Solar Battery vs. Generator: Which One is Best for My Home?
When the power goes out in your area, what are your options? Unless you have backup power at your home, it’s likely you’ll be sitting in the dark.
Fortunately, dozens of backup power options are available to choose from – including propane, diesel, natural gas-powered generators, and solar battery systems.
When you find the right solution for your home, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your household will keep running, even if the grid goes down.
Here at Sandbar Solar Electric, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners turn to solar and battery backup on the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast in California, so we know a thing or two about the value of a good backup system.
In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between solar battery backup systems and generators and help you understand which is right for you.
What is a Generator?
Generators and solar battery systems both provide backup power in the event of an outage. The way they do it, though, is very different.
Generators are the type of backup power systems most people are familiar with. Today, most generators run on liquid propane, natural gas, or diesel.
Freestanding generators sit outside the home and either turn on manually or include sensors that detect outages and turn the generator on automatically
Compared to solar battery backup for power outages, generators are more affordable on the front end.
Despite the low upfront cost, though, generators require regular maintenance and typically come with small recurring costs. Generators typically require weekly self-tests and need continual refueling to run during outages.
They produce sound when they are running as well as exhaust that is harmful to the environment.
When a generator is maintained regularly, it can last for 10 years.
Here are a few of the pros and cons of backup generator systems:
Pros:
- Generators are more affordable upfront than solar batteries. However, solar batteries save a household money over time and there are many rebates and incentives available that can lower the upfront cost.
- Generators are easy to connect to existing natural gas lines.
- Generators provide round-the-clock power, as long as they have an ample fuel supply.
- Generators are available in a variety of sizes, from small, portable units to whole-home systems.
Cons:
- Most generators are noisy to operate.
- Even high-end generators require annual and monthly maintenance.
- Generators require fuel to operate, which means they are not eco-friendly.
- Fuel left too long in a generator can go stale, causing problems with the equipment and additional repair costs.
- Generators create emissions during operation, creating an unpleasant smell and a high carbon footprint.
What is a Solar Battery Backup?
Solar battery backup systems run on electricity and are charged by a connection to the home’s solar energy system.
The batteries store excess energy produced by solar panels and save it for later use.
Some of the most common types of battery backups available today include:
Solar battery storage systems are popular because they are reliable.
When the grid goes down, a solar-powered battery backup system will draw stored energy from the batteries to power your home with no interruptions or downtime.
In addition to providing unparalleled reliability, battery backup systems are cleaner and quieter than generators and are also a more environmentally-friendly option.
Pros:
- Battery backup systems operate almost silently.
- When combined with solar, battery backup systems run entirely on renewable energy, which means you don’t have to spend money on dirty, expensive fuels.
- Battery backup systems increase your home’s daily solar consumption.
- Installing a battery backup system can increase the value of your home.
- Some systems qualify for state and federal tax credits in California.
- Battery backup systems offer low maintenance requirements and a long lifespan.
- These systems operate seamlessly during grid outages.
Which is Most Cost-Effective?
The exact amount you’ll pay for backup power depends on your home’s size and energy needs. According to HomeAdvisor, the typical price range for a generator system is 1,413-7,594, and installation costs vary and may add upwards of 10,000 or more to the total cost. Most of these generators are powerful enough to run a typical home during an outage.
By comparison, solar battery backup systems start at around 9,000, not including installation costs.
If you’re budgeting for a battery backup system, you can expect to spend between 25,000 and 30,000 including batteries, installation, and other equipment.
Fortunately, incentives and rebates can help you access a solar battery backup system.
Don’t let the upfront price deter you, though. Financing programs are available for qualifying applicants, and battery backup systems offer long-term savings that generators don’t.
When you purchase a generator, you need to buy fuel, perform monthly and annual maintenance, and replace the generator at the end of its lifespan.
On the other hand, battery backup systems pair with solar energy systems to create a renewable power source. Over time, this can save you thousands of dollars on your electric bill.
Installing a battery backup system may also allow you to access federal and state tax incentives or participate in the SGIP Equity Resiliency program – which we’ll discuss more below.
