Understanding Solar + Storage: Answers to Commonly Asked Questions About Solar PV and Battery Storage
This guide from Clean Energy Group (CEG) answers twelve of the most common questions surrounding solar+storage. Topics include the cost and value of a solar+storage system, the benefits of the system, and common factors to consider when designing and installing such a system. By addressing these questions, this guide aims to serve as a starting point for individuals and organizations interested in exploring solar+storage for their homes, businesses, and community facilities. The guide was produced under the Resilient Power Project, a joint project of CEG and the Meridian Institute, which work to accelerate the market development of resilient, clean energy solutions in low-income and underserved communities.
Solar+storage refers to the renewable source of energy consisting of a solar photovoltaics array connected to a battery storage system through one or more inverters. In order to determine the most asked questions about solar+storage, CEG asked nearly one hundred stakeholders what questions they had about this technology. 12 common questions are addressed in this guide. Several case studies are also included demonstrating the topics.
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CEG emphasizes the importance of installing solar+storage systems in low-income areas in order to provide these frontline communities with environmental, economic, and resilience benefits. The guide additionally highlights opportunities for funding in order to ensure a solar+storage system is accessible for all. |
The questions addressed in this guide relate to safety, cost, benefits, financing, batteries, lifetime, and other considerations of installing a solar+storage system. Of note, this guide includes a description of the factors that must be considered when designing a solar+storage system, which consist of physical and structural, permitting and interconnection, and financial considerations. The resilience and reliability of these systems are also compared and contrasted with fossil-fuel generators. Several questions were related to the financial viability of these systems. To address these concerns, the guide provides insight into the long-term payback of the system, the incentive programs and grants that are available to finance these projects, and the opportunities for implementing these programs in low-income communities.
Publication Date: October 2020
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