AC Battery
A battery storage system with a built-in inverter that connects to the home AC electrical panel. Can be added to any existing solar system without modifying the solar inverter.
Why It Matters
AC batteries (like Enphase IQ, Tesla Powerwall) are the easiest retrofit. They work with any solar system brand, simplifying the choice when adding storage years after solar installation.
Related Terms
AC-Coupled System
A battery configuration where the battery has its own inverter and connects on the AC side of the electrical panel. Allows adding a battery to an existing solar installation without replacing the solar inverter.
All-in-One Battery System
An integrated home battery product combining battery cells, inverter, charge controller, and battery management system in a single enclosure. Examples: Tesla Powerwall, Enphase IQ Battery, SonnenCore.
Battery Storage
A system that stores excess solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining, providing backup power during outages.