Solar Battery Backup vs. Gas Generator: Which Option is Best for Me?
Now that you have the background on each option, which is right for you? Here’s our recommendation:
Buy a Standby Backup Generator if…
A standby backup generator is an ideal solution if you don’t mind the noise and maintenance required, you only want a system that can provide emergency power, and you have no intention of installing solar panels in the future.
If your home has an existing natural gas line, installing a standby generator may be relatively straightforward.
Buy Solar Battery Backup if…
Solar battery backup is an excellent option for customers who want a backup system that can work with an existing or future solar energy system.
A battery system is right for those who prefer a quiet, low-maintenance, reliable, and environmentally-friendly solution.
Consider investing in a battery backup system if you want to keep the lights on and power essential home appliances during a grid outage and also reduce peak electricity charges.
Limited-Time Rebates for Battery Backup
Solar battery backup systems create energy resiliency, which is something the state of California is very invested in right now.
As a result, certain households who install a solar battery backup system may be eligible for a limited-time rebate under the existing equity resilience Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) allocation.
This program benefits those living in a fire zone who are also on a Medical Baseline Rate Program. Funds are going fast, but the program funds 80-100% of total project costs if you qualify.
There are also rebates available for those in a fire zone who are not on Medical Baseline. Additionally, officials expect one last rebate bucket for battery customers not in a fire zone or on Medical Baseline.
This rebate offer will cover about 10-15% of project costs.
Thinking of Getting a Solar Battery Backup? We Can Help!
Now is an excellent time to invest in a solar battery backup system for your home, and Sandbar Solar is here to help.
Our team has over 15 years of experience designing battery systems and can install new battery systems or retrofit existing solar panel systems for a battery backup.
We service homes and businesses across the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast.
About the Author
Jeremy has worked in the solar industry since 2006. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from UC Santa Cruz in Environmental Studies. Jeremy has spent most of his solar career in residential sales and Sales Management in both California and Hawaii. He was raised in Santa Cruz County and is passionate about helping local residents make the switch to clean and reliable renewable energy. Jeremy lives on the Westside with his wife and two boys and enjoys music, photography and hiking in his personal time.
Disadvantages of Solar Energy: Top 7 You Should Know
While manufacturers, governments, and green energy activists espouse many solar energy benefits as a clean, renewable source of power, it begs the question, “What are some disadvantages of solar energy?”
This article explores seven key issues if you’re wondering what the disadvantages of solar energy for at-home or large-scale operations are.
Initial Cost
The initial cost of solar panel installation is very expensive, averaging around 29,000 for systems producing up to 8Kw of power, which is enough to power a four-bedroom home (1).
Installment costs cover the equipment such as panels, inverters, charge controllers, wiring, permits, labor, repairs, and maintenance. It is an investment that pays off over time, but it takes an extended amount of time for the savings made on solar energy to compensate for the initial costs.
Pollution and Environmental Impact
One of the lesser-known disadvantages of passive solar energy is the environmental impact that materials, space, and production have. Solar energy fields take up a lot of land, invading agricultural lands and habitats for native flora and fauna (2).
Depending on their location, larger utility-scale solar facilities can raise concerns about land degradation and habitat loss.
While solar energy is certainly less harmful to the environment than non-renewable energy sources, it does present some obstacles to its green-energy proclamations. For example, solar panels use some toxic materials in their production.
While the U.S. implements safety protocols to dispose of hazardous waste or recycle materials that people can still use, many other countries do not practice safe waste disposal and end up contaminating soil, air, and water sources.
Lower your electric bill, increase your property value, reduce your tax liability, and help save the world.
Space Limitations
Most residential properties have more than enough space to install solar panels to power all their electrical needs. Even RVs and cabins can be retrofitted with a solar power system.
Office buildings, large apartment complexes, and high-rises would need far more solar panels than their roofs will allow.
Unfortunately, larger establishments have space constraints that limit their opportunity to maximize solar energy. Adding to its difficulty is their high energy requirement and consumption, which will require more solar panels, solar batteries, and inverters vs. personal solar power applications. Thus, many commercial properties, albeit wanting to move to solar energy, will still prefer traditional electricity over going solar.
