The Night the Lights Went Out
Imagine you’re home on a stormy night, watching your favorite show and the washing machine is humming away, when suddenly – the power goes out. The TV screen goes black, the washing machine grinds to a halt, and you’re left in the dark, wondering when the electricity will come back on.
Now, imagine the same scenario, but this time you have a rooftop solar energy system with battery storage. When the neighborhood loses power, you’d be blissfully unaware, as your solar-plus-storage system keeps chugging along, powering your home without skipping a beat.
A common myth about solar power is that you can only count on it when the sun is shining. This simply isn’t true. While you do need sunshine to generate electricity with solar panels, a solar energy system paired with battery storage can provide power regardless of the weather or the time of day, without relying on the electric grid.
The Benefits of Solar-Plus-Storage
The benefits of a solar-plus-storage system are numerous. First and foremost, it provides you with a reliable source of backup power. When the grid goes down, whether due to a storm, a blackout, or any other reason, your solar batteries will kick in and keep your lights on, your appliances running, and your devices charged.
This isn’t just convenient – it can also be a lifesaver. Imagine if a extended power outage hit your area during a heatwave or a winter storm. Without a solar-plus-storage system, you’d be left without air conditioning or heating, potentially putting your health and safety at risk. But with a solar-plus-storage system, you’d be able to keep your home comfortable and your family safe.
Another major benefit of solar-plus-storage is the ability to store excess solar energy for use later. During the day, your solar panels will generate more electricity than you’re using in your home. With a battery storage system, you can store that excess energy and use it at night or on cloudy days when your solar panels aren’t producing as much. This can help you get the most out of your solar investment and reduce your reliance on the grid.
Finally, a solar-plus-storage system can also provide you with greater energy independence and control over your electricity costs. By generating your own power and storing it in batteries, you’re less vulnerable to fluctuations in electricity rates or disruptions in grid-supplied power. This can be especially beneficial if you live in an area with unreliable grid power or high electricity prices.
The Costs of Solar-Plus-Storage
Of course, the biggest drawback of a solar-plus-storage system is the upfront cost. A typical solar-plus-storage system for a residential home can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $35,000, depending on the size of the battery and other factors.
But it’s important to keep in mind that this cost can be offset by a number of incentives and savings. First, there’s the federal tax credit, which can provide a 26% credit on the total cost of the system. Some states also offer additional incentives for solar-plus-storage systems, which can further reduce the overall cost.
Additionally, by generating your own power and reducing your reliance on the grid, you can save on your monthly electricity bills. Over time, these savings can help offset the initial investment in a solar-plus-storage system.
To get a better idea of the potential costs and savings, it’s always a good idea to work with a qualified solar installer. They can assess your energy needs, provide a custom quote, and help you navigate the various incentives and financing options available.
Timing is Everything
Another key consideration when it comes to solar-plus-storage is timing. It’s generally easier and more cost-effective to install the solar panels and battery storage system at the same time, rather than trying to add the battery storage later.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the battery alone can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $22,000 if you decide to add it to an existing solar system. But if you install the solar panels and battery storage together, the overall cost can be lower.
So, if you’re in the market for a new solar energy system, it’s worth considering a solar-plus-storage setup from the start. That way, you can take advantage of the cost savings and ensure that your system is designed to work seamlessly together.
Of course, if you’ve already installed solar panels and are now interested in adding battery storage, that’s certainly an option as well. Your solar installer should be able to assess your existing system and determine the best way to integrate a battery storage component.
Choosing the Right Battery Storage System
When it comes to selecting a battery storage system, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is the size of the battery – you’ll want to choose a system that can provide enough power and energy storage to meet your household’s needs.
According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, the typical residential battery storage system ranges from 5 to 20 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of storage capacity. The size you choose will depend on factors like the size of your home, your energy usage patterns, and how much backup power you want to have on hand.
Another important consideration is the type of battery technology. The most common options are lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. Lead-acid batteries tend to be less expensive, but they also have a shorter lifespan and are generally less efficient. Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, are more expensive upfront but can last longer and are more efficient.
Your solar installer can help you weigh the pros and cons of different battery technologies and recommend the best option for your needs and budget.
Living Off the Grid (Sort of)
One of the most appealing aspects of a solar-plus-storage system is the sense of energy independence it can provide. When the grid goes down, you can continue to power your home without relying on the utility company. In a way, it’s like having your own mini power plant in your backyard.
According to Solar.com, you can technically use solar panels without a battery, but you’ll still be reliant on the grid. The solar panels will generate electricity during the day, but if the grid goes down, your system will shut off to prevent backfeeding power onto the lines and potentially harming utility workers.
With a solar-plus-storage system, however, your batteries will kick in and keep your home powered even when the grid is down. This can provide a sense of security and peace of mind, knowing that you have a reliable source of backup power at your fingertips.
Of course, you’ll still be connected to the grid in some capacity, as most solar-plus-storage systems are designed to work in tandem with the utility company. But the level of independence and control you’ll have over your energy supply can be truly empowering.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, whether a solar-plus-storage system is right for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your energy needs, your budget, and your personal preferences. But if you’re looking for a reliable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to power your home, it’s definitely worth considering.
At Solar A Systems Inc., we’ve helped countless homeowners across the country make the switch to solar-plus-storage. Our team of experienced solar installers can assess your energy needs, provide a customized quote, and guide you through the process of going solar with battery backup.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your energy future and say goodbye to those pesky power outages, give us a call or check out our website to learn more about our solar-plus-storage solutions. Your home (and your wallet) will thank you.
