Solar + Storage System
An integrated installation combining solar panels with battery storage, allowing self-consumption of solar energy, time-of-use arbitrage, and backup power during outages.
Why It Matters
As net metering policies become less favorable, solar + storage is increasingly the optimal configuration. Battery costs have fallen 90% in the past decade.
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Related Terms
Battery Storage
A system that stores excess solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining, providing backup power during outages.
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.
DC-Coupled System
A battery configuration where the battery connects on the DC side of the solar system, sharing an inverter (hybrid inverter) with the panels. More efficient but requires compatible equipment.
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%.