Despite these difficulties, many regions have solar fields in which panels span acres, harnessing more power to provide and sustain solar energy for larger populations.
Inefficient Energy Conversion
Solar panels have an average efficiency of 15-19%, with the most efficient solar panels reaching 22-23% efficiency. Therefore, the most efficient solar panels on the market can transform 23% of the energy they harness from the sun into usable electricity (3).
The darkest panels — with the most reflection — are most efficient (4):
Anti-reflection coatings and textured surfaces help decrease reflection. A high-efficiency cell will appear dark blue or black.
While an average efficiency of 15-19% may seem like a small percentage when compared to the most efficient renewable energy sources available, the solar energy industry steadily increases energy efficiency each year. Once solar panels begin to perform inefficiently, it’s time to ask the question, “How long should solar panels last?” to get the most out of your investment.
Energy Storage Cost
One of the most significant disadvantages of using solar energy is you’ll also have to invest in batteries and solar charge controllers if you intend to have power during nighttime. These two components work together to regulate and store collected energy for later use. Without them, you’re limiting energy consumption and usage only when the sun is shining.
Storing a full day’s worth of energy isn’t possible without spending a large amount of money on multiple large batteries and charge controllers.
Thus, additional costs on top of the solar panels can be expected when switching to solar power. Although many homes and other single-family units can pick up a solar battery for solar power storage, buying multiple batteries and several controllers may be unavoidable, especially for large households or extended solar power use at nighttime.
Solar energy storage for enormous companies is still too costly, although innovators like Tesla are now manufacturing massive solar energy storage batteries.
Sunlight Unpredictability
When answering, “What are the disadvantages of solar energy?” you must mention the sun’s unpredictability.
Sunlight production varies from dawn to dusk, day to day, season, and geographical location. The disadvantage to solar energy for inhabitants of northern latitudes with long, dark winter seasons is far greater than for inhabitants of sunnier latitudes closer to the equator.
The early morning and late afternoon hours provide less solar energy than the midday sun. This could be an issue, for example, if you’re a farmer using a solar electric fence charger to herd your flock with an insufficient-sized battery.
Also, winter months have shorter days and less sun than spring and summer months, so you will harness less solar energy during the winter.
If you live in a shady area or a region with significant Cloud cover, you may not get enough sunlight for solar panels to be worth the installation.
No Energy Production at Night
Since you must use solar energy as the sun produces it and your panels convert it, you will be completely bereft of energy at night when the sun no longer shines. This poses a problem for night-time activity if you rely solely on solar energy.
A fantastic video by University of Sheffield in England helps to clarify this:
Ultimately, you will either need to use energy stored in a purchased battery or switch from solar energy to a grid at night. For RVS, cabins, and other off-grid establishments, you may not have an electrical grid to support night-time activity.
FAQs
How Can You Optimize Solar Energy Efficiency?
One way you can optimize solar energy efficiency is by using monocrystalline panels, since they’re more efficient due to their uniform composition (5). You should also ensure that your panels’ placement assumes the proper angle and direction to receive the most sunlight possible.
Is the Initial Cost of Solar Energy Worth the Expense?
The initial cost of solar energy is usually worth the expense for smaller households, cabins, and RVs as you can buy a solar panel kit and install it yourself. Even for large businesses, solar energy can have many benefits (found here). For more information on solar energy and how you can recoup initial costs involved with switching over, Click or Tap This for our Homepage to see the latest in the industry.
Does Solar Work at Night?
No, solar doesn’t technically work at night. Photovoltaic cells in solar panels need sunlight to create energy, which there is none of during the nighttime. However, solar energy offers two nighttime solutions so you’re not left in the dark. Net metering and proper solar battery storage can both help to provide you with the power you need when you need it (6).
Lower your electric bill, increase your property value, reduce your tax liability, and help save the world.
