Benefits of Solar Batteries Over Backup Generators

There are several major benefits that come with making the move to solar power generation, and one of these is related to power storage rather than actual creation of power: The use of battery-powered solar energy storage. Such an approach to energy storage is preferable to a traditional backup power generator in several ways for most clients.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to offer a combination of high-quality solar power and great battery storage, primarily through installation of the Tesla Powerwall battery backup system. What are some of the key areas where a solar battery backup is superior to a more traditional backup power generator for your backup power needs? Here's a rundown.

The Environment

Naturally, given that environmental benefits are a key part of the entire solar power enterprise, it's no surprise that solar batteries have a big leg up in this department over backup generators. Solar batteries are completely emissions-free, while backup generators tend to be gas-powered and produce harmful emissions as a result. If you're looking to do your part for the environment while also ensuring that you have backup power available when you need it, solar batteries are the way to go.

For instance, the Tesla Powerwall is composed of lithium-ion batteries, which are not only completely emissions-free but have one of the lowest carbon footprints of any battery type currently on the market.

Safety Themes

Solar battery backups utilize a combination of battery storage and an inverter, which helps to ensure that the power provided is at a consistent, safe level regardless of conditions. This is in contrast to backup generators, which can pose safety hazards both in terms of the fuel they use and the power they generate.

Solar batteries tend to be much safer than backup generators for a few reasons. First, as we mentioned, the power provided by batteries is more consistent and thus less likely to cause damage to sensitive electronics or pose a shock hazard. Second, solar batteries don't use any flammable fuels, so there's no risk of fire or explosion associated with their operation. Finally, battery backups are typically installed indoors, while generators must be kept outdoors (and away from windows and doors) to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Cost

While the initial cost of a solar battery backup system may be higher than that of a generator, solar batteries offer a number of advantages in terms of long-term costs. First, as we mentioned, solar batteries don't use any fuel, so you'll never have to worry about buying gas or diesel to keep them running. Second, solar batteries require very little maintenance once they're installed, while generators must be regularly serviced and maintained in order to continue running properly.

Finally, it's worth noting that the cost of solar power has been dropping steadily for years, while the cost of traditional fuels has remained relatively stable. This trend is only likely to continue as solar technology continues to improve, making solar battery backups an increasingly cost-effective option for backup power.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Down related lines, it simply takes far less work to keep a solar battery backup system running than it does a generator. Solar batteries have no moving parts and require very little maintenance beyond the occasional software update, while generators must be regularly serviced and maintained in order to continue running properly. This difference can mean big savings in terms of both time and money over the long run.

For instance, a generator might need to have its oil changed every 100 hours of use or so, while a solar battery might only need to be updated once every few years. Similarly, a generator might need to be regularly tuned up by a qualified technician, while a solar battery can typically be maintained by the homeowner themselves.

Installation Needs

Most power generators have a few specific installation requirements that can make the process somewhat complicated and time-consuming. For instance, many generators must be installed outdoors away from windows and doors to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, while others must be hardwired into your home's electrical system by a qualified electrician. Down similar lines, many generators require laying a specific foundation just for the generator to sit on.

Solar batteries, on the other hand, are typically much easier to install. Most can be installed indoors (away from windows and doors) and don't require any special foundation or wiring. As a result, solar batteries tend to be much less expensive and time-consuming to install than generators.

Performance

Finally, we know you care about the actual storage capabilities and power output of the battery backup system you choose. This is yet another area where solar batteries have a clear advantage over generators.

Solar batteries are designed to provide consistent, reliable power for long periods of time - even when the grid goes down. This is in contrast to backup generators, which can only provide power for as long as they have fuel. As a result, solar batteries tend to be much more effective at providing backup power during extended outages.

Solar batteries also have a higher capacity than traditional generators, meaning they can store more power and provide it for longer periods of time. This is due to the fact that solar batteries are typically charged by the sun, which is an infinite source of energy, while backup generators must rely on finite fuel sources.

For more on why a solar battery backup is generally preferable to a traditional power generator, or to learn about any of our solar panel installation services, speak to the team at Intermountain Wind & Solar today.