One of the HUGE "tricks" in not going 100% solar - you can do what is called a "grid tied" system - no batteries at ALL is the huge advantage. You sell power during the day (which is when the utilities need the most), and buy at night

slight disclaimer:
3 guys I used to work with 10 years ago own the company that makes a LOT of the inverters used in solar/wind power (the wind power on the BIG windmills). Other than Christmas cards, and the occasional hello, I have no interest in their company