Can Solar Panels Really Power My Whole Home?

Absolutely — if your solar system is properly sized and designed for your energy usage.

At BC Solar, we’ve helped many Columbus-area homeowners achieve full energy coverage using rooftop solar, and even more peace of mind by adding battery storage.

Here’s how it works:

How a Full-Home Solar Setup Works

Your home uses electricity 24/7. Solar panels only produce during the day — so to power your whole home, we factor in:

• Your yearly energy usage (kWh)

• Roof space and panel production capacity

• Seasonal variations in sunlight

• Whether you want batteries or not

A well-designed system will produce enough electricity to match your annual usage, with daily give-and-take:

• On sunny days, your panels may produce more than you use. That extra energy flows back to the grid, earning you credits (called net metering).

• On cloudy days or at night, your home draws power from the grid — or from a solar battery if you’ve installed one.

The Role of Batteries

Without batteries, your solar system shuts off during an outage — even if the sun’s shining. That’s because it’s tied to the grid.

But with a battery system (like the Sol-Ark setups we often install), you can:

• Run your essentials or your entire home when the grid goes down

• Store excess solar power during the day for nighttime use

• Avoid high peak-time utility rates (with advanced inverter control)

Many of our Columbus customers are choosing batteries not just for outages — but for independence and stability in uncertain times.

Real Talk: Is It Worth It?

If your goal is to power your home completely from the sun, it’s absolutely doable — and often cost-effective over time. Here's why:

• Federal tax credit (30%) plus Ohio incentives can cut upfront costs significantly

• Grid-tied solar + battery systems offer the most flexibility and protection

• Energy costs are rising, but the sun’s power stays free

When we design your system, we’ll show you exactly what you’ll produce, use, save, and return to the grid — no guesswork.

FAQ

How much can I save by installing solar panels in Columbus?

That depends on your usage, system size, and utility rates. Most homeowners save 50–100% on their electricity bill, especially with net metering and Ohio's solar tax credits.

Do I need batteries to power my whole home?

Not necessarily. If you're fine staying grid-tied, your panels and the grid work together. But if you want power during outages or to store your own solar, batteries are worth it.

What if I use more electricity in the winter?

Your system is designed to cover your annual usage. You may use more grid power in the winter and send more solar back to the grid in the summer — it balances out.

Want to know if your home can go fully solar? Let's take a look together — no pressure, just the facts.

📞 Call Brian and the BC Solar team at (614) 442-9700 or get started here.