Methodology
How we judge quotes, incentives, and battery decisions
The goal is to help a buyer understand the tradeoff before signing, not to crown a universal winner.
Cost ranges
We compare installed cost per usable kWh, not just hardware price. Line items like gateway hardware, panel work, permits, and backup-load design are treated separately when possible.
Incentives
Incentive pages use primary sources when available: IRS, DSIRE, state agencies, utility program pages, and program operator pages. Every meaningful claim needs an effective date.
Brand fit
A battery can be good and still wrong for a buyer. We judge fit by usable capacity, continuous output, existing solar hardware, installer availability, service path, VPP options, and quote risk.
How we use manufacturer and installer input
If a manufacturer or installer answers our questions, that can sharpen the facts: warranty terms, chemistry, coupling, service coverage, or the mistakes their customers make most often. A reply is evidence. It is not a ranking boost, and it does not move a brand up a shortlist by itself.
What we do not do
We do not sell your quote to a panel of installers, and we do not let a partnership, a friendly contact, or a polished asset pack decide the verdict. If a smaller battery, a different brand, or no purchase at all is the better answer for your loads and your rates, that is what the page should say.