The benefits of combining an EV charger and battery storage system

A question we’re often asked when people switch to electric cars is “what’s the best way to charge them at home without pushing energy bills up?”

For a lot of households, the answer is to buy a battery.

In 2025, more than 22,000 home battery systems were installed across the UK, according to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). That’s a 30% jump on the year before, which says more about how people are thinking differently about their energy use.

With prices still up and down, it’s not surprising that homeowners want a bit more control over when they use electricity – and how much they’re paying for it.

Making the most of cheaper electricity

If you’ve got an electric car, you’ll already know that charging at home is usually the most convenient option. But the cost can vary quite a bit depending on the time of day.

That’s where a battery comes in. Instead of drawing electricity from the grid whenever you need it, a battery lets you store energy when it’s cheaper – often overnight on off-peak tariffs. You can then use that stored energy later to charge your car, rather than paying higher daytime rates.

That can make a noticeable difference over time. You’re simply shifting when you buy your electricity, which gives you more control over your bills.

Less reliance on the grid

Another reason people are looking at battery storage is to reduce how much they depend on the grid, especially during peak times when electricity is more expensive.

The number of electric vehicles on UK roads is growing quickly – there are now over a million fully electric cars, according to the Department for Transport. As that number continues to rise in the lead-up to the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, demand for electricity will only increase.

Having your own stored supply of energy means you’re not as exposed to those pressures. It gives you a bit of breathing space, particularly at times when demand is high.

Even better with solar panels

If you already have solar panels, or you’re thinking about them, battery storage makes even more sense.

Solar panels tend to generate the most electricity during the middle of the day, when many homes aren’t using much power. Without a battery, a lot of that energy can go back to the grid.

With a battery, you can keep hold of it and use it later – whether that’s in the evening or to charge your car overnight.

It’s no coincidence that more than 60% of new battery systems are installed alongside solar panels, according to MCS. People want to use more of what they generate themselves, rather than buying it back later.

A more practical way to run your home

Energy use at home isn’t always steady. Some days you’re using more, some days less. Charging an electric car can also add a big chunk onto your usual demand.

A battery helps even things out. It stores energy when it’s available and lets you use it when you need it most – not just for your car, but for appliances like your dishawasher or washing machine.

If you’re thinking about adding solar panels or a battery storage system to your home, we can help you put the two together in a way that actually works for how you use energy day to day.

We design and install tailored solar PV and battery storage systems that help you make the most of the energy you generate, reduce what you take from the grid, and bring down your electricity bills.

Try our instant quote tool for a detailed proposal – we’ll talk you through the options and build something that fits your home.

Get in touch with our team at sales@eerenewables.co.uk.