Generac PWRcell battery systems can now be AC-coupled to third-party inverters
Generac Power Systems announced today an update to its PWRcell products that allows for AC-coupled energy storage, as well as AC generator integration. The new firmware will allow PWRcell batteries to accept up to 7.6 kW of AC power by third-party solar inverters.
The same firmware update also unlocks the opportunity for a new or existing Generac Guardian home standby generator to connect to a PWRcell solar battery storage system. The AC-powered Guardian units provide extended protection during power outages when battery power has been exhausted, and by combining an air-cooled generator with battery storage, customers can enjoy the value of clean energy, along with the reliability of a home standby unit.
“Generac is proud to lead the way in envisioning the future of energy through a robust offering of market-leading power solutions that enhance energy resilience and independence,” said Aaron Jagdfeld, president and chief executive officer of Generac. “We continue to grow our portfolio of clean energy products, expanding the capabilities of solar battery storage solutions and giving our dealers and installers a wide array of options for their customers.”
About The Author
Kelly Pickerel
Kelly Pickerel has over a decade of experience reporting on the U.S. solar industry and is currently editor in chief of Solar Power World.
Комментарии и мнения владельцев
We just installed a great solar system with battery pack. Do have AC1 and AC2. How do we get someone who knows how to tie in wind turbine into our system.
This sounds like the early version of inverter/charger offered by Xantrex that is part of the Schneider group now. Xantrex had an inverter/charger that could accommodate what was called AC1 and AC2. Usually AC1 was a grid tied connection and AC2 was an auxillary that could be a wind turbine, micro-hydro or a fueled generation set for site power. Having this on the Generac product makes this setup a micro-grid capable resiliency system for one’s home. I’d like to see more modularity in the battery pack options. Maybe being able to expand beyond the often advertised maximum of 34kWh to say maybe up to expandable modules up at 100kWh. Then the Smart ESS sector would have Humless Universal and Generac PWRcell as excellent options for a small home microgrid. The ‘problem’ with the early Xantrex units, the contractor’s that installed these systems didn’t understand how the inverter/charger worked. (IF) one Had AC2 on a generator set and power went out the inverter bypasses to AC2 and the site runs off of generator power to recharge the backup batteries AND take over powering the site. The problem here is instead of designing for system operation, often the contractor would have maybe a 25kW system with a 10kW generator for backup. In actuality the generator set should be 30kW to 35kW to meet site needs on AC2. The take away, as systems pack more features into their electronics packages the closer one is to grid agnostic or full off grid, the more electronically inclined the technicians and installers need to be to get the system installed and online.
I have a Generac Solar system with battery bank and ent to add a wind turbine. It seems I am not getting info to support this configuration. Can you help?
Generac PWRCELL APKE00014 7.6kw Hybrid Inverter W/ Ct’s
Solar-plus-storage is simple with the Generac PWRcell Inverter. This bi-directional, REbus- powered inverter offers a simple, efficient design for integrating Smart batteries with solar. Ideal for self-supply, backup power, zero-export and energy cost management, the PWRcell inverter is the industry’s most feature-rich line of inverters, available in single-phase and three-phase models.
- Single inverter for grid-tied solar with Smart battery integration
- Simplified system design: No autotransformer or battery inverter needed
- User-selectable modes for backup power, self-supply, time-of-use, zero-import and export limiting
- Free system monitoring included via PWRview Web Portal and Mobile App
Others
Choose Options
Recently Viewed
Sorry, there are no products.
Social
Edit Option
Back In Stock Notification
Terms Conditions
US Solar Supplier Shipping Policy At USSolarSupplier, we recognize the importance of receiving your solar products promptly and efficiently. Our goal is to provide a seamless, customer-friendly experience throughout the entire shipping process. To help you better understand our shipping practices, please review our comprehensive shipping policy below.
Shipping Costs and Carriers Shipping costs are calculated based on the weight and dimensions of the product(s) in your order. We utilize FedEx or UPS for ground shipments, and trusted freight carriers for larger shipments. All of our shipments are insured for your protection. For logistical reasons, all shipments are made using our company’s shipping account.
Estimated Delivery Time For standard delivery, most orders will arrive at their destination within 7 to 10 business days. Please note that these estimates are subject to change depending on carrier’s operational capabilities and other factors beyond our control.
