You would like to power as much of your life as you can with off-grid, emission-free solar energy.Where you live is prone to electrical outages or prolonged blackouts.You have high electricity costs, especially in an area with demand-based pricing. Solar storage may be worth it for you if: However, it can be hard to know if a solar battery is right for you, so we put together some guidelines to help you know where you stand. Solar batteries have become increasingly popular. As a result, many retail electricity providers don’t.) Are solar batteries worth it? (For inquiring Texans, net metering is available in your state, but there’s no law mandating that utility companies offer it. They said, ‘Oh, we don't buy your power back. “I did not even know that the power companies don't do a buyback policy here in Texas until after I had installed the system and I went to the power company. California gives the credits back, but I don't think Texas companies do give credits,” said Paul, a ConsumerAffairs reviewer from Texas. “I'm unable to take advantage of the power that I'm producing because of the way the power companies are structured here in Texas. In some cases, you may even be able to sell your solar electricity to the grid when the rates are at their highest to make extra money through net metering.Ĭalifornia’s new NEM 3.0 laws actually incentivize solar panel owners with battery storage to make the most out of time-of-use energy rates in this way, but it’s worth checking your local regulations before you buy a solar battery. When utility costs are at their peak, you can pivot your home’s energy consumption to run off of battery power rather than grid power, leveraging the electricity your solar panels generated when you need it most. Solar batteries can also save you money on utility power long-term. A solar battery purchase is also a great time to consider things like smart energy controls, an efficient electric vehicle (EV) charger or an electric panel upgrade. Bundle your solar battery purchaseīy installing a solar battery when you install your solar panels, you may be able to save by bundling the entire project through one installer rather than piecing together equipment from separate companies. You may also have state-, city- or utility-sponsored solar battery rebates or programs available in your area that can further reduce your upfront costs. The federal solar tax credit, now officially known as the Residential Clean Energy Credit, can be redeemed for solar battery storage purchases of at least 3 kilowatt-hours - potentially reducing your total investment costs by up to 30%. Take advantage of tax incentives, rebates and programs If you're planning to purchase one or more solar batteries, there are a few ways to save money on your purchase further down the road. » LEARN: How solar energy is stored How to save money on solar batteries “The kit will power my whole house, and it has a battery backup too.” It's been a chore, but it's fine,” reported Peter, a ConsumerAffairs Labor costs can vary heavily for solar battery installations, especially if you're in an area that doesn't have many qualified contractors or companies for the job.Īlthough solar battery installations typically only take professionals less than half a day, some DIYers choose to save on installation costs with a bit of sweat equity.
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