In recent years, hybrid solar power systems with attached battery banks have become incredibly popular, making up a much larger percentage of new installations than they did in the past. These types of systems can offer many benefits, including greater energy independence and backup power during outages. However, that doesn’t mean that these battery banks are right for everyone. Keep reading to learn a few signs that might indicate a battery bank isn’t right for you.
You Have Favorable Net Metering
Most cities offer net metering plans for solar users, but the terms can vary greatly. In some cities, the utility company only offers a percentage of the full value of the watts you send into the grid; then, when you need to use grid power, you pay full price like any other grid user would. Other cities offer more favorable terms, with 1:1 metering. This means that the grid essentially “banks” your watts for you, and you can pull out your stored watts at any time without being charged; you’re only charged if you pull more power from the grid than what you’ve stored.
If your city has favorable net metering terms, then a solar battery bank may offer limited benefits by comparison. However, if you’re only getting paid a small percentage for your watts, as compared to what you pay for using the grid, then it may be worth it to add a battery bank.
You Don’t Use a Lot of Energy at Night
Battery banks are most useful when you need to use energy but solar is not available—which, for most people, happens every night. However, if you don’t use a lot of power after sundown, then you may not get a lot of use out of the battery bank, and it won’t necessarily deliver the cost savings you were hoping for.
You Rarely Have Power Outages
Many solar users are frustrated to lose power when a grid outage happens during the day. Having a battery bank helps prevent this, and can be a big benefit for your household. However, if your grid is extremely reliable and rarely experiences power outages, then you likely aren’t all that concerned about the occasional loss of power. On the other hand, if you have a less reliable grid or you live somewhere that has regular rolling blackouts, then a battery bank would be a big perk.
If you decide a battery bank can offer a lot of benefits to your home, make sure you purchase a hybrid inverter that can connect batteries to it. On the other hand, if the above signs apply to you, you likely won’t experience much benefit from a battery bank, and you can purchase a Fronius grid-tie solar inverter instead of a hybrid model.
