Three factors to consider before installing a home battery

Recent snow and ice storms that left millions without electricity highlighted the grid's fragility and the value of backup power. Even when the power is on, rising energy costs can feel unpredictable. Home battery storage systems—hard-wired into a home's electrical system—are attracting more interest where time-of-use pricing or reduced export credits make them more economical.

These systems typically run $10,000 to $20,000 or higher after installation and can offer instant switchover, partial or whole-home backup, and automated scheduling. The biggest savings often come when a battery is paired with solar panels. Batteries let homeowners store excess generation locally and use it during expensive hours, reducing reliance on the grid.

Where prices swing through the day—rates from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. can be more than double off-peak in places such as California and Texas—a battery lets you schedule when to draw from stored energy and when to use the grid. "For me, the battery isn't really about backup.

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