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.