For most residential customers who are part of the NEM 2.0 program, battery storage primarily serves as an emergency backup power source.
The reason is that even discharging power during the most expensive times of the day does not offset the cost of the battery and equipment.
For example, if a solar panel system sends back 10 kWh to PG&E for retail credit under NEM 2.0, that equates to $6 in credit.
However, if that power is stored in a battery instead, the $6 credit is lost. Additionally, during peak times, the solar panel system is still producing power, making it more cost-effective to reduce consumption where possible.
Battery storage can be valuable in areas with frequent outages, but for most customers, it’s an expensive insurance policy, especially considering that most batteries store around 10 kWh, which is enough to power only a few essentials for 8-10 hours.
In contrast, battery storage in the NEM 3.0 world makes a lot more financial sense. However, it’s still not a ‘no-brainer’ due to the associated costs. With our solar proposals, we often recommend starting with a solar-only system since battery storage can be added later as needed.
The dream of "I never want to see another electricity bill" is less achievable because even with battery storage, there isn’t enough solar power generated during winter months to completely offset electricity usage. Batteries don’t create power; they store excess solar power for use during peak electricity times or at night when the sun isn’t shining. While battery costs are still high, they are gradually decreasing due to reduced equipment and installation costs.
Overall, the decision to invest in battery storage depends on your specific energy needs, the reliability of your grid, and your financial situation. While it’s a more compelling option under NEM 3.0, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits and costs before making a decision.
We start by thoroughly assessing your energy needs and property to design the perfect solar solution for you. Our team will provide a customized proposal detailing system design, costs, and potential savings, tailored to your specific goals.
Once you approve the proposal, we meticulously design your solar system, selecting the best components for optimal performance. Our skilled installers then ensure a seamless installation process, so your system is up and running quickly.
After installation, we handle all necessary inspections to ensure your system meets the highest standards. Once activated, you'll start generating clean energy, and we’ll provide tools to monitor your system’s performance and savings in real-time.
Solar battery storage systems store excess energy generated by your solar panels during the day for use when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night or during power outages. The stored energy can power your home or business, reducing reliance on the grid and maximizing your solar investment. The system works by converting and storing solar energy as electricity in a battery, which can then be used when needed.
Adding a battery storage system provides energy security and resilience, especially during power outages. It allows you to store excess solar energy for later use, reduce peak-time energy costs, and increase your independence from the utility grid. With California's frequent wildfires and power shutdowns, battery storage is a practical solution for maintaining consistent energy supply.
California offers several incentives for solar battery storage systems, including the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP), which provides rebates for both residential and commercial battery installations. Additionally, you may qualify for the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which offers a 30% tax credit for solar and battery installations. Some local programs and utility companies also offer additional rebates.
The duration a solar battery can power your home during an outage depends on the size of the battery and your household’s energy consumption. Typically, a standard residential battery like the Tesla Powerwall 3 can power essential appliances for several hours to a full day. Larger or multiple batteries can extend this time, especially if you conserve energy during the outage.
While it is technically possible to go off-grid with a solar battery system, it requires a substantial investment in both solar panels and battery capacity. Most homeowners choose to remain connected to the grid as a backup. Going completely off-grid would require a large enough battery system to store sufficient energy to cover periods of low sunlight, such as during winter or extended cloudy days.
The most common types of solar batteries are lithium-ion and lead-acid. Lithium-ion batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall, are popular for residential use due to their longer lifespan, higher efficiency, and compact size. Lead-acid batteries are generally less expensive but larger, with a shorter lifespan and lower efficiency.
The right battery size depends on your energy usage, the amount of solar energy your system generates, and your backup power needs. A professional installer can perform a detailed analysis of your energy consumption patterns and recommend a battery size that matches your needs. Smaller batteries might be sufficient for essential backup power, while larger systems can provide more extended coverage or even help reduce demand charges for businesses.
Solar batteries typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, depending on the type and usage. Lithium-ion batteries tend to last longer and are more efficient compared to lead-acid batteries. Regular maintenance and proper usage can help extend the life of your battery system.
Once your solar battery is fully charged, any excess energy generated by your solar panels is typically sent back to the grid, where you may receive credits on your electricity bill through California’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) program. Some systems may also have options to divert excess energy to non-essential loads or manage power usage to maximize efficiency.
Yes, most existing solar systems can be retrofitted with battery storage. The process involves integrating the battery with your current solar inverter or adding a separate battery inverter. A qualified solar installer can assess your system and recommend the best battery options for your setup.
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