Longer summers. Rising energy prices. Bigger power bills. 

If you’re building or upgrading a house, solar energy should be at the forefront of your mind to combat these growing pressures.

But solar panels are only half the story. Solar batteries are fast becoming the must-have addition for households that want to store power, use more of their own energy, and reduce reliance on the grid.

Proudly Australian-owned, iStore offers high-performing, reliable, and competitively priced solar batteries for houses in our great country.

Why are solar batteries worth the investment, how do they benefit both builders and homeowners, and why is iStore’s range the ideal choice? We’ll discuss all that and more!

What Is a Solar Battery for a House?

Solar panels generate electricity during the day when the sun is shining. The home immediately uses the electricity it needs to power lights, appliances, and anything else running.

Around midday, when the sun is strongest, solar panels tend to generate more electricity than a household needs. Instead of sending that excess electricity back to the grid, a solar battery stores it.

This battery connects to a solar inverter, which turns solar energy into usable electricity.

Solar panels stop producing power once the sun goes down. At that time, the battery sends the stored energy into the home to keep everything running. If the battery runs low, the house will automatically draw power from the grid as a backup.

Why Solar Batteries Are Essential for Modern Houses

Power Backup

Think of a solar battery as a home’s personal energy reserve. Once the sun goes down, the battery steps in to keep lights on and appliances running.

In the event of a power outage, having backup energy from a solar battery gives peace of mind—no scrambling for candles or worrying about food spoiling!

Builders offering homes with battery backup show homeowners that they’re building with comfort, reliability, and modern living in mind.

Lower Electricity Bills

A solar battery stores the excess energy a home’s solar panels produce during the day so that the home can rely less on the grid and, in turn, pay less for electricity.

In peak hours (typically early mornings and evenings) when electricity rates are higher or on cloudy days when the panels aren’t generating enough energy, a home can use the stored energy from a solar battery instead of expensive grid electricity.

For homeowners, this means lower bills and more control over their energy use. For builders, it’s a great way to offer clients long-term savings and boost the value of a home.

Sustainability

Australian homes significantly contribute to the nation’s carbon emissions, accounting for over 10% of total emissions and around 24% of overall electricity consumption. This substantial reliance on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases, drives climate change.​

Integrating solar batteries into residential properties offers a practical solution to this issue. Enabling homeowners to utilise renewable energy even when the sun isn’t shining reduces dependence on fossil fuel-based electricity, leading to a direct decrease in household carbon emissions. 

Homeowners benefit by reducing their carbon footprint and participating in global efforts to combat climate change while enjoying the reliability and cost savings associated with renewable energy.​

Builders incorporating solar batteries into new constructions abide by sustainable building practices and enhance a property’s appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. 

Key Benefits of Solar Batteries for Houses

For Builders

• Buyer Appeal: Attract buyers with sustainable, energy-efficient homes.
• Property Value: Add long-term value to properties with built-in renewable energy solutions.
• Cost Savings: Help buyers save money on electricity costs.
• Flexibility: Future-proof homes with modular battery systems that can scale to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly living.
• Market Edge: Stand out in a competitive market by offering smarter energy features.
• Compliance: Support compliance with evolving building regulations focused on energy efficiency.

For Homeowners

• Self-Sufficiency: Use more solar power instead of relying on the grid.
• Bill Reduction: Lower your electricity bills by tapping into stored energy, especially during peak times.
• Long-Term Savings: Enjoy long-term energy savings and independence from rising power prices.
• Backup Power: Keep essentials running during blackouts with stored energy.
• Sustainability: Reduce your carbon footprint by using clean, renewable energy.
• Property Value: Increase your home’s value with a solar battery system.

Why Choose iStore’s Solar Batteries for Houses?

Integration with Other Solar Solutions

iStore solar batteries for houses are compatible with iStore hybrid solar inverters, creating a complete solar energy system to power a home.

With this setup, solar panels generate energy from sunlight, the hybrid inverter converts that energy into usable power, and the battery stores any excess power for later use. 

