When The Grid Takes a Nap, Your Solar Shouldn't

Why More New England Homeowners Are Adding Batteries to Their Solar Systems

As solar adoption grows across New England, more homeowners are looking beyond just panels and considering battery storage as part of their energy systems. In states like New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts, the addition of a home battery is quickly becoming a smart and strategic choice for solar customers. But what exactly are the benefits, drawbacks, and local considerations of adding a battery to your solar setup?

Who has solar but no battery storage system?

• We have Solar but no Battery Storage System
• We dont have solar or batteries
• We have BOTH!

Why Batteries Matter in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s energy challenges are unique — especially in rural areas where grid infrastructure can be less reliable and winter storms can lead to prolonged outages. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), New England experiences some of the highest outage durations in the country, and this is felt strongly in northern and rural parts of New Hampshire.

A battery allows homeowners to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it later — particularly helpful during outages or in the evenings when solar production drops. In New Hampshire, where many homes are more spread out and grid maintenance can be delayed, this resilience is a major advantage.

The Pros of Battery Storage

• Backup Power During Outages: When the grid goes down, a battery can automatically keep your lights, fridge, and other critical appliances running.

• Energy Independence: Batteries reduce your reliance on the grid, giving you more control over your energy use.

• Time-of-Use Flexibility: While not as common in NH as in MA, as TOU rates expand, batteries can help offset usage during expensive peak periods.

• Maximized Solar Usage: Rather than sending excess solar energy back to the grid, a battery allows you to store and use it later.

The Cons to Consider

• Upfront Cost: Batteries can add $10,000 or more to the cost of a solar system, depending on the size and brand. However, at SunFlower, we work with a range of trusted battery manufacturers to offer flexible solutions at different price points. We also offer exclusive discounts on batteries when paired with a solar PV system, making energy storage more accessible and cost-effective for our customers.

• Lifespan and Maintenance: Lithium-ion batteries generally last 10–15 years and require eventual replacement.

• Limited Backup Duration: A single battery may not power your whole home during extended outages, so planning around essential circuits is important.

How Batteries Affect Net Metering in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers net metering for solar customers, allowing them to earn credits for the electricity they send back to the grid. Battery systems can participate in net metering as long as they are installed in compliance with utility regulations. These rules typically require that only solar-generated energy — not stored grid electricity — be exported.

SunFlower ensures all battery systems are configured properly to meet these requirements. This means you can still benefit from net metering while also increasing your energy independence with storage. Additionally, NH homeowners don’t have to worry about solar-specific demand charges or restrictive compensation models that are found in some other states. This makes battery storage a flexible and forward-thinking option for those looking to improve their energy security.

Final Thoughts

For many New Hampshire homeowners, batteries offer peace of mind, energy savings, and a greater sense of control — especially during stormy winters or when outages are a concern. While they may not be necessary for every solar project, batteries are becoming an increasingly valuable piece of the puzzle as our grid infrastructure ages and energy patterns shift.

If you're considering solar or already have a proposal in hand, reach out to the SunFlower team. We're happy to walk you through whether a battery makes sense for your home and your goals.