Curious about adding to my system. And a battery.

oldmako
oldmako Registered Users Posts: 33 ✭✭
in General Solar Power Topics #1
I added an 8,74 system last summer. 
19 REc Alpha Pure 460w panels. 
10813 production.   

The Projected offset was 81 percent, but I am achieving 90 since installation in August.  I live in Virginia Beach.    So far, I'm thrilled with it.  My last elec bill was under ten bucks and the one before under 20.      Looking forward, I am considering increasing the number of panels, and perhaps even a battery so I could add an EV to the driveway.

How many more panels would I need to make this feasible?   IOW, is it worth the additional expense?       Just spitballing here.   And thanks in advance for any input.

S
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  • oliviacarter
    oliviacarter Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
    #2
    Your current results look pretty solid, achieving around 90% offset compared to the projected 81% is impressive. Increasing panel count can definitely help if your consumption is expected to grow (especially if you're planning to add an EV later), but a battery also adds the benefit of backup power and better usage during peak hours.
    Before expanding, you might want to consider:
    Average monthly kWh usage including future EV charging
    How much roof/ground space you still have for panels
    Whether a battery will give you noticeable savings vs just more solar production
    Payback period after expansion
    Local net metering policies in your area
    Many people first calculate the expected load increase and then size the system based on that instead of just adding panels blindly. If you can share your monthly usage + current production after different seasons, it’ll be easier to estimate if expansion or a battery will give more value long-term.
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  • oldmako
    oldmako Registered Users Posts: 33 ✭✭
    edited December 2025 #3
    Many thanks for the reply!   Just fishing at this point but definitely planning on adding radiant elec heat to the master bath when that mess finally gets tackled, and perhaps an EV down the road.    System went in the last week of August, so too early to assess the overall impact and production.    The estimate had the largest shortfall in July with AC needs.  But, interestingly enough, the next "worse" months are Oct, Nov, and Dec.  Presumably for the increased cloud coverage.    Jan, Mar, April, May and June's needs are all estimated to be met by the panels.   Can't wait to see those bills.   My Nov bill was $9.94!    ;)
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