If you already have solar panels on your roof in Basingstoke, Hook, Tadley, or Fleet, you might be wondering whether you can simply add a battery storage system to your setup — without tearing everything out and starting again.
The short answer? Yes, in most cases you can.
The slightly longer answer? It depends on your existing system and how it was originally installed.
Let’s walk you through what that really means — in plain English.
The good news: most solar systems can be upgraded
The vast majority of solar installations from the last 10 years can be retrofitted with battery storage quite easily.
If your panels are working well, your inverter is in good condition, and your wiring is sound, you can usually add a battery without replacing any of it.
Think of it like adding a new appliance — it integrates with your existing setup and quietly does its job in the background.
You don’t need to rebuild your solar system from scratch, and you don’t lose the investment you’ve already made.
How the battery connects to your current system
There are two main ways we can integrate a battery into an existing solar setup:
- AC-coupled systems — This is the most common retrofit option. The battery connects on the AC (alternating current) side of your inverter, so it works independently of your solar inverter. It simply charges from your solar power or the grid when available.
- DC-coupled systems — These connect on the DC (direct current) side and often require a hybrid inverter. They’re very efficient, but if your existing inverter isn’t compatible, it might need replacing to make this work.
For most homeowners in Basingstoke and North Hampshire, an AC-coupled battery system is the easiest and most cost-effective way to add storage without major changes.
What we check before installation
Before we recommend any system, the team at GU Solutions carries out a proper on-site survey.
We’ll:
- Inspect your current solar inverter and cabling
- Assess where the new battery can be fitted (garage, utility room, or outdoors)
- Review your energy usage and daily consumption
- Make sure your consumer unit and safety devices meet current standards
If everything checks out, we can install the new battery alongside your existing solar system with minimal disruption — often in less than a day.
The benefits of adding a battery later
Even if you didn’t install one at the start, adding a battery now can transform how your solar system performs.
Here’s what you’ll notice:
- Lower evening bills: you’ll use your stored energy instead of buying from the grid.
- Better energy independence: store power during the day, use it whenever you like.
- More control: some systems let you charge the battery at off-peak rates and use it during expensive hours.
- Future-proofing: modern batteries can be expanded as your needs change.
It’s a smart upgrade that turns your existing solar panels into a 24-hour power system.
When might you need to replace something?
Occasionally, an older inverter (usually 10+ years old) may not be compatible with the latest batteries or software. In that case, we’ll discuss whether a hybrid inverter makes sense — one that handles both solar and battery functions seamlessly.
It’s also worth upgrading if your system wasn’t installed to modern standards, or if you’re planning to expand your solar array soon.
But in most cases, there’s no need to start over — just a sensible upgrade that builds on what you already have.
How GU Solutions makes it simple
At GU Solutions, we’ve been helping homeowners across Basingstoke, Hook, Alton, and the surrounding Hampshire towns for over 20 years.
Our approach is simple:
- No jargon, no pressure, no inflated quotes.
- Just honest advice, professional installation, and neat, reliable work.
We’ll show you what’s compatible, what’s worth upgrading, and how soon you’ll see a return on your investment.
All work is carried out by our NICEIC-approved electricians, backed by our friendly local customer care team.
Ready to make your solar work harder?
If you’d like to store more of your own energy — and stop buying it back from the grid — talk to your local solar and battery specialists at GU Solutions.
Book a free home survey today, and we’ll show you exactly how a battery could fit with your existing system.
Call 01256 473326 or message us online.
We’ll make the upgrade simple, safe, and stress-free — and help you get even more value from the sunshine on your roof.
