Amidst the surging demand for electricity in Vietnam and the volatility of the national grid electricity price, installing solar power systems combined with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) has become an inevitable development trend not only for households but also for businesses, industrial parks, and large-scale production facilities.
The addition of battery storage allows solar systems to not only generate electricity but also store it, providing power even when the sun is off, addressing the need for stable and reliable electricity in all weather conditions. This represents an upgrade from traditional grid-tied solar power systems to a modern hybrid solution with integrated storage.
Overview of the BESS solar power system solution combined with battery storage
Solar power is electricity generated from sunlight through photovoltaic panels. When sunlight shines on the photovoltaic cells, the radiation is converted into direct current (DC), then converted to alternating current (AC) through an inverter, suitable for use in homes, businesses, or for feeding into the national grid.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are energy storage systems that store excess electricity from solar power systems in batteries for use when needed: at night, during rain, or during sudden power outages. This is a key component that increases the stability and self-sufficiency of renewable energy systems.
Why is the trend of installing solar power systems combined with BESS (Balanced Energy System) becoming increasingly popular?
Stabilizing the power supply reduces dependence on the grid
When installing a solar power system combined with BESS battery storage, the system is no longer entirely dependent on sunlight at the time of use. Solar power generated during the day is stored in the batteries and then supplied to the load at night, when it is cloudy, or in situations of sudden grid power outages.
Save on your monthly electricity bill
One of the biggest benefits of installing a solar power system combined with BESS is optimizing electricity costs. Instead of having to buy grid electricity at high prices during peak hours (usually from 9:30–11:30 and 17:00–20:00), users can utilize the electricity stored in the batteries during the day.
Storing surplus electricity and using it during peak hours significantly reduces electricity bills from the grid. Many households can save millions of dong on electricity bills each month thanks to the Hybrid + BESS system, with an average payback period of 5–7 years and a system lifespan of 20–25 years.
In line with the national energy development strategy
Recent draft policies and guidelines indicate that solar power projects integrating battery storage systems (BESS) are preferred, as they help reduce pressure on the national grid, limit overload during peak hours, and improve the operational quality of the power system.
The development of solar power combined with battery storage systems (BESS) not only benefits users but also aligns with Vietnam’s national energy orientation and policies for the coming period.
Solar power system model combined with battery storage
On-Grid
Grid-tied solar power systems were the most common model in the past. Electricity generated from solar panels is used directly for the load, and any surplus electricity (if any) is fed into the national grid via a grid-tied inverter.
Advantage:
– Lowest initial investment cost among solar power models
– Suitable for households or businesses that use a lot of electricity during the day
Limitations:
– No backup power in case of grid power outages
– Savings efficiency depends heavily on electricity purchase and sale policies and electricity usage time
Off-Grid
Off-Grid systems are a model that is not connected to the national power grid. All the electricity generated from the solar panels is stored in batteries, which then power the consuming devices.
Advantages:
– Operates completely independently of the power grid.
– Suitable for remote areas, islands, farms, or temporary structures.
Limitations:
– High investment cost due to the need for large battery storage capacity
– If the design is incorrect, there may be power shortages during the rainy season or on days with little sunshine
Hybrid solar power system with BESS battery storage
Hybrid + BESS system
This model combines the advantages of both grid-tied and off-grid systems. Solar power generated is prioritized for direct use by the load, any surplus is stored in BESS batteries, and the system can still draw power from the grid when needed.
Key advantages:
– Ensures continuous power supply, even during power outages
– Significantly reduces electricity costs during peak hours
– Flexibly expands battery capacity according to usage needs
Limitations:
– Higher initial investment cost compared to grid-tied systems
– Requires appropriate design and equipment selection to optimize efficiency
Estimated cost for installing a solar power system + BESS battery storage
The cost of installing a solar power system combined with BESS battery storage depends on the system size, electricity demand, and desired level of power self-sufficiency. Compared to traditional grid-tied systems, integrated battery storage solutions offer higher electricity efficiency, especially in the context of increasingly volatile electricity prices.
Factors affecting installation costs:
– Solar power capacity (kWp) required
– Battery storage capacity (BESS) (kWh)
– Inverter type (grid-tied or hybrid inverter)
– Material quality & design standards
– Actual construction conditions
Estimated cost:
A combined solar power system with BESS 5 kWp + 10 kWh batteries has an average investment cost of 180 – 230 million VND, depending on configuration and equipment brand.