- Cost of solar. Retrieved from: https://www.sunrun.com/solar-lease/cost-of-solar
- Environmental Impacts of Solar Power. Retrieved from: https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/environmental-impacts-solar-power#.WEV3IPkrJkg
- How does solar power work? Retrieved from: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-does-solar-power-work/
- Solar Performance and Efficiency. Retrieved from: https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-performance-and-efficiency
- Solar Panel Efficiency – Pick the Most Efficient Solar Panels. Retrieved from: https://www.solar.com/learn/solar-panel-efficiency/
- Do Solar Panels Work at Night? Retrieved from: https://www.sunrun.com/go-solar-center/solar-articles/do-solar-panels-work-at-night
Dara Brandt
Dara Brant is the Managing Editor at Green Building Elements. Prior to joining us she covered alternative energy news and local developments at Your Energy Blog. Dara has a passion for sustainable living and wants to do more than her fair share to help build a better tomorrow for future generations. You can connect with Dara on LinkedIn.
Disadvantages of solar generator
Power outages can be incredibly frustrating. Whether it’s a storm knocking out the electricity, or grid failures leaving you in the dark, being without power is never fun. But fear not! Solar generators are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative source of energy during blackouts. In this blog post, we will review the top 5 best solar generators for sale in 2019 and help you decide if they’re the solution to your power outage woes!
Disadvantages of Solar Power
While solar power has many benefits, it’s important to consider its drawbacks as well. One major disadvantage is that it can be expensive to install and maintain, especially if you’re looking to power your entire home or business with a solar energy system.
Another issue is the fact that solar panels are dependent on sunlight. This means that they may not always produce enough energy during cloudy or rainy days, which could be problematic for those who rely solely on solar power.
In addition, some people have raised concerns about the environmental impact of producing and disposing of solar panels. While many argue that these concerns are overblown, it’s worth considering the full lifecycle of a solar panel when evaluating its overall sustainability.
There is also the issue of space limitations. To generate significant amounts of electricity from solar panels requires a lot of space. If you live in an area where space is at a premium (like an apartment complex), this may not be feasible for you.
Despite these drawbacks, however, many still believe that the benefits of using solar power outweigh any potential downsides.
The Top 5 Best Solar Generators for Sale in 2019
If you’re considering purchasing a solar generator to provide power during outages or while off-grid, it’s important to choose one that is reliable and efficient. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best solar generators for sale in 2019.
First on our list is the Goal Zero Yeti 1400 Lithium Portable Power Station. This powerful generator has a large battery capacity and can be charged via solar panels or AC power outlets. It also features multiple output ports and can even run small appliances like mini-fridges.
Next up is the Renogy Phoenix Portable Generator All-in-one Solar Kit. This compact and lightweight generator includes built-in solar panels as well as an AC outlet and USB ports for charging devices. Its versatility makes it ideal for camping trips or emergency situations.
Third on our list is the Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station. With a massive battery capacity, this generator can power larger appliances like TVs and electric grills, making it perfect for outdoor events or extended power outages.
The fourth option on our list is the Bluetti EB240 Solar Generator Power Station. This high-capacity generator comes with both AC wall charger and car charger options, as well as multiple output ports suitable for powering various devices at once.
We have the Rockpals 500W/540Wh Portable Power Station with its sleek design that packs plenty of punch when it comes to performance. With three ways to charge. through solar panels, wall sockets, or car chargers. this unit combines portability with durability making it an excellent choice for long camping trips or unexpected emergencies.
No matter which of these top-rated solar generators you choose from! Each one provides reliable backup power whenever you need it most!
Conclusion
To sum up, solar generators can be a great solution to power outage woes, especially if you live in an area with frequent blackouts or natural disasters. They are eco-friendly, easy to use and maintain, and provide reliable backup power when you need it the most.
When choosing a solar generator for sale, consider your specific needs and budget. Look for models that offer enough wattage to power your essential appliances and devices, as well as features such as multiple charging options, LCD displays, and durable construction.
Based on our research and analysis of customer reviews, we recommend the following top 5 best solar generators for sale in 2019: Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Portable Power Station Kit; Renogy Phoenix All-in-One Solar Generator Kit; Anker Powerhouse Compact Portable Generator; Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station; Rockpals 250-Watt Portable Generator Rechargeable Lithium Battery Pack Solar Generator.
