Learn: Energy Explained
Plain-English answers to the terms and numbers behind home energy.
kW or kWh? Net metering or feed-in tariff? Degradation or clipping? These quick-reference guides break down the concepts that appear on every solar, battery and EV quote — so you can read the numbers with confidence.
Free assessment
Compare solar quotes
Up to 3 no-obligation quotes from verified local installers.
Compare Solar QuotesTools
Try the calculators
Model your situation with transparent assumptions before you commit.
Read all
All Learn guides
In-depth, calculation-first content that levels up your knowledge.
What Is a Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)? Your Energy Unit Explained
The kWh is the unit on your electricity bill and battery specs. Here’s what it means in plain, practical terms.
kWp Explained: What Does “Kilowatt-Peak” Mean for Solar?
kWp is the headline "size" of a solar system. Here’s what it actually measures and why it’s not the whole story.
What Is Solar Self-Consumption (and Why It Matters)?
Self-consumption is the share of your solar you use yourself. It’s the single biggest driver of solar and battery value.
What Is a Feed-in Tariff (and Should You Chase It)?
The feed-in tariff is what you’re paid for exporting surplus solar. Here’s why it’s usually not the main prize.
Depth of Discharge (DoD): What It Means for Your Battery
Depth of discharge describes how much of a battery’s capacity you use per cycle — and it directly affects how long the battery lasts.
What Is Net Metering? Export, Feed-In & Billing Explained
Net metering is how solar households get paid for the energy they send to the grid. How it works, the rates you might receive, and the key rules.
What Is Solar Panel Degradation? The Rates Explained
Solar panels slowly lose output over time. What degradation actually is, the typical yearly figure, and why warranties cover it.
What Is Inverter Clipping? And Is It a Problem?
When solar output briefly exceeds inverter capacity, the excess is “clipped”. Why it happens, how much it costs you, and when it’s fine.
Watts, kW, kWp & kWh: Solar Units Finally Explained
Watts, kW, kWp and kWh sound similar but mean very different things. A plain-language guide to the units that run every solar decision.
Solar Irradiance Explained: Why Some Roofs Make More Power
Irradiance is the sunlight hitting a surface — the single biggest driver of solar output. How to read it, why it varies, and what it means for you.
How to Read a Solar Panel Spec Sheet
Power, efficiency, temperature coefficient, warranty — how to compare solar panels like a pro by reading the spec sheet correctly.
Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE): How to Compare Energy Sources Fairly
LCOE spreads all costs of an energy source over the energy it produces. A clear look at why solar keeps getting cheaper relative to fossil fuels.
Free assessment
Compare solar quotes
Up to 3 no-obligation quotes from verified local installers.