Be prepared the next time the power goes out.
Install a solar battery or standby generator today!
Power outages are becoming more and more common throughout the United States, and homeowners and businesses across the country are seeking out backup power sources to protect them when the grid goes down. Installing a backup power source will give you peace of mind and help you keep essential appliances running during an outage. But you have two different options to choose from: a solar battery backup system or a generator. How do you decide which is right for you?
Let’s break down the differences between backup power from solar versus a generator to help you decide which is the best choice for your Arizona home or business.
SOLAR BATTERY SYSTEMS
Solar batteries are typically installed at homes and businesses that have solar panels. When installed as part of a residential or commercial solar energy system, the solar battery is charged by the solar panels and can be used as a power source when the sun goes down, during an outage, or to offset increased costs during peak demand periods. There are many benefits of roof solar panels paired with battery storage, but you don’t need to have solar panels in order to install a solar battery—solar batteries can also be connected to and charged by the electric grid.
A solar battery will cost more to install than a backup generator, and it won’t be able to provide endless power for your home or business. A fully charged solar battery can typically provide about 10-15 hours of power. But these energy storage systems also:
- DETECT POWER OUTAGES AUTOMATICALLY
- OFFER QUIET OPERATION
- REQUIRE ALMOST ZERO MAINTENANCE
- LOWER CARBON EMISSIONS WHEN PAIRED WITH SOLAR
- CAN HELP YOU AVOID PEAK DEMAND AND TIME-OF-USE CHARGES
- QUALIFY FOR SOLAR INCENTIVES
If you already have solar panels or are planning to install a solar array in the near future, a solar battery is likely a better choice than a generator.
BACKUP GENERATORS
Whole home standby generators are another popular option for backup power. These machines are installed at your home or business and connect to a gas line. When the power goes out, they generate electricity by burning natural gas or propane. Because they burn fossil fuels, generators are not a “clean” source of backup power, and you’ll have to pay for the fuel they use. They’re also louder, and require regular maintenance. But backup generators have plenty of benefits, too:
- MORE AFFORDABLE TO INSTALL THAN SOLAR BATTERIES
- CAN BE CONNECTED TO AN EXISTING GAS LINE
- PROVIDES POWER 24/7, AS LONG AS THERE IS FUEL TO RUN IT
- CAN SWITCH ON AUTOMATICALLY OR MANUALLY DURING AN OUTAGE
If you’re not planning to install solar panels any time soon and you are just looking for a backup power source to keep your home or business running during an unexpected outage, a generator is likely the best choice.
ENERGY SOLUTION PROVIDERS CAN HELP YOU DECIDE WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU
Energy Solution Providers is a trusted, local solar installer that has been serving homeowners and businesses in Avondale, Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and many other Arizona communities for over 22 years. We install top-rated backup power options, including Kohler generators, and can help you decide whether a generator or solar battery is the best fit for your needs. Solar batteries we install include:
- Duracell Power Center: Duracell solar batteries stand out for their strong backup capabilities, suitable for both residential and commercial solar systems, embodying Duracell's reputation for quality and reliability in battery storage.
- Enphase Energy Systems: Enphase battery products offer comprehensive solar solutions that combine advanced microinverter technology with leading solar batteries, optimizing electricity generation and storage.
- SimpliPhi Power Batteries: SimpliPhi solar batteries are versatile and efficient battery storage options, ideal for enhancing existing solar systems or replacing outdated batteries.
We can also help you find out whether your solar battery installation will qualify for any solar incentives. If you’re looking for the best solar company and incentives in Arizona, give Energy Solution Providers a call today.