Hint: Skip microinverters, go with backup
One of the most confusing solar terms is battery backup and backup power/storage. Although both terms get used interchangeably with each other, they don’t mean the same thing. This can create misleading advertising.
Backup is a power supply that allows you to use your system when there is a grid failure. This is either short-term stored energy or solar energy routed away from your net meter. If you have a solar system that does not have battery backup, you will not have power when the grid goes down. This is because it is against fire code for a solar system to be running power through a net meter when the grid is down.
Battery backup, on the other hand, is an actual battery that can power your home. Battery backup such as Tesla’s Powerwall stores power from your solar panels. When your panels don’t have sunlight to power your home your battery backup kicks in. Battery backup systems do not require you to connect to the grid.
These battery backup systems normally use a deep cycle battery. Designers created deep cycle batteries to use most of its capacity before recharging. There are a few different types of deep cycle batteries. Lead-acid, lithium, nickel-cadmium, and nickel-iron are the main battery competitors for solar. As of right now, lithium batteries are taking the lead in being the best deep cycle battery for solar. This is because they last longer and are more efficient.
What about when your power goes out? Many assume that their solar array would still run in a power outage. The truth, however, is that it is a requirement for grid-tied systems to be off during a power outage.
At Go Solar Group we offer a solar generator called the Goal Zero Yeti 3000. This generator allows you to have more power options. You can use it on the go or in your home.
The Yeti 3000 comes with 11 ports with different functions. This generator can power several devices at once no matter the weather or time of day.
It can also connect to your home with a home integration kit. The home integration kit allows you to connect to your breaker panel. You can power up to four 15-20 amp circuits in your home.
For those that would like to get completely off the grid, we have a solution for you as well. Go Solar Group carries Tesla Powerwalls and has installed many off-grid systems. We suggest getting an off-grid system if you live in an area that isn’t already connected to the grid. This is because it would cost as much or more to bring the grid to you as it would be to go off-grid. If, however, you live in an area already connected and would like battery backup, we can help you do this as well.
Key Definitions and Facts
Be prepared with a backup system. Complete the quick quote form to request a call about solar system pricing and products. Our team will work with you on your backup preferences to make sure that your solar array will provide security for all of your needs.