Investing in a high-quality solar generator is not only practical but also environmentally conscious. By harnessing the sun’s energy to generate electricity during emergencies or outdoor adventures alike – you’ll reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring that you always have access to reliable backup power!
Pros Cons of Solar Panels for a Home Roof
We’re all looking for ways to live a little greener, and solar energy generation is one of the best ways of achieving that. However, knowing whether they are a good idea for your unique home and situation can be challenging.
If you’ve found this guide, you’re likely looking for some help weighing the pros and cons of installing solar panels on your roof. Don’t worry; you’re in the right place.
We’ll put your mind at ease with this complete guide to the benefits and drawbacks of solar panels for a home roof.
Should I Install Solar Panels on My Roof?
Solar power has continued to grow in popularity and drop in cost, meaning many of us are weighing up the pros and cons of installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on our roofs. The truth is, the answer to this question comes entirely down to your unique requirements. For some, the answer is a resounding yes because it means utility cost savings, increased home value, and potentially even tax breaks and incentives. For others, it might take a little longer to mull it over.
Luckily, that’s what we’re here to help with in this guide. We’ll take you through some of the most significant benefits and downsides of permanently installing solar panels on your roof.
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision, so let’s get into it.
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels for Your Home
Let’s start with the positives. Here are all the reasons installing solar panels on your roof could be an excellent investment in your future. You might have already thought of some of them, but there could be some surprises here, so keep reading!
Reducing or Eliminating Electricity Bills
We will start with an obvious benefit: saving money. If you are generating your electricity via the sun, your electricity bills will immediately be lower because you will consume less power from the grid.
Solar power works in two ways, either on-grid or off-grid. On-grid solar systems allow you to claim compensation from the grid equal to the excess energy you have generated. Off-grid solar systems will enable you to direct the electricity you generate directly to the source via charged portable power stations, which essentially act as giant batteries.
Either way, after you’ve paid off your initial investment in solar, you will have more money in your as you spend less on electricity bills.
Off-Grid Independence
If you opt for an off-grid system, you will no longer need to rely on the electrical grid for your power supply. Not only is it satisfying to be self-sufficient, but it also has significant practical benefits.
First and foremost, it makes you invulnerable to blackouts, as you’ll have your own electricity supply right at home! With power outages on the rise due to extreme weather and aging infrastructure, energy independence gives you peace of mind for your home and family’s safety.
Of course, it is crucial to bear in mind that to achieve total self-reliance, you will need more than a portable solar generator. You will likely need multiple solar panels and a power station to store enough energy and keep it in reserve, especially if your house consumes a lot of electricity.
Still, off-grid independence is achievable and an attractive concept to many. If you’re particularly interested in living off-grid, look into the EcoFlow DELTA series, as these offer some of the highest wattages on the market. Other even more robust options include the EcoFlow Power Kits and Smart Home Ecosystem.
Tax Benefits of Solar Power
Governments are highly aware of renewable energy’s positive impact on the environment. Given the severity of the climate crisis, it’s no wonder they are trying to encourage individuals to set up solar panels. One way they do this is through federal tax credits, including compensation and rebates.
Depending on where you live, you could claim up to 30% of your total installation costs. Some states are more generous than others, but researching which benefits you could be eligible for is always worthwhile. You might be surprised by the amount of help available.
Environmental Benefits
We’ve touched on this a little, but it deserves its own explanation. Solar power is an entirely green, renewable source of energy. It doesn’t rely on fossil fuels, nor does it emit harmful fumes and particulate pollution into the air that can negatively impact the environment and your health. Solar generators also produce virtually no sound, so you don’t need to worry about noise pollution either!
It can sometimes be difficult to envisage how beneficial solar panels are, so let’s walk you through some numbers. The average Canadian produces 14.2 tons of carbon dioxide annually—amongst the world’s most. That’s a hefty carbon footprint!
But, installing solar panels on your roof could reduce your carbon footprint by 3 tons or more. That’s almost half of the average yearly contribution, and the more houses that convert to solar power, the more beneficial it will be for the planet.
