Can You Use Solar Panels Without Battery Storage?

The transition to renewable energy is currently a hot topic, and for good reason. Solar power is an incredibly attractive option for many businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs, but there is one question we hear often—can you use solar panels without battery storage? The answer is yes, but there’s a bit more to it. Read on to learn more.

Grid-Tied Solar Systems

Businesses that install solar panels without a battery storage system typically rely on a grid-tied solar power system. In this setup, your solar panels are connected to the utility grid. During the day, those solar panels generate electricity. If they produce more than your business uses, the excess power is sent back to the grid. Conversely, when your panels aren’t producing enough electricity—like at night—they can draw power from the grid.

Advantages of Grid-Tied Systems

A major advantage of grid-tied commercial solar panels is that they’re often less expensive than systems with battery storage. The reason for this is simple: you’re saving money by not buying batteries, which can be quite substantial. Furthermore, because you’re connected to the grid, you have a reliable source of power even when your panels aren’t producing electricity.

Disadvantages of Grid-Tied Systems

There are downsides to a grid-tied system. The most significant is that if the power grid goes down, your solar power system will automatically shut off. This is a safety measure designed to prevent any power your system generates from going back to the grid and potentially endangering the utility workers repairing the outage.

Battery Storage

Although a battery storage system increases the initial investment, it can provide significant benefits for your solar power system. With a battery system, excess power generated by your solar panels charges the batteries, providing a source of power when your panels aren’t producing electricity. This can help you achieve greater energy independence and ensure you still have power, even during grid outages.

Now that you know you can use solar panels without battery storage, weigh the benefits and drawbacks of grid-tied systems versus systems with battery storage. By understanding your options and working with a trusted solar provider, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business’s sustainability goals and budgetary requirements.