When should or shouldn’t you install a BESS battery pack?
When should you install the BESS storage battery?
– Frequent power outages or unstable power supply.
– High electricity consumption in the evenings and during peak hours.
– Desire for a more independent power source, reducing reliance on the grid.
– Businesses need a stable power supply for production.
– There are plans to develop green electricity – ESG.
When is it not necessary to install a battery pack?
– Electricity is primarily used during the day.
– The regional power grid is stable, with few power outages.
– The initial investment budget is limited.
=> In many cases, it is possible to install solar power first, then add BESS battery storage as demand increases.
The process for deploying BESS solar power and battery storage systems
A standard deployment process to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable system operation is as follows:
1. Load survey and assessment
2. Consulting on suitable solar power installation solutions
3. Technical design and selection of BESS battery storage
4. Construction and installation according to safety standards
5. Installation, commissioning, and acceptance testing
6. Operational guidance & periodic maintenance
The modern system allows real-time monitoring of power output, battery capacity, and operating status through a smart application.
Unify Energy – A pioneer in smart energy storage solutions
Choosing the right solar power system with BESS battery storage installation is crucial, directly impacting the operational efficiency, safety, and long-term return on investment of the entire system. This isn’t just a decision about equipment; it’s about selecting a partner to accompany you throughout the energy generation lifecycle.
A suboptimal design, substandard equipment, or improper construction can lead to rapid system degradation, unsatisfactory energy savings, and numerous operational risks. Therefore, investors should prioritize companies with in-depth technical expertise, practical experience, and well-structured implementation processes.
In this context, Unify Energy is known as one of the pioneering companies in Vietnam in the field of energy storage and smart energy solutions. With a focus on operational efficiency and sustainable value, Unify Energy provides integrated solutions including solar power, BESS battery storage, and modern monitoring systems, flexibly designed to meet specific needs. This helps customers optimize costs, increase energy self-sufficiency, and prepare for future development trends.
>> Watch Video: Unify Energy introduces its energy storage battery line at Vietnam Energy Week 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about BESS solar power and battery storage installation
❓Should you install a battery storage system if you only use it for your home?
→ Yes, especially if your family frequently experiences power outages, uses a lot of electricity at night, or wants to have a reliable power source. Battery storage helps accumulate electricity during the day for use at night, reducing dependence on the power grid.
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❓How much money can you save each month by installing solar panels combined with battery storage?
→ The amount saved depends on the system’s capacity and electricity usage habits. An average household can reduce their electricity bill by 30–70% each month. With an optimized Hybrid + BESS system, many families save 1–4 million VND/month, especially when using more electricity during peak hours.
❓What is the payback period for a solar power system + BESS?
→ On average, 5–7 years, depending on the scale of investment, electricity prices, and battery storage usage. Meanwhile, the system’s lifespan can reach 20–25 years, and high-quality batteries provide stable usage for 10–15 years.
❓How long does the electricity stored in a battery last?
→ It depends on the battery capacity (kWh) and electricity consumption. For example, a 5 kWh battery can provide basic household electricity for 4–6 hours. A 10–15 kWh battery can sustain electricity for the whole family overnight or during a prolonged power outage.
❓Are BESS storage batteries safe?
→ Yes, if genuine batteries (Lithium-ion, LFP) are used and installed correctly. Modern BESS systems integrate intelligent BMS protection, preventing overvoltage, overheating, and fire hazards, meeting international safety standards.
❓Is it possible to sell solar power back to the grid?
→ This depends on the policies in place. Currently, Vietnam is encouraging battery-storage systems (BESS) to stabilize the grid and reduce peak-hour overload. Several Feed-in Tariff (FiT) and Direct Project Approval (DPPA) mechanisms for storage systems are being promoted.
Conclusion
Installing solar power systems combined with BESS in Vietnam early on not only helps you save electricity and ensures a stable power supply, but is also a smart strategic move in investing in energy for the future. With policy trends moving towards increased electricity storage, this solution is becoming increasingly feasible and offers significant benefits both financially and environmentally.
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