Increased Home Value
There doesn’t seem to be an end to the money-saving opportunities with solar panels. Not only do they cut down your electrical bills and potentially open you up to various tax benefits, but they can also improve the value of your home. Given the enduring lifespan of solar panels, this is a relevant bonus, even if you don’t plan on selling any time soon.
The value of a home increases because solar energy is the future, and most buyers are well aware of this. If you have already invested in solar panels, buyers are far more willing to pay extra for the added feature.
Low Maintenance
Once you have installed your solar panels on your roof, you don’t need to do anything to them. They simply absorb sunlight and provide electricity. You don’t need to refill anything, like with traditional fuel generators, nor do you need to worry about cleaning them or any kind of upkeep, as rain will take care of that. A once or twice-a-year clean to remove any accumulated debris should be more than sufficient.
The EcoFlow range of rigid solar panels takes this to the next level thanks to its fully waterproof IP68 rating, protecting them from the elements and making them highly durable. With this level of protection, you can expect your solar system to last for years.
Easy Installation
Fitting solar panels to your roof is so easy you might not even require professional help. Effectively, all you need to do is attach solar mounts to your roof and then securely fix the solar panels. From there, it’s just a case of connecting the correct cables to allow electricity to flow through your system to the portable power station, power kit, or Smart home ecosystem. It couldn’t be simpler!
The Future of Energy
Given the state of potentially catastrophic climate change, we are all looking for new ways to live greener, and solar energy is the most accessible and impactful choice. commercial and private properties are turning to solar power to keep their lights on. Get ahead of the curve and be a part of the future; you won’t regret it.
Solar Electricity Can Be Sold Back to the Grid
If you opt for an on-grid solar system, any excess energy you provide to the grid will be deducted from your energy bill. With net metering, you can also sell the power you generate to the grid. It’s a handy transaction that’s beneficial both to your finances and the running of the grid, so there’s no downside.
Disadvantages of Solar Panels
Unfortunately, it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows with solar panels. There are some drawbacks to consider before going ahead with your purchase to ensure they are right for you. Let’s take a closer look.
Doesn’t Work for Every Roof Type
You have to position solar panels properly to achieve the highest energy production. The optimal orientation and angle usually require a slanted roof that faces the sun.
Some roofs have a unique shape that might not accommodate rigid, flat panels. For those homes, flexible solar panels can be a good workaround.
You also need to consider how much sun exposure your panels will receive. If your roof mostly stays in the shade, panels may not be as productive as you like.
The orientation of the solar panels also matters. The ideal direction is true south. Homes where the solar panels face east or west will receive less sunlight.
You should also consider the condition of your roof. Solar panels might be risky if it’s significantly old or has shown signs of degradation. They are pretty heavy, and that extra weight could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Only take the risk if you’re confident your roof can handle them. Always get a professional opinion!
Not Ideal If You’re About to Move
Although solar panels do increase the value of your home, you aren’t going to benefit from them if you’re planning on moving in the near term. Consider holding off on your solar panel installation if you plan on moving home until you’re in your new property. Unless, of course, you only want solar panels for the increased resale price of your home.
One option to get around this issue is to consider portable solar panels. They’re not designed for roof installations since they come with a kickstand you set up on the ground. Still, the portability makes them painless to transport when it’s time to move.
Buying Solar Panels Can be Expensive
Lastly, but still important, solar panels can be pricey upfront. Although you will almost certainly make money back in the long term, the out-of- cost at the very beginning can seem initially overwhelming.
The investment is worth it, but you should still carefully consider your budget before forking out for a solar system of your own.
So, Are Solar Panels Right for You?
We have provided you with a comprehensive list of all the pros and cons of installing solar panels on your roof. Now it’s down to you! The decision is entirely yours, and only you know whether it’d be a good idea. Don’t make a knee-jerk decision. Consider all the talking points carefully before making a purchase. Just remember, solar is the future!
EcoFlow is a portable power and renewable energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace-of-mind power to customers in over 85 markets through its DELTA and RIVER product lines of portable power stations and eco-friendly accessories.