All iStore components work together to keep a home powered all day, every day, without relying as much on expensive grid electricity. In some cases, such a setup can remove the need for grid electricity entirely!

The seamless integration between iStore solar products also means easier and faster installation, better energy efficiency, and simpler system monitoring through the iStore app.

Energy Efficiency

iStore solar batteries for houses are made of lithium iron phosphate (LFP). LFP batteries are one of the most energy-efficient battery types on the market.

While some solar batteries only allow access to 80–90% of the energy they store, our LFP solar battery provides 100% usable capacity. Households get the full benefit of what the battery stores without waste.

The battery also has built-in energy optimisers that maximise its usable energy by more than 10% over its lifecycle. These optimisers reduce energy loss and stress on the battery and help it run more efficiently over time.

Durability and Safety

iStore solar batteries for houses can withstand Australia’s diverse climate, operating effectively in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 55°C.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries are known for being safer and more stable than other lithium-ion batteries. They have four layers of built-in protection, including temperature sensors that monitor and adjust the battery’s load to prevent short circuits, overcharging, overheating, and other potential faults. Another safety feature is a self-extinguishing component in the unlikely event of thermal runaway or internal fire.

Affordability and Cost Savings

Every Australian household should have access to solar energy. That’s why we offer high-quality solar batteries at affordable, competitive prices without sacrificing performance.
Our solar batteries for houses balance upfront affordability and long-term value. They are built to last, with fewer moving parts requiring minimal maintenance. This durability means

they deliver reliable performance year after year, giving buyers more return on their investment. 

So, while a solar battery is an initial investment for homeowners, keep in mind that it pays for itself over time by reducing a home’s energy bills. 

For builders, an iStore solar battery is an easy way to add long-term value to a home without blowing out the construction budget.

Scalable Design

Each iStore solar battery is a stackable module weighing 50kgs with a capacity of 5kWh (kilowatt-hours). Connecting two modules creates a 10kWh battery, and connecting three modules gives you a 15kWh battery. For even more storage, you can connect two sets of 15kWh batteries side by side to achieve a maximum capacity of 30kWh.

The modular system makes it easy to upgrade a home’s solar storage. Homeowners can add more battery units without having to replace the entire system when their energy needs change, such as adding a granny flat to their property or buying an electric car. 

Even if a home has multiple iStore battery modules for high storage needs, each 5kWh module operates independently. This setup keeps the system balanced and running smoothly, making it more reliable.

Sleek, Modern Look

No one wants clunky tech ruining a clean home design and vibe! 

The iStore solar battery’s sleek, modern, and compact design doesn’t draw attention or take up unnecessary space. It blends effortlessly into a home, wherever it is installed. 

User-Friendly Features

The iStore WLAN dongle makes it easy for homeowners to get the most from their solar setup. This small device connects an iStore hybrid solar inverter and a solar battery system to a home’s Wi-Fi network.

Users can then remotely monitor and control how much energy their solar panels produce, how much their battery stores, and how much power their home uses via cloud-based platforms and mobile apps.

Commitment to Sustainability

iStore is committed to sustainability and supporting Australia’s renewable energy goals.

We were pleased to announce in September 2024 that our battery range complies with the “Equipment Requirements” released by the NSW government in conjunction with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal. IPART is an independent authority responsible for regulating prices and monitoring service delivery across various sectors, including electricity.   

NSW Climate and Energy Action states, “Installing more batteries across NSW will help make the grid more reliable and stable while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels during periods of peak demand. This will help reduce NSW’s emissions by 70% by 2035 and achieve net zero by 2050.”

What does this mean for iStore customers?

iStore CEO Eliese De Oliveira explains, “We know from experience that these schemes are very effective in generating better accessibility for homeowners wishing to enhance their sustainability by purchasing a battery. The scheme will see NSW property owners who utilise the rebate reduce their power bills while contributing to our collective net-zero targets.” 

Local Expertise

iStore is a proudly Australian-owned, family-run company with over 25 years of experience in the solar and water heating industries. We understand our customers and what they need from solar products.

