Optimisation of photovoltaic and battery systems from the prosumer-oriented total cost of ownership perspective

Background In the context of the German energy transition, the number of domestic households covering part of their electricity consumption from their own photovoltaic system is constantly increasing. Some even use battery storage systems to store excess power for later use, which increases the degree of self-sufficiency and, according to the providers of such systems, should yield financial advantages for the so-called prosumer. Methods We used the Prosumer-Oriented Total Cost of Ownership method to analyse the financial possibilities for prosumers under German market conditions, and thus determined the economically optimal solution for different domestic household sizes. In order to obtain realistic results, we applied real data covering the weather (relevant for the generation of electricity), consumption patterns, investment and operating costs, prices and revenues. If behavioural aspects are set aside and pre-requirements (e.g. sufficient roof space) are met, our model provides guidance for investors and policy-makers alike. Results and conclusions Our research shows that it is financially advantageous for all household sizes to operate the largest photovoltaic system possible for them (up to 10 kW(p)). By contrast, our results show that the investment in a battery storage system does not pay off even when government subsidies are taken into account. Regardless of the size of the selected battery storage system and all other influencing variables, the financial advantages of such a system do not materialise, although a battery storage system does substantially increase the self-sufficiency rate.