Charging and Discharging Explained
Home batteries automatically store and release electricity based on how your home uses energy.
Charging and discharging describe how a home battery stores electricity and then uses it later. This process happens automatically and usually does not require any input from the homeowner.
A battery charges when there is excess electricity available. This commonly happens when solar panels are generating more power than the home is using, or when electricity is cheaper during off-peak hours. Instead of sending this excess energy back to the grid, the battery stores it for later use.
A battery discharges when the home needs electricity and stored energy is available. This often happens in the evening when solar generation drops, or during periods when electricity from the grid is more expensive. The battery supplies power to the home to reduce reliance on grid electricity.
Most battery systems are designed to prioritise self-consumption. This means they aim to maximise the use of energy generated on-site rather than exporting it. The system constantly balances charging and discharging to match household demand.
Charging and discharging levels vary throughout the day. It is normal for the battery to partially charge and discharge multiple times rather than moving from empty to full in one cycle. This behaviour supports battery health and efficiency.
If electricity demand is higher than the battery can supply, the home automatically draws additional power from the grid. The transition between battery power and grid power is seamless and usually unnoticeable.
Understanding this cycle helps explain why battery levels change throughout the day. These changes are expected and indicate that the system is working as intended.