When it comes to solar power, there are many factors to consider, one of the top being—how can solar energy be stored? After all, the power of the sun isn’t always available, which is why solar energy storage is such an important part of making this renewable resource a more viable option.
This ability to store solar energy is one of the reasons why less-sunny climates are seeing a rise in solar energy installation. For example, Idaho solar is currently on the rise because solar energy can stored in a variety of ways, making solar panel installation worth it almost anywhere.
But first, let’s talk about one of the most important forms of energy use and storage that states allow for residential and commercial properties operating off solar:
Net Metering

If you’re a homeowner considering solar energy, you’ve probably heard of net metering. But what exactly is it?
In short, net metering is a billing arrangement that allows you to offset the cost of your electric bill by generating your own renewable energy.
How Net Metering Works
Net metering is available in most states and works by crediting you for the excess electricity that your solar panels generate.
If a home is net-metered, the electricity meter will run in reverse to provide credit for when the home’s electricity use exceeds the system’s output during periods such as nighttime—this is one of the ways we can say solar panels work at night. The credits can be used to offset future electric bills or even sold back to your utility company.
The main benefit of net metering is that it allows you to offset the cost of installing solar panels by using the excess electricity that they generate. In other words, it can help you save money on your electric bill in the long run. And since most people use more electricity during the daytime—when solar panels are generating the most power—net metering can be especially beneficial for those who have time-of-use electricity rates.
In addition to saving money, net metering can also help you go green by offsetting your reliance on fossil fuels. And since solar panels have a relatively small carbon footprint, net-metered solar can significantly reduce your overall carbon emissions.
Battery Storage

Solar batteries—lithium ion batteries—work by storing solar energy in a battery so that it can be used later.
Solar batteries are charged by the sun during the day, and then they provide power at night or during a power outage.
Solar batteries can be used to power your home or business, and they’re becoming increasingly popular due to their improved technology and environmental friendliness.
Solar batteries are long lasting, which means that you will not have to replace them as often as you would traditional batteries.
Thermal Storage
Solar thermal storage systems store solar energy in the form of heat. This is done by means of various mediums such as water or molten salt. The heat stored in these mediums can then be used to generate electricity, power your home or business, or heat your water.
Solar thermal storage systems are becoming increasingly popular as they are more efficient and have a smaller environmental impact than traditional storage methods.
Solar batteries are a key part of solar thermal storage systems, as they store the energy that is converted into heat.
Solar batteries are long lasting and have a high storage capacity, making them ideal for solar thermal storage systems.
If you are considering a solar thermal storage system for your home or business, contact a solar battery specialist like ELIO Solar to find out more about the benefits of solar batteries.
Contact ELIO Solar

ELIO Solar are the solar panel installers you can rely on. We will work with you to find the perfect solar energy system for your budget and your needs.