Batteries vs. Generators: How to Prepare for the Unexpected
Rolling blackouts and unexpected power outages are very real concerns with serious consequences. When the power goes out, how will you protect your food, keep your home warm or stay connected to the internet for updates? For those who run a business, power outages can lead to massive revenue losses and decreased productivity. It’s important to consider the options you have for staying powered when the grid goes dark.
Energy Storage
The first option we’re going to discuss is energy storage. Home battery systems provide a great opportunity for households to better utilize their solar energy system’s production, save money, and protect against grid outages. When paired with solar, energy storage is charged during the day while your solar is actively producing energy. That stored energy can then be used for several different reasons depending on your current needs. Batteries can be programmed by solar specialists to kick on during different circumstances, such as power outages or during peak time-of-use rates.
One of the greatest benefits of installing energy storage is the savings associated with it. By using your energy storage to combat expensive time-of-use rates, you can save money and gain independence from the utility. Not only that, when paired with solar you can generate credits for the excess solar energy produced by your system. Another benefit or energy storage is the peace of mind associated with the backup capabilities of energy storage. Energy storage is charged from the excess energy produced by your solar array. Once needed, if the grid is down, you will have a fully charged battery ready to power your home or business, keeping you independent of the utility grid issues. Because Energy storage is powered by solar and not by natural gas, you can stay powered at no cost to you.
Energy Storage Options from SolarTech
SolarTech offers storage options to fit your lifestyle. We carry SunPower SunVault, NeoVolta & Tesla Powerwall. Each storage option has unique features that will work for your home or business depending on your lifestyle needs. For instance, investing in the SunPower SunVault is a great choice for energy storage and its unlimited cycle warranty speaks for itself. Speak with a solar analyst today to find the best fit for you. Learn More
Generators
Generators connect directly to your home’s electrical panel and kick on when the power goes down. With very one-dimensional uses, generators only serve as standby systems kicking in when you need them. They can’t supplement energy use during on-peak time-of-use rates and they can’t be powered by solar energy. Most generators are powered by either gas or propane, a far less sustainable and more costly long-term fuel than solar.
Another deterrent of generators is noise pollution. Generators tend to be very loud and noisy. In order to maintain a generator, most manufacturers direct users to service them with a monthly startup schedule. That means more monthly noise for you and your neighbors at your home or business.
Which is best for you?
If you’re looking for the most cost-effective and reliable option for powering your home and staying charged during blackouts, home battery systems are the way to go. The savings that you’ll receive from your home battery system will far outweigh what you might initially save by going with a generator.
Generators are quick fixes that lead to pricy futures, with steep operational costs. As utility rates and natural gas prices rise, investing in a generator is more of a quick fix rather than a lasting and affordable investment.
Energy storage allows businesses or homeowners to protect themselves from blackouts, save money on expensive time-of-use rates and keep their solar running, even when the grid is down. If you have ever experienced a blackout or grid shutdown, then you know how crucial backup energy is. For businesses, every minute without power is money down the drain and for homeowners, every minute without energy is food wasting away. Investing in energy storage is the only way to protect you, your family, and your business from unexpected power loss.
Invest in Energy Storage with SolarTech
SolarTech has been in the business for over 20 years, and we are fully prepared to help you become energy independent with energy storage. Stop relying on the utility for your energy and begin storing your own. SolarTech is here to help keep your home or business safe from blackouts while saving you money on your utilities.
If you are interested in adding energy storage to your home or business, speak with a SolarTech professional today. Call (619) 743-9193 and visit www.solartechonline.com/free-solar-quote to request a free energy storage quote today! Gain energy independence with SolarTech today!
