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Why Should You Get Backup Batteries Along with a Solar System?

Why Should You Get Backup Batteries Along with a Solar System?

In the present world, there is a growing trend of shifting towards solar energy for homeowners and businesses. However, it is likewise essential to note that, on its own, a solar system can’t meet your energy needs most effectively as long as you don’t add backup batteries with it.

Many of our customers at Advisor Solar have benefited from adding backup batteries to their energy systems, thus gaining more satisfaction and security, cutting their costs, and finally gaining complete freedom in energy use.

But what are those backup batteries, and why are they such a valuable addition to the solar system? Let’s go deeper into explaining why it is possible to consider this investment appropriate and worthwhile.

What Are Backup Batteries for Solar Systems?

Backup batteries, also called solar batteries, are energy devices that come in handy with solar panels and accumulate added electrical energy produced during a sunny day. The energy stored can be helpful when the solar panels are not generating enough power during the night, on cloudy days, or when the power is down.

A backup battery should be considered the energy supply reserved for you. While your solar panels capture the energy, the battery ensures that none goes to waste. Instead of using the grid for additional power, your battery supplies your house with stored solar electricity, thus maintaining efficiency.

Battery storage has the benefit of acting as a backup power source during an outage of conventional electricity and is critical in areas without connection to the power grid. (Solstice Solar)

Thus, adding a backup battery to your solar system will help increase energy independence, minimize electricity costs, and support preserving the environment by utilizing renewable energy sources to the fullest. (Battery Spotlight)

In conclusion, battery backup systems are an indispensable part of today’s solar power installations, offering dependability, financial efficiency, and a move toward self-sufficiency.

How Do Solar Batteries Work?

Solar batteries are vital components of the present-day solar power system to improve the efficiency and stability of the solar energy system by providing excess energy storage capacity.

Let’s break down how these powerful devices function:

  1. Storing Excess Energy
  2. Providing Power During Outages

1. Storing Excess Energy

During the day, your solar panels produce excess electricity compared to the electricity demand within your home. This surplus energy can be stored in a backup battery instead of being returned to the grid.

  • Efficient storage: The extra energy is stored in the battery for later use, such as at night or on a cloudy day.
  • Peak usage benefits: Take power from the stored energy during periods of high tariffs, which will reduce electricity expenses.
  • Maximize solar output: Ensure that no aspect of your solar panels’ production is wasted so you can fully benefit from them.
  • Self-sufficiency: Another way of reducing the dependency on the grid is to store renewable energy for constant demand.

2. Providing Power During Outages

The most crucial function of a backup battery is to provide standby electricity during power blackouts.

  • Seamless energy supply: When the grid is down, your battery automatically starts powering your lights, appliances, and devices.
  • Storm resilience: Backup batteries are more necessary for those living in regions that often experience storms or homes with frequent power outages.
  • Eco-friendly alternative: Unlike gas generators, batteries are quiet, produce no hazardous emissions, and need little or no maintenance.
  • Critical support: Maintain power to necessary appliances, like medical equipment or a refrigerator, during a blackout.

Solar batteries enhance solar panels’ efficiency and offer your house a reliable and clean energy source. At Advisor Solar, we offer premium backup batteries, which provide you with a dependable backup power solution in conjunction with your solar system.

4 Key Benefits of Adding Backup Batteries to Your Solar System

Installing a backup battery for a solar system is not merely an option for comfort, but it’s a wise decision that will improve resilience, reduce expense, and embrace sustainability.

Let’s explore four key benefits that make this investment worthwhile:

  1. Energy Independence and Reliability
  2. Savings from Reduced Reliance on the Grid
  3. Access to Stored Power During Nighttime or Cloudy Days
  4. Enhanced Sustainability by Fully Utilizing Renewable Energy

1. Energy Independence and Reliability

Have you ever wondered how a power cut might affect your day? Backup batteries provide a stable alternative for storing solar energy for future use.

  • Reduced grid reliance: You can store your energy, which reduces the effects of a grid failure or interruption.
  • Uninterrupted power: Backup batteries ensure a smooth power supply, ensuring that your home or business continues supplying electricity during outages.
  • Critical energy needs: It is also ideal for homes with devices such as air conditioning, refrigeration, or respiratory machines, as well as other businesses with unending power needs.
  • Storm preparedness: In areas where you frequently get severe weather scenarios, you will have backup batteries in case of power outages.

2. Savings from Reduced Reliance on the Grid

Do you worry about the increasing cost of electricity? Backup batteries make it easier to manage expenses since energy is drawn from the battery rather than from the grid.

  • Avoid peak rates: Use your stored energy when the utility rates are high in demand.
  • Lower utility bills: Depend more on your solar system than the costly grid electricity.
  • Long-term savings: In the long run, declining grid power usage can enable the owner to recover the battery cost.
  • Sell energy back to the grid: In places often faced with such extreme weather situations, you will keep standby batteries for cases of power blackouts.

3. Access to Stored Power During Nighttime or Cloudy Days

Solar panels require sunlight to produce electricity for your home. They can generate electricity only when the sun is up, but you and your family do not simply stop using electricity at sunset. Backup batteries guarantee the continuity of energy supply twenty-four hours a day.