• Affordability
• Long-term value
• Safety
• Reliability
• Durability
• Scalability
• Performance monitoring and control
• Strong warranties (10 years!)
• Technical support
• Installation and user manuals
• Access to local solar experts and technicians 

Choosing the Right Solar Battery for a House

What should you consider when choosing a solar battery for your home or a client’s?

1. What size battery does the house need?

Check how much energy your household uses daily. You can find this on your electricity bill, usually in kilowatt-hours (kWh). 

For a home under construction, you’ll have to research how much electricity a home of similar size uses. As an example, the average Australian household of four uses about 22kWh a day. 

Choose a battery that can cover the household’s evening and overnight usage—typically around half their daily total. So, for 22kWh usage a day, a 10–15kWh solar battery would be suitable. 

2. Is the battery compatible with the existing solar energy system setup?

If the home already has solar panels and an inverter, you must select a compatible solar battery.  

For systems with a standard string inverter, you may need to install a separate battery inverter to connect a battery. However, if the system already includes a hybrid inverter—which handles both solar and battery inputs—it’s much easier to add a battery.

3. Are the battery’s materials durable and safe?

Choose a battery made from stable, long-lasting materials like lithium iron phosphate. These batteries are known for their safety, thermal stability, and long lifespan, which is especially necessary in Australia’s sometimes harsh climate.

4. Can the battery system be scaled later?

If a home’s energy needs will increase over time, a modular battery system allows the addition of more battery units and storage without replacing the entire setup. This option is perfect for growing families.

5. Is the price reasonable?

Look for value, not just the cheapest option. A good-quality solar battery may cost more upfront but will save users more in the long run with better performance and efficiency.

6. Is the brand reputable?

Research brands with a proven track record, local support, and a solid warranty. A trusted name with good reviews and Australian-based customer service makes all the difference if you need help with the system down the line.

Installation and Maintenance of Solar Batteries for Houses

A professional, certified installer must install a solar battery system to ensure it meets all local building codes and safety regulations and to avoid potential legal and safety issues.​ Proper installation also maximises system performance and efficiency.​

Here’s how the installation process generally goes.

1. Site Assessment: The installer evaluates the home’s current solar setup, electrical system, and space availability to determine the best location and compatibility for the battery. 
2. System Design: They create a tailored plan, specifying the battery size, placement, and integration method with existing solar panels and the inverter.​
3. Permits: They obtain the necessary permits to comply with local regulations and safety standards.
4. Electrical Upgrades (If Needed): The home’s electrical panel may require upgrades to support the new battery system.
5. Battery Mounting: The installer mounts the battery to a wall. Common installation spots are garages, undercover carports, or other areas protected from heat, moisture, and dust. 
6. Electrical Integration: They then connect the battery to the solar inverter and install a safety disconnect, which is a switch that allows homeowners or technicians to quickly and safely shut off power to the solar battery for maintenance and emergency shutdowns.​ 
7. System Configuration and Testing: The installer configures and tests the entire setup to make sure the battery charges and discharges correctly and everything functions safely. ​
   

Once the battery is installed, maintenance is vital to keep it running consistently and safely.

We’ve designed our solar batteries for minimal maintenance.

• Weekly: Monitor the system’s performance through the iStore app, which works via the iStore WLAN dongle. Look for anything unusual, like lower-than-usual charge levels, the battery not discharging when expected, or error notifications.
• Monthly: Check the battery for cracks, dents, corrosion on terminals, loose cables, and signs of water damage, especially if it’s installed outside.
• Every 1–2 Years (Or As Needed): Arrange a professional service every year or two. Contact a certified technician immediately to address any irregularities or issues.​

FAQs

What Is the Best Solar Battery for a House?

The best solar battery for a house is one that matches the household’s energy needs, works with the house’s existing solar setup, and offers reliable performance, safety, and long-term value. 

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are a top choice for most homes due to their stability, long lifespan, and high efficiency.

How Much Does a Solar Battery Cost for a House in Australia?

The cost of a solar battery in Australia varies based on capacity and brand. 

