Solar, battery and VPP help for homeowners

Solar panels and home batteries can make sense for some homes and not others. The answer depends on your roof, location, usage, utility rate plan, interconnection rules and finances. An independent look at those factors can help you evaluate offers with more confidence.

What affects whether solar fits a home

Roof orientation, shading, age and condition.
How much electricity you use and when you use it.
Your utility's rate plan and rules for crediting solar exports.
Ownership options — cash purchase, loan, lease or power purchase agreement each carry different terms.
Available solar incentives, which change and have requirements.

Battery storage and backup power

A battery stores energy for later use. Depending on the system and setup, it may provide backup power during outages and add resilience, or shift energy use to lower-priced hours. Backup capability, capacity and which circuits are covered depend on how the system is designed and installed.

Solar + battery systems combine generation and storage. Some utilities and states offer battery rebates or utility battery programs; availability and terms vary.

Virtual power plants (VPPs)

Some utilities and companies run VPP programs that may compensate battery owners for sharing stored energy during times of high demand. Participation depends on your utility, location, equipment and program terms, which can affect how and when your battery is used. Not every household or battery qualifies.

Questions to ask any solar or battery provider

What assumptions are behind the production and savings estimates?
What happens if utility rates or export credits change?
Who owns the system, and what happens if I sell my home?
What warranties cover panels, inverters, batteries and workmanship?

How Wattie can help

Wattie helps you explore whether solar, batteries, or both may make sense for your home.
Wattie helps you understand quotes, rate plans, backup power and VPP options in plain language.
Wattie is not a solar installer or salesperson and does not guarantee production, savings or qualification.

Wattie provides general information and organization help. Always verify programs, rates and deadlines with official sources.

Meet Wattie