Post #3028829 · Elektrine

2026-02-17 01:40 UTC

@atpfm@mastodon.social Enjoyed the segment about solar / battery / generator. Only thing I would dispute is John’s assertion that battery only does not make sense. It actually can, in a very specific circumstance - if you have very high peak electricity rates. While we did also get solar, the biggest impact during the winter is to completely avoid peak rate periods. We let the battery recharge from solar and even the grid during off-peak times. We’re near the Bay Area, and peak rates are about $.55 / kWh.

Replies (2)

@whophd@ioc.exchange 2026-02-17 03:24

@NailClippings@mastodon.social @atpfm@mastodon.social Truly, “how many batteries” is the only real decision — other than choosing a good installer (who can also do all the future work you may need, like EV upgrades) The correct answers include zero, 1, 2 and 3. They are still expensive enough to stop and 🤔 but it is NOT an obvious ruling out, until you get out the spreadsheet and see if you can sign up for wholesale “tariff” prices Without a battery, wholesale rates are insane. (Don’t do it!) WITH a battery, retail tariffs are a crying shame — money left on the table.

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@Eric_Neue@indieweb.social 2026-02-18 21:01

@NailClippings@mastodon.social @atpfm@mastodon.social I live in an apartment with a pretty sick, modern HVAC. Solar is obviously out of the question, but my power company has a plan where you can get midnight+ power at 15% of normal price, at the cost of double rate during waking hours. Been daydreaming about getting a battery for the HVAC and fridge, charging overnight, and bleeding the battery during the day. It's silly but we are of the type who does the silly things.

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