Commercial Solar and Battery Storage: What to Assess First

Start with your site, not a battery size

A useful commercial energy brief explains how the business operates: opening hours, major loads, expected growth and any equipment that cannot tolerate an outage. Collect recent electricity bills and interval data before choosing equipment. Those records help distinguish daytime consumption from evening use and short demand peaks.

Compare solar-only and storage options

Solar generation can supply demand while the sun is available. Storage can move some energy to a different time. A battery is therefore not an automatic requirement for every solar project. Ask for separate options so the additional capital cost, losses and operating assumptions are visible.

Make the assumptions explicit

A proposal should explain what it assumes about energy prices, export limits, future consumption and equipment operation. Treat projected savings as an estimate based on those inputs, not a guaranteed result. Check whether the scope includes connection works, metering, control systems and ongoing support.

Define backup requirements separately

If continuity of supply matters, identify the circuits and loads that must operate during an outage and the required duration. Grid-connected storage does not automatically supply backup power. The system must be designed and configured for that purpose.

Include future EV charging

Share any planned vehicle numbers, parking times and charging requirements early. These can change the site demand profile and influence the electrical design. Avoid selecting a battery independently of the solar system, switchboard and future charging load.

Prepare your project brief

Send your site address, electricity records, operating hours and intended outcomes to Shakra Energy. Explore battery storage, solar and storage integration and commercial solar carports.

Further reading: Australian Government guidance on solar for businesses.