How Solar + Storage Keeps You Powered When the Grid Is Down

There are a few major reasons why more and more people are installing solar power setups in their homes today, and one that's always high on this list is the need to stay powered even when the electrical grid is down. For the most effective possible setup here, you need both solar panels themselves and a solar battery backup system.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer not just a wide variety of solar panel installation services around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, but also solar battery backup solutions to ensure your solar energy is stored for use at important times - such as when the grid is down. Here's how a solar plus solar battery backup system keeps you powered no matter what is going on with your local electrical infrastructure.

Solar Panels and Excess Energy

For those just learning about how solar panels work, they are designed to absorb energy from sunlight and convert it into electricity. During peak daylight hours, a solar panel system can generate more electricity than is needed for your home or business.

This excess energy doesn't need to be wasted, however. It can be stored using a solar battery backup system. These batteries store the excess energy for later use, such as during nighttime or on cloudy days when there is less sunlight available. This allows you to depend less on traditional electricity from the grid and rely more on clean, renewable energy from the sun.

Benefits of Solar Battery Backup

There are many benefits to having a solar battery backup system integrated with your solar panel system. One of the main benefits is increased energy independence. With a solar battery backup, you can reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources, which are often subject to power outages and fluctuations in prices.

Having a backup source of energy also provides peace of mind in case of emergencies or natural disasters. In situations where there is a power outage, your home can continue to run on stored solar energy, keeping you and your family safe and comfortable.

Another benefit of a solar battery backup is the potential for cost savings. By storing excess solar energy during peak production times, such as sunny days, you can use that stored energy during high demand periods when electricity prices are typically higher. This can result in significant savings on your monthly electricity bill.

Furthermore, using a solar battery backup system can also contribute to a more sustainable future. By relying less on traditional electricity sources and utilizing clean, renewable energy from the sun, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

Real-Life Scenarios Where Solar Battery Backups Add Value

There are a few common examples of how solar battery backups can add value to your daily life:

• During power outages: Solar battery backups can provide a reliable source of electricity during power outages, allowing you to continue using essential appliances and devices. During storms, for instance, power outages can occur and last for extended periods of time. Having a solar battery backup can ensure that you have electricity when you need it most.
• Off-grid living: For those who live in remote areas or off-grid homes, solar battery backups can provide a consistent and renewable energy source.
• Time-of-use rates: In some areas, utility companies offer time-of-use rates where electricity prices are higher during peak demand periods. Solar battery backups can help offset these higher costs by utilizing stored solar energy during these times.
• Electric vehicle charging: As more people switch to electric vehicles, having a solar battery backup system can make it easier and more cost-effective to charge your car at home. This not only reduces reliance on the grid but also promotes sustainable transportation.
• Emergency preparedness: Natural disasters or power outages can leave homes without electricity for extended periods of time. A solar battery backup system allows homeowners to still have access to essential appliances and devices, providing peace of mind during emergencies.

Proper Battery Sizing

Now, one important factor to consider when installing a solar battery backup is the sizing of battery you need. If you're installing a battery that will help power your entire home, you'll need a larger battery compared to one that is just meant for essential appliances.

For instance, some homeowners choose to install a battery specifically meant for certain appliances, such as a fridge or water heater. This allows them to have backup power for those specific devices without having to invest in a larger, more expensive battery.

However, if you want to have backup power for your entire home, it's important to properly size the battery and consider factors such as the average daily energy usage of your household, peak energy demands, and potential weather conditions that may affect solar panel efficiency.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to help with both solar and storage systems for clients across Utah and Idaho. Contact us today to get started!