Solar panels can be used without batteries, especially when the electricity generated is directly consumed or fed into the grid. The use of batteries is not a requirement for the basic functioning of solar panels.

When solar panels are directly connected to the electrical grid, any excess electricity generated during peak sunlight hours can be fed back into the grid through a process called net metering. In this scenario, the electricity produced by the solar panels is used in real-time, and any surplus energy is credited to the user’s utility account. Conversely, when the solar panels do not generate enough electricity, the grid can supply the additional power needed.

In many grid-tied solar panel systems, the reliance on batteries is minimized, as the grid essentially acts as a virtual storage system. This setup allows for a more straightforward and cost-effective solar energy solution, especially in regions where net metering or feed-in tariff policies are in place, encouraging the integration of renewable energy sources.

However, batteries are commonly used in off-grid or standalone solar panel systems, where there is no access to the electrical grid. In these setups, the batteries store excess electricity generated during the day for use during the night or when there is insufficient sunlight. Off-grid solar systems typically require a battery bank to ensure a continuous power supply when solar energy is not available.

The decision to use or not use batteries in a solar panel system depends on factors such as the specific application, energy requirements, grid connectivity, and the availability of net metering or feed-in tariffs. Whether batteries are needed or not, solar panels remain a versatile and sustainable energy solution for a wide range of applications.