Residential solar batteries typically range from $1,000 to $1,300 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) storage capacity. For instance, a 10 kWh battery might cost between $10,000 and $13,000. ​

Some Australian states offer rebates or incentives to reduce the upfront cost of solar batteries for houses. In NSW, for example, rebates can lower the price of a solar battery by $1,600 to $2,400.

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need for My House?

Check your power bill to find out how much electricity your household uses daily in kilowatt-hours (kWh). 

Then, choose a solar battery that can cover your home’s evening and overnight usage, usually around half your daily total. For example, if you use 30kWh a day, a 15kWh battery will suffice.

How Many Solar Batteries Are Needed To Power a House?

The number of solar batteries needed to power a house depends on the home’s energy consumption, the capacity of each battery, and whether the household is aiming for full energy independence or just backup during outages. 

While a 5kWh battery is insufficient to run an entire house, it can power essential household appliances, such as lights, a refrigerator, and a few electronics, for approximately 6–10 hours. 

A 10kWh solar battery can power essential household appliances for approximately 10–12 hours. 

So, generally speaking, installing two or three 5kWh solar batteries is enough to sufficiently power a house until solar production resumes or grid power is restored.

Can I Install My Own Solar Battery System?

Installing a solar battery system is subject to strict regulations to ensure safety and compliance. The Clean Energy Council (CEC) mandates that only accredited professionals can install battery energy storage systems. ​

Attempting a DIY installation without proper accreditation can lead to significant safety hazards and may violate local laws.

Which Type of Battery Is Best for Solar?

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are widely considered the best solar battery. They’re safer, more stable, last longer, and perform better in high temperatures.

Why iStore Solar Batteries Are Perfect for Powering Homes

If you’re building a home for a client, including an iStore solar battery helps deliver a sustainable, energy-efficient home—the kind buyers love to live in. Happy clients mean glowing reviews, more referrals, and a reputation for building homes that perform.

If you’re upgrading your home’s solar energy system, an iStore solar battery gives you more energy control, lower bills, and reliable power whenever you need it.

iStore has the solar battery solution that builds better living. 

Explore our solar batteries for houses online and then get in touch for a consultation or quote by calling 1300 515 640 or filling out this online form.

Most homeowners and business owners don’t have the technical knowledge to choose solar components for their solar systems, so they rely on professional solar retailers and installers like yourself to guide them toward the best options.

You know a solar inverter is the key player in converting solar energy into usable power. If it’s unreliable or inefficient, the entire system suffers, leading to unhappy customers, warranty headaches, and costly callbacks!

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That’s why choosing the right inverter is not just about specs but also about safety, reliability, and long-term value.

At iStore, we understand this. Our solar inverters are built for peace of mind, performance, and affordability, making them a top choice for retailers and installers looking to offer products that deliver real results.

What is the best solar inverter to recommend to your customers? Let’s break down the features that make an inverter truly “the best”.

Definition and Function of Solar Inverters

A solar inverter converts the DC electricity generated from solar panels into the AC electricity homes and businesses use. Various inverter types are available to suit different system sizes, energy needs, and installation setups.  These include String inverters Microinverters Hybrid inverters Central inverters 3-phase inverters We’ll go into detail about these later on.

How Solar Inverters Work

You know how a solar inverter works, but explaining that to customers can be challenging! 

Try this:

Here’s a more technical explanation if they’re interested.

1. Solar Panels Capture Sunlight: When the sun shines on solar panels, the photovoltaic (PV) cells absorb the sunlight, exciting electrons and generating direct current (DC) electricity. 
2. The Inverter Receives DC Power: The raw DC electricity from the panels can’t be used directly in most homes or businesses, which run on alternating current (AC) electricity. The solar inverter receives this DC power and prepares it for conversion.
3. MPPT Technology Optimises Energy Production: The inverter uses Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology to adjust the panels in changing sunlight conditions (shade, cloud cover, and temperature changes) to extract the maximum possible energy.
4. DC Power Converts to AC Power: Inside the inverter, the DC electricity switches rapidly back and forth, creating an alternating current (AC) waveform that matches the electricity used in homes and businesses. 
5. Grid Synchronisation and Safety Features Activate: If the system connects to the electricity grid, the inverter synchronises the converted AC power with the grid’s voltage and frequency. Anti-islanding protection automatically shuts off power if the grid goes down, preventing unsafe backfeeding into power lines during outages.
6. Power is Used or Sent to the Grid/Battery: The converted AC power flows into the home or business, powering appliances, lighting, and other electrical devices. Excess energy can be exported to the grid for credits (if grid-tied) or stored in a battery for later use (if part of a hybrid or off-grid system).

