As the UK transitions towards a greener, more sustainable future, electric infrared heating is becoming an increasingly popular solution for homes and businesses. However, concerns over electricity costs and grid dependency remain key considerations. This is where solar energy and battery storage come into play. By integrating infrared heating with renewable energy, homeowners can reduce running costs, cut carbon emissions, and enhance energy independence.

In this article, we’ll explore how solar panels and battery storage can work together to maximise the efficiency of electric infrared heating, making it a viable, low-carbon heating solution.

The Advantages of Combining Solar Power with Infrared Heating

1. Maximising Renewable Energy Use
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power electric infrared heaters. Since infrared heating is highly efficient—converting nearly 100% of the electricity into heat—this combination allows homeowners to make the most of their renewable energy.

Instead of drawing electricity from the grid, infrared panels can run directly on solar-generated power, or energy stored in a battery. Significantly lowering energy costs.

2. Reducing Energy Bills
Electric infrared heating is already more energy-efficient than traditional heating systems, but pairing it with solar power can further reduce costs. A typical 4kW solar PV system in the UK generates around 3,800 kWh of electricity per year, enough to cover a significant portion of a home’s heating needs.

A study by the Energy Saving Trust found that homes with solar PV could save between £150 to £400 ($200 to $540) per year on energy bills, depending on usage and system size.

3. Enhancing Self-Sufficiency with Battery Storage
One of the main challenges of solar energy is that generation doesn’t always align with heating demand. Infrared heating is often needed most in the evenings and during winter, when sunlight is less available.

This is where battery storage becomes essential. Home battery systems, such as Tesla Powerwall or GivEnergy batteries, store excess solar energy during the day, allowing homeowners to use it for heating later. This means:
– Less reliance on the grid during peak hours
– Maximised use of free solar electricity
– Lower energy costs and increased savings
– Using off peak tariffs to charge the battery

4. Lower Carbon Footprint
By using solar energy instead of grid electricity (which may still come from fossil fuels), homes can drastically cut their carbon emissions. Infrared heating is already more environmentally friendly than gas heating, and when powered by solar and batteries, it becomes a 100% renewable heating solution.

According to Carbon Trust, a gas boiler emits approximately 215g (0.5lbs) of CO₂ per kWh, while electric heating powered by solar and batteries can bring emissions close to zero when used with solar or wind power.


Practical Considerations for Installing Solar, Batteries, and Infrared Heating

1. System Sizing and Energy Demand
Before installing solar panels and battery storage, it’s important to assess:
– The heating demand of your home
– The size of the solar PV system required to generate enough electricity
– The battery capacity needed to store surplus energy for night time use

2. Smart Energy Management
Modern smart home systems can optimise the use of solar and battery storage by prioritising power for infrared heating when needed. Smart thermostats and automation tools can further improve efficiency.

3. Government Incentives and Grants
The UK government offers incentives for solar panels and battery storage, such as:
– Zero VAT on solar and battery installations (as of 2022)
– Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), allowing homeowners to sell excess solar energy back to the grid. Energy firms such as E-ON and Octopus are offering £0.16kWh ($0.20kWh) (As of March 2025)
These incentives can help offset the initial investment of switching to solar-powered infrared heating.

A Smart, Sustainable Heating Solution
By combining solar power, battery storage, and electric infrared heating, homeowners can dramatically cut energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and become more self-sufficient. This powerful trio ensures efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly heating all year round.

As the UK moves towards net-zero emissions, investing in a solar-powered infrared heating system is a forward-thinking step towards a greener and more cost-effective future.