Self-Consumption
The percentage of solar electricity that is consumed on-site by the household rather than exported to the grid. Without a battery: typically 25-40%. With a battery: 60-90%.
Why It Matters
Self-consumed solar offsets full retail-rate electricity. In net billing states, self-consumption is far more valuable than exports — making batteries essential for maximizing savings.
Related Terms
Net Metering
A billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. The excess power generated during the day offsets power consumed at night.
Net Billing
An export compensation mechanism where excess solar electricity sent to the grid is credited at a rate lower than the retail rate — typically wholesale, avoided cost, or a set export rate.
Battery Storage
A system that stores excess solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining, providing backup power during outages.