Gather useful energy data
Collect at least 12 months of utility usage when possible, not just the bill amount. Note seasonal peaks, rate plans, outages, and planned loads such as an EV, heat pump, induction range, or workshop.
Separate kW from kWh
kW measures power at a moment; kWh measures energy over time. A battery can have enough stored energy for several hours but still lack the instantaneous power for every large appliance. Build an essential-load and whole-home load list.
Estimate solar within real constraints
Roof planes, shade, orientation, weather, setbacks, structure, and utility limits shape the array. Model conservative losses and avoid treating a production estimate as a guarantee.
Test backup scenarios
Ask how the design performs during a winter outage, after a cloudy day, and with different state-of-charge limits. Confirm which circuits are backed up and how load management works. Compare system types and start an assessment.
Apply this to your home
Answer a few questions and request system categories relevant to your project.
Start the relevant assessmentOr use the general system assessment →