Importance of Solar Inverters for Solar Panels

A solar inverter 

• Converts Energy for Use. The inverter transforms raw DC power from solar panels into functional AC power for everyday use.
• Optimises Solar System Efficiency. A high-quality inverter maximises power output, improving energy efficiency and system performance.
• Monitors System Performance. Many modern inverters have monitoring features that track energy production, efficiency, and potential system issues.
• Enables Grid Connection. If a system connects to the grid, the inverter ensures that the electricity matches grid standards for seamless integration.
• Supports Battery Storage. In hybrid systems, inverters manage energy flow between solar panels, batteries, and the grid.

What Makes a Solar Inverter the Best? Key Features to Look For

Safety

A solar inverter should protect the solar power system, the home or business, and the people who depend on its electricity. Safety features prevent electrical hazards, extend the inverter’s lifespan, and comply with Australian electrical and grid standards. 

The best solar inverter should have the following safety features. 

• Arc Fault Protection: Detects and stops dangerous electrical arcs caused by faulty wiring, aging components, and loose connections, reducing the risk of fires.
• Cooling Systems: Heat sinks (metal components that absorb and dissipate heat) and passive cooling (which relies on natural airflow) prevent inverters from overheating and failing. 
• Surge Protection: Absorbs sudden voltage spikes caused by lightning or grid fluctuations, shielding the inverter from damage.
• Anti-Islanding Protection: Prevents the solar system from sending power back to the grid during a blackout, protecting utility workers and complying with regulations.
• Ground Fault Detection: Monitors the electrical circuit for leaks (where electricity unintentionally flows to the ground) and automatically shuts down the system to prevent electric shocks and fires.
• Rapid Shutdown Function: Quickly shuts down the system in an emergency, protecting installers and emergency responders from electrical hazards.

Reliability

A reliable solar inverter will produce consistent energy for many years, be less likely to break down, and be cheaper to maintain.

For an inverter to be considered reliable, it must have

• High-Efficiency Ratings. These translate to maximum energy conversion, reduced losses, and the delivery of more usable power from solar panels.
• Proven Durability. A quality inverter should have an IP65+ rating for weather protection, heat-resistant components, and robust build quality to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and dust.
• Consistent Grid Stability. To smoothly manage voltage fluctuations, grid instability, and load changes for stable operation, even during peak demand periods.
• A Long Warranty. A strong manufacturer-backed warranty of at least 10 years reflects confidence in the product’s longevity.
• Comprehensive Customer Support. Local technical support and service availability for warranty claims, installation queries, and performance issues mean installers and customers get fast, effective solutions when needed.
• A Proven Track Record. Trusted brands will have a history of positive user feedback.

Affordability and Value

When recommending an inverter, balance upfront cost with performance and durability so your customers get the best return on their investment. A well-priced inverter that performs dependably for years is a far better investment than a budget option that fails prematurely or needs frequent servicing! 

Here’s what to consider when evaluating affordability and value.

• Cost vs. Performance: While a lower-cost inverter may save money upfront, it could lead to higher maintenance costs or early replacement. Investing in a reliable, efficient model often yields greater savings over time.
• Warranty Coverage: A longer, manufacturer-backed warranty adds value by protecting against costly repairs or replacements.
• Efficiency and Energy Savings: A high-efficiency inverter converts more solar energy into usable electricity, reducing waste and maximising energy bill savings.
• Built-in Features: Some inverters come with advanced monitoring, surge protection, and battery compatibility, which provide added benefits without extra costs.
• Rebates and Incentives: Certain reputable inverters may be eligible for government rebates or incentives, making them more affordable.

