Generators vs. Solar Backup Batteries: Which is the Better?
Generators vs. Solar Backup Batteries: Which is the Better?
Viridis EnergyGenerators vs. Solar Backup Batteries: Which is the Better?
A properly designed solar system can provide the majority of a homeowner's electricity needs, but there may be times when additional power is needed from the grid. While some energy providers offer net metering to offset the cost of electricity drawn from the local utility, not all solar homeowners have this option. Having a backup power source can provide peace of mind during power outages and offer cost savings.
Emergencies such as storms and blackouts can happen at any time, and it's important to be prepared. Most homes with solar systems are connected to the grid, meaning they lose power during an outage to ensure the safety of utility workers. Having a backup power source, whether it be a generator or a solar battery, can ensure that essential pieces of your home continue running like refrigerators, well pumps, heat, and even the internet.
When comparing backup power options, there are several factors to consider:
Size
Whole-house generators are larger than portable models, roughly the size of an HVAC unit.
SunPower’s solution, the SunVault, comes in two sleek, aesthetically pleasing boxes – the SunVault battery and the Hub+. Typically located in a utility room or garage, the larger box is thinner and smaller than a refrigerator and stores excess energy not used throughout the day. The smaller box features intelligent software that gives homeowners the option to control when and how their stored solar energy is used.
Winner: SunPower SunVault Solar Battery
Noise
Generators can be extremely loud. Imagine having a motorcycle running right outside your door for hours on end.
Solar batteries are virtually silent and make zero noise.
Winner: SunPower SunVault Solar Battery
Fuel
Generators run on expensive fossil fuels like natural gas, gasoline or liquid propane which cost a lot of money.
Solar batteries run on FREE stored solar energy from the sun while reducing your carbon footprint at the same time.
Winner: SunPower SunVault Solar Battery
Cost
Generators can range from $2,000 to $30,000, with ongoing maintenance and fuel costs.
Solar batteries have NO maintenance costs and run on unlimited sunlight, and may also be eligible for government incentives. These incentives can essentially pay for the cost of your battery over the span of 5 years.
A SunPower Equinox home solar system with SunVault Storage offers additional benefits such as cost savings through optimized energy usage and a single warranty covering both the solar and storage components.
Winner: SunPower SunVault Solar Battery
Viridis Energy - The Solar Experts
More now than ever before, homeowners are looking for home battery backup to keep their power on during power outages. Power outages are simply part of our world these days. From rolling blackouts to storms to simply spending more time at home—be the house on the block where the lights shine bright and the electric bills drop.
Batteries for solar energy storage are evolving rapidly and becoming mainstream as the transition to renewable energy accelerates
Viridis Energy is an award winning residential and commercial solar provider based out of Boston, MA. We are the leading SunPower dealer and installer in Massachusetts. Reach out to Viridis Energy to set up your no cost analysis with a professional solar consultant today.
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