Home energy storage

Home energy storage keeps energy at a residence for later use, most commonly by storing electricity in batteries charged from the grid or rooftop solar panels.

Connect

Lithium-ion battery: A rechargeable battery that moves lithium ions between electrodes to store and release electrical energy. Most residential battery systems use this chemistry for its high energy density and efficiency.
Solar self-consumption: The use of locally generated solar electricity at the place where it is produced. A battery shifts surplus daytime rooftop generation to evening household use.
Photovoltaic system: A system that converts sunlight directly into electricity using photovoltaic cells. Rooftop solar is a common source for charging residential batteries.
Lead–acid battery: A rechargeable battery that uses lead electrodes and a sulfuric acid electrolyte. It is a lower-cost, heavier alternative to lithium-ion storage, often with shorter cycle life.
Battery management system: Electronics that monitor and control a battery’s cells, temperatures, and operating limits. It protects a home battery from unsafe charging, excessive discharge, and cell imbalance.
Backup power: Electricity supplied by an alternative source when the usual supply is unavailable. Stored energy can keep selected household loads running during grid outages.
Electrical grid: An interconnected network that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity. Most home batteries operate alongside the grid and may charge from it.
Flow battery: A rechargeable battery that stores energy in liquid electrolytes held in external tanks. Its architecture suits long-duration storage but is less common in homes than compact battery packs.
Battery inverter: An electronic device that converts electricity between direct current and alternating current. It connects battery output to household circuits and coordinates charging from solar or grid power.
Time-of-use pricing: Electricity pricing that varies according to the time it is consumed. A battery can charge during cheaper periods and discharge when electricity costs more.