Compatibility

A solar inverter must integrate with the rest of the solar power system for optimal performance. Choosing the wrong inverter can lead to inefficiencies, limited functionality, and even system failures.

An inverter should work well with

• Solar Panel Capacity and Voltage Range. The inverter must match the solar panels’ total power output and voltage to avoid energy losses and system inefficiencies.
• Battery Storage Systems. If the system includes (or may later include) a solar battery, a hybrid inverter will smoothly manage energy between solar panels, batteries, and the grid.
• Grid Requirements and Regulations. A compliant inverter must meet Australian grid standards, including voltage, frequency, and safety requirements for seamless grid connection and feed-in tariff eligibility.
• Monitoring and Smart Features. Many inverters integrate with Wi-Fi monitoring platforms, allowing customers and installers to track performance, detect issues, and optimise energy use.
• Backup Power and Off-Grid Systems. Some inverters can support off-grid or backup power functionality to keep essential appliances running during power outages.

Ease of Use and Monitoring

The best inverters should be easy for installers to install and easy for customers to operate. That way, everybody wins!

What makes an inverter easy to use and monitor?

• Simple Installation and Setup: Clear wiring terminals, straightforward mounting options, and an intuitive interface make the installation process quicker and reduce the risk of errors.
• Real-Time Energy Monitoring: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity lets users track energy production, consumption, and system health via a mobile app or web portal.
• Automated Alerts and Diagnostics: Smart inverters can detect faults, send automatic alerts, and give troubleshooting insights, helping installers and users resolve issues quickly before they impact performance.
• User-Friendly Display: Customers can check their system’s status at a glance on a built-in LCD or LED screen displaying performance metrics.
• Remote Access and Smart Integration: Some advanced inverters integrate with smart home systems, battery storage, and third-party monitoring platforms, giving users more control over their energy usage.

Why iStore Solar Inverters Are Among the Best

Safety First

The safety features of iStore inverters protect homes and businesses while keeping solar systems running optimally for the long haul. Your customers can rest assured knowing that their safety is taken care of. 

These safety features include

1. Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI): Detects and shuts down electrical arcs within 0.5 seconds, eliminating potential fire hazards. 
2. AI-Powered Arc Fault Detection: Traditional arc detection systems use preset thresholds to identify faults. AI-powered arcing protection goes a step further, using algorithms that “learn” and adapt to recognise even subtle patterns that indicate potential arcing. The system then automatically shuts down if an arc is detected. 
3. Natural Cooling Systems: Passive cooling systems relying on natural airflow and heat sinks to absorb and dissipate heat prevent our inverters from overheating and failing. As a bonus, these systems do not use fans or moving parts, lessening operating noise and system wear. 
4. Residual Current Monitoring Unit (RCMU): Continuously monitors the electrical flow and detects any leakage current that may occur due to damaged insulation, moisture, or wiring faults. If leakage is detected, the system triggers an alert or automatic shutdown, preventing electric shocks, fire hazards, and equipment damage.

Affordability Without Compromising Quality

Customers want a cost-effective solar system that delivers long-term savings, while retailers must offer high-quality products at competitive prices to stay ahead in the market.

iStore makes premium solar solutions more accessible by offering top-tier inverters at highly competitive prices—without cutting corners on performance, safety, or durability. With iStore, you can confidently provide customers with reliable, efficient inverters that won’t break the bank.

To add even more value, we offer free shipping and exclusive promotions.

For example, customers who purchase an iStore inverter between August 1, 2023, and July 1, 2025, receive a promotional 2-year warranty extension in addition to the usual 10-year warranty. 

But wait, there’s more! 

With the purchase of an iStore solar inverter and 10kW battery, both solar retailers and end customers can win a BYD Dolphin Electric Vehicle valued at $38,890! Each purchase is eligible for a double entry in this Great iStore Giveaway—one for the retailer and one for the end customer.

