If solar is the star of the show, batteries are the breakout act. MCS data reported by CIBSE Journal shows 36,000 certified battery installations in the first half of 2026, almost double the same period in 2025.
The numbers
- Almost 150,000 certified solar installations in January to June 2026
- 36,000 certified battery installations, almost double the first half of 2025
- Nearly all of those batteries went into homes that already had solar
- 210,000 certified installations across all technologies, 17% above the previous best first half (2025)
Why are batteries taking off?
Panels make power in the middle of the day, but most of us use it in the morning and evening. A battery stores the spare sunshine so you can use it when you need it, rather than selling it back for a lower price and buying it again later. It is also a popular upgrade for people who already have panels.
Got panels already?
Good news: you can usually add a battery to an existing system. Tell us what you have and we will tell you honestly whether it makes sense.
Thinking about solar, a battery or an EV charger? Book a free chat and survey and we will talk it through with you, no pressure.
Figures are the latest available at the time of writing (November 2026) and are for general information only, not financial or tax advice.