If you’re looking into a home energy storage system – you know, a solar battery to pair with your panels – one of the first questions is: “Where can I put it? And is it safe to install inside the house or in the garage?”
The quick answer: Yes, it can be safe — but only if it’s installed correctly, by a qualified installer, and meets the relevant UK standards. Let’s break it down in plain English for homes around Basingstoke, Hook, Tadley and the rest of Hampshire.
What the official guidance says
In the UK the key reference is the BS 7671:2018 + A3:2024 (also called the IET Wiring Regulations) — it sets out the minimum safety requirements for all electrical installations, including solar and battery systems.
More specifically for storage batteries, the IET Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) gives additional guidance on safe installation, location, ventilation, access and fire prevention.
Some key points:
- Domestic battery installations should comply with BS 7671 requirements for consumer units, protection devices and wiring.
- The IET CoP states the UK does not currently prohibit indoor installation of energy storage systems — the installer (and manufacturer) must determine if the location is suitable.
- Additional guidance (such as the PAS 63100:2024 from BSI) advises against placing batteries in voids or lofts unless specific safety measures are in place — though this is recommendation rather than regulation.
What “inside the home or garage” really means
So, for a home in Basingstoke: can you install the battery inside the house, in a utility room, in a garage, or even in a loft?
Yes — potentially.
But you’ll want to make sure the installation ticks several safety boxes:
- Location & access – The battery should be in a place that is accessible for maintenance, isn’t too cramped, isn’t subject to extreme temperatures, and is preferably in a well-ventilated area.
- Ventilation & temperature control – Batteries perform best and last longer if kept in moderate temperatures with some airflow. Lofts can be tricky because of fluctuating heat, limited access and poor ventilation.
- Structural support – The floor/wall where the battery is mounted must support its weight and be safe for the location (particularly in garages with damp or unheated spaces).
- Electrical installation & protection – The wiring, consumer unit, over-current protection, isolation switches and integration with any existing solar system must be done to BS 7671 and the IET CoP for EESS. For example, if you’re adding storage on top of generation and loads, you must check ratings of consumer units to prevent overload.
- Fire safety & manufacturer instructions – You must follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Fire detection in the room, clearances around the battery, appropriate isolation and warning labelling may be required. The IET CoP offers risk assessment guidance.
So is it safe? Yes — if done properly
For homeowners in Basingstoke, the bottom line is: having a battery installed inside your home or garage can be perfectly safe — and many homeowners do so successfully — provided that:
- It’s installed by a qualified, accredited electrician (for example, one registered with a scheme like NICEIC)
- The system complies with BS 7671 and the relevant IET Code of Practice
- The location is suitable (ventilation, temperature, access all considered)
- The installation meets manufacturer instructions and is commissioned, tested and certified
As your local experts, at GU Solutions we make sure all basis are covered, so you get a safe, tidy installation that meets all regulations — you don’t have to worry about it.
Quick checklist for your home battery location in Hampshire
- ✅ Is the room/garage accessible and free of obstruction?
- ✅ Can the location maintain a moderate temperature (ideally 10-30 °C)?
- ✅ Is there enough ventilation or are there provisions for airflow?
- ✅ Is the floor/wall structurally sound for the weight of the battery?
- ✅ Has the installer confirmed consumer unit, wiring, protection devices are compliant with BS 7671?
- ✅ Will you receive the documentation, warranties and certificates after installation?
If you tick those off, you’re well on your way to a safe installation.
Final word
As with any electrical installation in your home, safety comes down to proper design, compliant installation, and ongoing support. A battery can be installed indoors — in a garage or utility room — as long as everything is done by the book.
If you’re in Basingstoke or anywhere in northern Hampshire and you’re thinking about a home battery, let us walk you through the options, inspect your space, and make sure it all meets the regulations — so you get the benefit without the risk.
Call us at 01256 473326 or drop us a message. We’ll make it simple, honest and safe.