Promoting Renewable Energy

Our solar inverters help homeowners and businesses reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower their carbon footprint by converting renewable and abundant solar power into usable electricity.

With their battery-ready technology, our inverters also support energy storage. Users can store excess solar power and use it when needed instead of relying on grid electricity, further maximising self-sufficiency and sustainability.

By offering affordable, high-quality solar solutions, we empower more people to switch to solar, accelerating the transition toward a cleaner, greener energy future.

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

We provide comprehensive resources to support you throughout the process of purchasing and installing our solar inverters. 

Our website has detailed user manuals, and if you have an installation question or need technical advice, our support team is ready to help. Just call us on 1300 515 640, email info@istore.net.au, or fill out this online form.  

Our Solar Inverter Range

We can confidently say that our solar inverters are among the best on the market. As well as being loaded with safety features and competitively priced, they’re also battery-ready for future scalability.

What does that mean?

As energy prices change and feed-in tariffs decrease, more homeowners and businesses are looking for ways to store their excess solar power.

iStore inverters are designed to work with battery storage at any time, not just at installation. Customers won’t need costly upgrades or replacements when they decide to install an iStore battery, making their solar investment more flexible and future-proof.

So, “What is the best solar inverter in Australia?”

An iStore solar inverter, we reckon! Let’s take you through our range.

Single-Phase Hybrid Inverters

Our 5000/6000 1PH hybrid inverter connects to a single-phase power grid commonly used in most homes.

Its features include

1. 2 x Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): A technology that tracks and adjusts solar panels to operate at their maximum power point for optimal energy efficiency.
2. IP65 Protection Rating: This inverter is highly rated for ingress protection, guaranteeing protection from dust and water. 
3. Quiet Operation: Under 30db!
4. Remote Monitoring: Real-time monitoring, anywhere and anytime, with the Univers EMS and iStore solar energy management app. 

Our 10kW 1 PH hybrid inverter has an extra Maximum Power Point (MPP) tracker for better energy optimisation and is super efficient, boasting up to 98.1% efficiency!

It also has three PV string inputs, which refer to the connections for multiple groups of solar panels (strings) to the inverter. This inverter can handle up to three separate panel arrays, allowing for greater flexibility in system design, such as panels facing different directions or installed at varying angles.

3-Phase Hybrid Inverters

Our 10kW/15kW/25kW 3 PH hybrid inverter and 5000/6000 3 PH hybrid inverter are suitable for larger homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities with a 3-phase grid connection. They handle more power and distribute it evenly throughout the house or building to reduce strain on the solar system. 

With AFCI (Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection and an IP rating of 65 and 66, these models prioritise safety and resilience for homes and businesses with high energy demands.

Our other 3-phase inverter is the 29900/40000 3 PH inverter for commercial solar applications. 

Along with 4 x MPPT and a 3-phase grid connection, it features

1. 8-Strings Intelligent Monitoring: Tracking up to eight separate groups of solar panels, checking each group is working at its best.
2. Power Line Communication (PLC): Allowing the inverter to send data over existing power lines, so no extra wiring is needed to monitor and control the system remotely.
3. Smart I-V Curve Diagnosis Support: Automatically checks the performance of solar panels to detect any issues early and keep the system running smoothly.
4. Maximum Efficiency: 98.6% efficiency!

Comparing Solar Inverter Types: Which Is Best for Your Customers?

String Inverters

A string inverter is the most common type of solar inverter used in residential and small commercial solar systems. It connects multiple solar panels in a series (or “string”), converting the combined DC electricity from all the panels into usable AC power for a home or business.

Pros

✔ Cost-Effective: More affordable than microinverters or hybrid systems.
✔ Proven Technology: Widely used and trusted in the solar industry.
✔ Easier Installation and Maintenance: Since there’s only one inverter, servicing is simpler than troubleshooting multiple microinverters.
✔ Good for Unshaded Roofs: Works efficiently when all panels receive consistent sunlight throughout the day.