  • Nighttime use: You can use stored solar energy at night to power your home, reducing the need for grid power.
  • Cloudy or rainy days: During such days with limited sunlight, backup batteries close the gap and provide energy without interruption.
  • Greater flexibility: Utilize energy when you require it most, not when there is ample sunlight.
  • Seasonal reliability: Batteries can adjust to fluctuating weather conditions, thus providing energy all year.

4. Enhanced Sustainability by Fully Utilizing Renewable Energy

Interested in getting the most out of your renewable solar energy solution? Backup batteries are what make this possible.

  • Reduce energy waste: Store it in batteries instead to prevent excess power from being returned to the grid.
  • Lower emissions: Backup batteries are comparatively quieter and do not emit fumes, unlike generators, which are considered cleaner.
  • Optimise renewable energy: Using stored solar energy can reduce reliance on fossil energy.
  • Contribute to sustainability goals: Purchasing backup batteries is also a strategic move to contribute toward using environmentally friendly power sources.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Solar Battery

Choosing the correct solar battery is essential to ensure the optimal productivity of the solar energy system. Considering the availability of different choices, you must consider factors that can shape and define your preferences to a certain extent.

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect solar battery for your home:

  1. Battery Capacity
  2. Battery Chemistry
  3. Cost and Incentives

1. Battery Capacity

How much energy is to be stored? Battery storage capacity refers to the quantity of electricity a battery can store, expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

  • Daily energy usage: Compare your household’s everyday energy usage. A home may need a battery and storage system of 10–15 kWh to power crucial appliances during blackouts.
  • Appliance priority: When deciding on battery size, determine which appliances—like Backup duration: Higher capacities offer more reserve electricity. It can be beneficial in regions where blackouts may last for many hours or where storms are frequent.
  • Expandable options: Some batteries allow for a modular expansion, meaning you can add more capacity as your energy demands increase.
  • As for lithium-ion batteries, they have round-trip efficiency ranging from 90% to 95%, thus excluding high losses during the processes of charging and discharging. (Battery Spotlight)

2. Battery Chemistry

Not all batteries are the same in performance, durability, or price.

  • Lithium-ion batteries: These are the most popular type because they have a high energy density, a long lifespan, and require little maintenance. They are also inexpensive and lightweight, suitable for residential applications and solar systems.
  • Lithium-ion solar batteries are long-lasting, have a life span of between 10 and 15 years, and can charge 2000 and 5000 times. (Battery Spotlight
  • Lead-acid batteries: They cost less than the other batteries; however, they are not very durable as they need replacement frequently. Hence, they are more appropriate for users with limited budgets or tasks with lower resource requirements.
  • New technologies: New battery types include saltwater and flow batteries, which are particularly useful because of their advantages, including low environmental impact and high resistance, but they have a relatively high cost.
  • As of 2019, solar energy accounted for 48% of Hawaii’s renewable primary energy consumption, compared to just 9% for the U.S. as a whole (Research Economic Analysis Division)
  • Installer recommendations: Consult with your solar installer, who will advise you on which battery chemistry to use based on your budget and energy requirements.

3. Cost and Incentives

Worried about the upfront cost? Solar batteries are an investment, but several factors can make them more affordable:

  • Initial cost: Costs are usually between $12,000 and $22,000, and the battery capacity, brand, and other characteristics determine this.
  • Incentives: Federal tax credits, such as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), can help reduce the initial cost by 30% or more. State-level rebates on systems and utility incentives may also result in additional savings.
  • Financing options: Some companies provide affordable payment solutions. Customers can pay for solar systems and related services in installments suitable for every company’s financial plan.

Capacity, chemistry, and cost are the key features to consider when selecting a solar battery. At Advisor Solar, we assist you in considering all these factors to give you the best solution to meet your energy needs. Ready to light up your home with confidence? Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more about your options!

Get Advisor Solar’s Backup Battery Solutions Today!

At Advisor Solar, we have extensive experience in providing backup battery systems that are safe, cost-effective, and, most importantly, work perfectly in delivering energy solutions for household and commercial use. We have gained our client’s trust by providing energy autonomy to them stress-free with more than 2000 installations.

Why Choose Advisor Solar?

  • Seamless Integration: Our backup batteries are designed to complement your solar system and work in perfect harmony.
  • Continuous Power: Get a constant power supply during a power blackout.
  • Flexible Financing: As for the payment options, we have several types to meet your financial capacity.
  • Expert Support: Our approach ensures that we assist you throughout the process, from consultation to installation.

FAQs

Yes, most solar panel systems can be connected to backup batteries. However, compatibility is always an issue, and it will depend on the inverter used and the system’s configuration. Ask a professional installer like Advisor Solar for confirmation.

The time depends upon the battery’s size and how much power you consume. Typically, a battery of size 10 kWh can operate essential devices such as lights, refrigerators, and chargers for 8 to 12 hours.

Lithium-ion batteries are the most used battery, with a life span of about 10 to 15 years. With appropriate care, these batteries may live even longer.

While these solar batteries help lessen individuals’ reliance on the grid, total freedom from it is still rare. However, this possibility also depends on the batteries’ capacity, energy requirement, and solar system size.