How Residential Solar and Battery Storage Can Change a Homeowner's Energy Use: An Illustrative Example

This post was originally published on 2023-12-07 and is kept here as published, lightly edited for accuracy.

This is a hypothetical, illustrative scenario, not an account of a specific, verified customer. Any outcomes described below are examples only -- actual results depend on usage, system size, and local rates, and cannot be promised in advance.

When it comes to reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills, residential solar and battery installation can be a meaningful change for homeowners. Here's an illustrative walkthrough of how that decision can play out.

Picture a homeowner tired of seeing energy bills climb during the summer months due to heavy air conditioning use. They explore alternative energy solutions and find that solar panels combined with a battery storage system could significantly reduce their dependence on the grid.

After consulting with a reputable solar energy company, the homeowner moves forward with the installation. A well-run project keeps disruption minimal, and within a matter of days the home is equipped with solar panels on the roof and a battery storage system.

With the installation complete, the homeowner can now harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for the home. Excess energy generated during the day is stored in the battery for use in the evening or on cloudy days.

A well-sized system can meaningfully reduce reliance on the grid. On sunny days, a home can be powered largely by its solar panels, lowering energy costs from the utility company.

A battery storage system can also let a homeowner draw on stored energy during peak hours when electricity rates are higher, which can further reduce overall energy costs. Exactly how much varies by home and utility, and is never guaranteed.

The scale of the savings from a solar and battery installation depends on reduced reliance on the grid and how effectively stored energy offsets peak-rate usage -- factors specific to each home.

Homeowners may also be able to take advantage of incentives and rebates for residential solar installations, which can make the initial investment more cost-effective over time; availability varies by state and changes over time, so ask a provider or a tax professional about what currently applies.

Beyond the financial considerations, switching to solar energy contributes to a greener, more sustainable future by reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and lowering a household's carbon footprint.

In short: a residential solar and battery installation can meaningfully change a household's energy consumption and costs while also benefiting the environment -- the specifics depend on the home.