Solar battery storage is a technology that allows you to store excess solar energy generated by your rooftop panels for later use when the sun is not shining. Solar battery storage can provide many benefits for homeowners who want to reduce their reliance on the grid, save money on electricity bills, and increase their energy security and independence.
One of the main benefits of solar battery storage is that it can provide backup power during grid outages. When the grid goes down due to storms, accidents, or maintenance, your solar panels alone cannot power your home because they need to be connected to the grid for safety reasons. However, if you have a solar battery storage system, you can use the stored energy to keep your appliances running for hours or even days without interruption.
Another benefit of solar battery storage is that it can help you optimize your electricity usage and costs. Depending on your utility’s rate structure, you may pay different prices for electricity at different times of the day. For example, some utilities charge more for electricity during peak hours when demand is high and less during off-peak hours when demand is low. With solar battery storage, you can store excess solar energy during off-peak hours when electricity is cheap and use it during peak hours when electricity is expensive. This way, you can avoid paying high rates and save money on your bills.
Some utilities also offer incentives for customers who have solar battery storage systems. For example, some utilities may pay you for providing excess energy back to the grid when they need it or for reducing your demand during peak periods. These incentives can further lower your electricity costs and increase your return on investment.
Solar battery storage also allows you to monitor and control your energy production and consumption more easily. With a smart device or app, you can track how much solar energy you are generating and storing, how much electricity you are using from the grid or from your battery, and how much money you are saving or earning. You can also adjust your settings and preferences to optimize your system’s performance and efficiency.
Finally, solar battery storage can help you achieve more energy self-sufficiency and reduce your environmental impact. By storing and using more of your own solar energy instead of relying on fossil-fuel-based power from the grid, you can lower your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. You can also contribute to a cleaner and more resilient energy system by supporting renewable energy sources.
Solar battery storage systems vary in size, capacity, price, and features depending on your needs and preferences. The average cost of a residential solar-plus-storage system ranges from $25,000 to $35,000, but it may vary depending on factors such as location, incentives, installation, and maintenance. If you already have a rooftop solar system installed, you can add a battery later, but it may cost more than installing both at once. The typical lifespan of a solar battery is 10 years, but it may depend on how often and how deeply you discharge and recharge it.
If you are interested in getting a solar-plus-storage system for your home, you should do some research and compare different options and providers. You should also consult with an energy advisor or installer to get an estimate and assessment of your specific situation and needs. Solar-plus-storage systems are becoming more affordable and accessible as technology improves and demand grows. They offer many advantages for homeowners who want to harness the power of the sun and enjoy greater energy freedom and savings.
