood at just 34 installations, significantly rising to over 400 installations per month in 2023. In 2024 we’re now seeing an average of over 1,100 batteries being installed across the UK each month, showcasing an unprecedented rise in uptake.
The growth in battery storage mirrors the growing demand amongst homeowners to store their home-grown energy, reduce their energy bills, and claim their energy independence.
Nearly two years since the introduction of the Battery Storage Installation Standard, we’ve seen remarkable growth in the number of contractors and installations for this new tech type. Battery storage now ranks as the third most popular technology type to be installed amongst our contractor base, with over 1,100 contractors now certified for the technology.
This has increased from February 2023, having just 93 contractors certified for battery storage, our contractor base has grown by over 10 times in the space of a year.
Strength to strength
February of this year marked a milestone month for battery storage, it was the highest month on record for uptake, and the first to surpass 1,000 installations. We see this rise come after the temporary removal of VAT for all battery storage systems retrofitted onto existing solar PV installations, which came into effect on 1st February 2024.
We expect to see battery storage continue to go from strength to strength throughout 2024, as the tax incentive means costs are now reduced by up to 20% for installations with solar PV, enhancing accessibility and affordability for homeowners.
So far this year 85% of certified battery storage installations have been installed alongside a solar PV system. We’re seeing that combining battery and solar PV is becoming a trend amongst homeowners, allowing them to make the most out of their home-grown energy by storing it for use during peak consumption times, or by selling it back to the grid under a Smart Export Guarantee.
Exceeding expectations
One homeowner, Stephen, recently spoke to us about his experience of installing both battery storage and solar PV on his home in Telford. Installed by MCS certified contractor Craig Michael Renewables, Stephen reported that his installations had surpassed expectations, generating more electricity in six months than the average British household consumes in a year.
In the consultation on the 2025 Future Homes Standard that was published last year, the Government proposed all new build homes utilising solar and battery storage should only be fitted with battery systems compliant with MCS standards to ensure quality and safety.
Battery storage plays a vital role in driving forward the UK’s progress towards net zero. We anticipate continued demand and growth for this technology throughout 2024 and remain committed to closely monitoring its uptake, whilst informing government and industry stakeholders of its progress.
Image credit: MCS
