Which Solar Setup Is Right for Your Home?

Thinking about solar? The first question isn't how many panels you need.

It's what you want solar to do for your home.

Maybe you're looking to bring down your electricity bill. Maybe you want backup when the power goes out. Or maybe you're ready to rely less on the grid altogether.

Different goals call for different setups.

There are three main options: off-grid, hybrid and on-grid.

1. Off-Grid

An off-grid setup is designed to operate independently from the electricity grid. Your solar panels generate power during the day, while batteries store energy for when you need it later.

Best for: Remote properties, areas with unreliable electricity, or homeowners who want complete energy independence.

Pros

• Works without the electricity grid
• Greater energy independence
• Stored battery power can be used at night

Cons

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires enough battery storage to meet your needs
• Needs careful planning for periods of low sunlight

2. Hybrid

A hybrid setup combines solar, batteries and the electricity grid. Your panels can power your home and charge the battery during the day, while stored energy or the grid can provide power when solar isn't enough.

Best for: Homeowners who want to lower their electricity bill while keeping backup power available.

Pros

• Reduces reliance on the grid
• Battery can provide backup during outages
• More flexibility in how you use your energy

Cons

• Higher upfront cost than on-grid
• Battery storage adds to the investment
• Still has some reliance on the grid

3. On-Grid

An on-grid setup connects your solar panels directly to the electricity grid, typically without battery storage. Your solar power can cover your home's daytime usage, while the grid supplies electricity when needed.

Best for: Homeowners who primarily want to reduce their electricity bill.

Pros

• Generally the lowest upfront cost
• Simpler system with fewer components
• Good way to reduce daytime electricity costs

Cons

• Typically won't provide power during a grid outage
• Remains dependent on the grid
• Less energy independence than hybrid or off-grid

So, Which One Makes Sense for You?

There isn't one setup that's right for every home.

Want energy independence? Off-grid.
Want lower bills and backup power? Hybrid.
Want to reduce your electricity bill? On-grid.

Once you've decided what you want from solar, the next step is figuring out how much you actually need.

Getting the Right Size for Your Home

Your electricity usage gives us a starting point, but it's not the whole picture. We also look at what you want to keep running, how much backup power you need, and how much of your home's electricity you want solar to cover.

From there, we can work out the right balance of solar panels, battery storage and inverter capacity for your home.

Because bigger isn't always better.

The best setup is one that's designed around the way you live.

Find the Right Solar Setup for Your Home

Not sure what that looks like for you? Our Solar Calculator gives you a starting point based on your electricity usage and preferences.

You'll get an estimate of the setup type, solar capacity, battery requirements and potential savings for your home.

See what could work for your home before you invest.