Cons

✖ Performance Dependency: Since all panels in a string are connected to one inverter, their performance is linked. If one panel is shaded, dirty, or underperforming, it reduces the efficiency of the entire string.

✖ Limited Design Flexibility: Panels must be installed at the same angle and orientation for best performance.
✖ No Panel-Level Monitoring: Unlike microinverters, string inverters don’t allow for individual panel performance tracking.  

Microinverters

Unlike string inverters, which manage multiple solar panels at once, microinverters are installed on each individual panel. This means every panel operates independently, converting its own DC electricity into AC power right at the source.

Pros

✔ Maximised Energy Production: Each panel performs independently, so shading or dirt on one panel doesn’t reduce the output of the others.
✔ Greater Design Flexibility: Panels can be installed at different angles and orientations on complex roof layouts or areas with partial shading without impacting system performance.
✔ Panel-Level Monitoring: Users can track individual panel performance, making detecting and fixing issues easier.
✔ Increased Safety: Converts DC to AC at the panel level, reducing the risk of high-voltage DC hazards.

Cons

✖ Higher Cost: More expensive upfront than string inverters due to needing multiple units.
✖ More Complex Installation: Each panel requires its own inverter, increasing installation time.
✖ Difficult Maintenance: If a microinverter fails, troubleshooting and repairs may be more time-consuming since each inverter is mounted on the roof.

Hybrid Inverters

A hybrid inverter does everything a standard solar inverter does—converting DC electricity from solar panels into AC power—but with one big advantage: it can also manage battery storage. Homeowners or business owners can store excess solar energy in a battery instead of sending it to the grid.

Pros

✔ Battery-Ready: Easily integrates with solar batteries for energy storage and backup power.
✔ Greater Energy Independence: Reduces reliance on the grid by storing excess solar power for later use, like at night or during blackouts

✔ Optimised Energy Management: Smart software helps manage energy flow between solar panels, batteries, and the grid for maximum efficiency.
✔ Future-Proof Investment: Allows for easy upgrades later if a battery isn’t installed right away.

Cons

✖ Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than traditional string inverters due to added battery management features.
✖ System Configuration Required: While hybrid inverters are battery-ready, they can require custom settings and programming from a professional installer. 

✖ May Require a Compatible Battery: Some hybrid inverters only work with specific battery brands or types, limiting flexibility.

Central Inverters

Central inverters work similarly to string inverters but on a much larger scale. Instead of handling a few solar panels, they manage power from hundreds or even thousands of panels simultaneously. These inverters are typically used in large commercial and utility-scale solar farms, where multiple panel strings feed into a single, high-capacity inverter.

Pros

✔ High Efficiency for Large Systems: Optimised for processing energy from hundreds or thousands of solar panels.
✔ Lower Cost Per kW: More economical for large installations compared to using multiple smaller inverters.
✔ Simplified Maintenance: With a single, centralised unit, servicing and troubleshooting can be more straightforward than maintaining many smaller inverters.

<Cons

✖ Performance Dependency: Since many panels feed into one unit, an issue in part of the system can reduce overall efficiency.
✖ Higher Risk of Downtime: If the central inverter fails, the entire system stops producing power until repairs are made.

3-Phase Inverters

A 3-phase inverter is designed for properties with a 3-phase power supply, such as large homes, businesses, and industrial sites. Unlike standard single-phase inverters that send power through one electrical phase, 3-phase inverters distribute electricity evenly across three phases, making them ideal for handling higher energy loads.

Pros

✔ Ideal for High Power Demand: Supports larger properties with high energy needs, a 3-phase power supply, and inverter capacities exceeding 5kW.

✔ More Efficient Power Distribution: Spreads energy evenly across three phases, reducing voltage fluctuations and improving stability.
✔ Better Grid Compatibility: Works perfectly with 3-phase electrical systems, preventing overloads and improving performance.
✔ Supports Larger Solar Arrays: Can handle higher solar panel capacities for large installations.

Cons

✖ Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than single-phase inverters due to their increased capacity and advanced functionality.
✖ May Require Grid Approval: Some locations have specific regulations for connecting 3-phase inverters to the power grid.