Fast read
Yes, a home battery can take you fully off-grid in Australia—but it’s far more complex than just adding a battery to your home. Off-grid living requires a carefully designed system that includes a larger-than-normal solar array, a substantial battery bank (usually lithium-based), a robust off-grid inverter, and often a backup generator.
You'll also need to rethink your energy usage and take full responsibility for your power supply. While energy independence is appealing, the cost, complexity, and commitment mean it's not the right fit for everyone.
Can a home battery take you fully off-grid?
Going fully off-grid means your home is completely disconnected from the main electricity grid. You generate and manage 100% of your electricity—typically via solar panels—and store excess power in batteries for use at night or during cloudy weather.
This differs significantly from grid-connected systems, which still draw power from the grid when solar and battery reserves run low. Off-grid homes don’t benefit from feed-in tariffs and can’t fall back on the grid during outages. You’re on your own—by design.
What does an off-grid solar and battery system include?
A successful off-grid setup isn’t just about adding more panels or a bigger battery. It’s an integrated system, designed for resilience and energy self-sufficiency.
Solar panels
Off-grid systems need significantly more solar capacity than grid-tied systems. Your panels must generate enough power to meet your daily needs and charge your batteries fully, even during poor weather. AIKO panels, known for their high efficiency, are often recommended in space-limited or high-demand situations.
Home battery bank
You’ll need a much larger battery setup than in typical grid-connected homes. Most off-grid homes use lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries for their safety, long lifespan, and deeper discharge capacity. Brands like Sigenergy and Tesla offer reliable off-grid-capable battery systems.
Off-grid inverter/charger
Unlike standard inverters, off-grid inverters (e.g., by Victron or Selectronic) manage energy from your panels, batteries, and backup generator, often prioritising power delivery in real time. These are essential for syncing and protecting your system.
Backup generator
Petrol or diesel generators are often required during extended cloudy periods or if your system fails. While not eco-friendly, they provide essential redundancy. Newer models integrate with off-grid inverters to auto-start when needed.
System controller and monitoring
Smart monitoring helps you track battery charge levels, solar production, and household consumption, allowing you to fine-tune usage, avoid overloads, and extend battery life.
How do you size an off-grid solar battery system correctly?
System sizing is a make-or-break factor for going off-grid successfully.
Load analysis:
Start by calculating your typical daily energy use in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Factor in seasonal shifts, household growth, and big appliances like electric ovens or EV chargers. A professional installer will create a load profile to guide system design.
Days of autonomy:
This refers to how many days your battery system should sustain you without solar input. Most off-grid homes aim for 2–3 days, meaning much larger storage is required than grid-tied systems.
Location and solar exposure:
In regions with high winter cloud cover (e.g., southern Victoria or Tasmania), you’ll need extra generation and storage capacity. Sun-rich areas like Queensland or northern NSW can afford leaner setups.
Professional design:
Off-grid systems should be designed and installed by Clean Energy Council (CEC)-accredited professionals experienced in off-grid projects. Proper design avoids costly failures and ensures compliance with Australian Standards.
What are the main challenges of going fully off-grid?
While the benefits are clear—energy independence, no electricity bills, and resilience during blackouts—the challenges are often underestimated.
High upfront cost:
Off-grid systems typically cost $30,000–$60,000 or more, depending on size and location. This includes the cost of batteries, a large solar array, an off-grid inverter, a generator, and installation.
Ongoing maintenance and responsibility:
You’re in charge of keeping your system running—servicing the generator, monitoring performance, and replacing components as needed. There’s no power company to fall back on.
No feed-in tariffs:
Unlike grid-connected homes, you can’t sell excess solar energy back to the grid. Once your batteries are full, any surplus generation is wasted unless redirected (e.g. to hot water or EV charging).
Lifestyle adjustments:
You may need to shift habits, like running high-demand appliances only when the sun is shining. Efficiency becomes critical. Using energy-smart appliances (e.g., heat pump hot water systems) can help reduce demand.
Generator reliance:
Most off-grid systems still rely on fossil-fuel generators during prolonged cloudy weather. This adds to running costs and emissions. Eco-conscious owners can offset this by replanting trees or investing in biodiesel options where available.
Compliance and approvals:
All components must meet relevant Australian standards (e.g., AS/NZS 5033 for solar, AS/NZS 5139 for batteries). You may also need council permits for solar arrays, especially on rural properties or in bushfire-prone areas.
When does going off-grid make sense?
Going fully off-grid can be the right move in specific cases:
- Remote locations: Where grid connection is prohibitively expensive or unavailable (e.g., rural blocks or island properties).
- Unreliable grid supply: In areas with frequent blackouts, especially where infrastructure upgrades are unlikely.
- Lifestyle choice: For those committed to full energy independence, often driven by sustainability values or resilience concerns.
Are there better alternatives for urban and suburban homes?
Yes. For most households, especially in urban or semi-rural areas, a grid-connected solar and battery system with blackout protection offers a more cost-effective compromise. These setups reduce bills, keep your lights on during outages, and provide long-term flexibility.
Systems like the Tesla Powerwall or Sungrow hybrid inverter with battery can isolate from the grid during blackouts and power essential appliances. You stay connected—but empowered.
Final thoughts: Is full off-grid living right for you?
Yes, a home battery system can take you fully off-grid—but it’s not a plug-and-play solution. Off-grid living demands a much larger and more complex setup, deeper financial investment, and a mindset shift toward active energy management.
If you live in a remote area, want total control over your energy, or are prepared for the responsibility of maintaining your own power system, off-grid may be the right path. But for most Australians, a hybrid solar-battery system with backup is a smarter, more affordable way to cut bills and boost energy resilience.
Not sure where to begin? Your Energy Answers can connect you with accredited off-grid system designers who understand local conditions and compliance requirements.
