Batteries are the biggest pain in the patoot I can imagine.
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Batteries are surely the biggest headache of any system that depends on them. Spending $10k that may only last 5-10 years takes a real commitment. While saying that, unless you live off grid the batteries could easily last 30 years. The life of a battery is how many deep cycles they go through and how you charge them. The less time they sit uncharged the better.
Batteries can often be rejuvenated if you have patience. The truth is that even if you are careful you can ruin your battery.
I have a large Solar or PV array, 12kw on the roof and there is simply no other way to economically use what I generate from the roof without batteries.
I don’t have to use the batteries because normally the utility company takes my excess during the day and gives it back to me at night. After some storm or other reason that the utility company can’t deliver I will be on my own, then the batteries help me to continue normal life. The generator will help but it is hard to sustain a lot of hours on a backup rated generator.
Thanks for all your rationale; it’s very thoughtful of you. Sounds like you have it pretty well figured out. All the best plus God’s blessings to you and yours.