Inspecting Shipments Upon Delivery When your order arrives, it’s of utmost importance that you meticulously inspect your shipment upon delivery. If delivered by a freight truck, you should reach out to the freight carrier using the phone number given on the carrier’s bill. By signing the delivery receipt without noting any potential damages, issues, or if you’re unable to inspect the delivery, you are legally confirming that you’ve received the shipment in good condition. Please be advised that USSolarSupplier can’t be held responsible for any damages or missing items not listed on the delivery receipt. If you decide to accept a package that’s visibly damaged, make sure to note on the delivery receipt that you’re signing for a damaged package. However, please note that USSolarSupplier can’t be held responsible for any damages or missing items accepted via signature delivery. After receiving your shipment, it is crucial that you carefully count and inspect the contents before acknowledging delivery. In the unlikely event that your shipment has been damaged during transit, please take photos of the materials and note the damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL). If there is major visible damage, you should reject the delivery outright. In case of damages, it is required that you notify US Solar Supplier by email (kyle@ussolarsupplier.com) within 24 hours of delivery. Please include the signed BOL, as well as any additional photos or supporting documents. If the BOL is not properly noted at the time of delivery, US Solar Supplier cannot be held responsible for additional costs for replacement materials. All returned items are subject to inspection and approval.
Expedited Shipments We strive to ship expedited orders on the same day we receive them. However, orders placed after 1:00 PM Eastern Time (10:00 AM Pacific Standard Time) may not ship the same day. Expedited orders placed over the weekend or on major holidays will be processed and shipped on the following business day. Please note that carriers do not deliver on weekends or major holidays, with the exception of Saturday delivery. If you require Saturday delivery, please contact our sales department at 1 (800) 230-7004 for assistance.
Out of Stock and Backordered Items Occasionally, an item may have a lead time or be backordered after your order is received. If there is a lead time associated with your order, we will contact you to confirm whether this lead time aligns with your project deadline.
Please include this information in the order notes when placing your order, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs. For other special requirements, please call our sales department at 1 (800) 230-7004 before placing your order.
Multiple Shipments
We warehouse our products across the United States, and occasionally, we may need to ship your order from two or more different locations. In such cases, we will never charge you more for shipping than your original payment. If you require your order to arrive in a single shipment, please contact our sales department when placing your order at 1 (800) 230-7004 or add this information to the Order Комментарии и мнения владельцев box. To consolidate certain orders, we may need to bring the products into our Vista office and combine them before shipping, which may result in an additional 3-5 day lead time and additional shipping charges.
International Shipments
Currently, USSolarSupplier only ships within the United States and does not offer international shipping.
Shipping on Your FedEx or UPS Account
USSolarSupplier’s policy requires regular parcel orders (ground, air/express shipments, non-freight) to be shipped on our UPS account. We appreciate your understanding.
Freight Shipments
Certain products on USSolarSupplier must be shipped freight due to their weight, dimensions, or classification as hazardous materials. For more information, please refer to our Claims Returns Policy and Refund Policy.
Freight Shipment Products include, but are not limited to:
- Large solar panels (over 90 watts in most cases)
- Large Inverters (over 1kW)
- Rails longer than 9 feet (108)
- Flooded lead-acid batteries
- Deep cycle batteries
- Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFeP04)
Freight Options
When placing an order that requires freight shipping, you will need the following information:
Residential freight shipments are more expensive than commercial zone shipments due to accessibility and established routes. If your freight shipment weighs over 100 pounds and you lack access to a forklift or loading dock, you will need a lift gate to unload your pallet from the truck.
Freight can be complex; if you require assistance in selecting the appropriate shipping option, please contact our sales department at 1 (800) 230-7004 for support. The freight quotes provided on our website are approximate, and our team may be able to offer a better rate.
Please note that the shipping cost displayed at checkout is an estimate and may be adjusted at the time of shipment. Freight rates may increase while the product is in production. You can help by providing a commercial shipping address that can accommodate a semi-trailer and/or acknowledging the outlined terms and conditions.
Ground/Freight Cost Logistics Unforeseen Expenses
Any fees incurred by a shipping carrier due to a lack of delivery information (address or location) will automatically be billed to the customer. Please ensure you check your order confirmation for accurate information.
When placing an order by phone, inform the sales representative of any shipping irregularities (inaccessible areas for shipping carriers, such as narrow driveways, rural locations, steep hills, dirt/gravel roads, or missing address information and signage).
By placing an order with USSolarSupplier, you agree to our shipping policy. If you have any questions or concerns about shipping, please feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer support team. We are always here to help and ensure that your experience with USSolarSupplier is a positive one.
Restocking Fee
Please note that a 40% restocking fee will be applied to panels, inverters, and batteries once the order has been processed and delivery has been attempted. This fee is in place to cover the costs associated with processing, handling, and restocking returned items.
If you need to cancel an order, please contact our customer support team as soon as possible. If the order has not yet been shipped, we will make every effort to cancel it without incurring additional costs. However, if the order has already been shipped, you will be responsible for the return shipping costs and the 40% restocking fee mentioned above.
Claims Returns Policy
If you receive damaged, defective, or incorrect products, please contact our customer support team within 5 business days of receiving the shipment. We will work with you to find a suitable solution, which may include issuing a refund, replacing the product, or providing technical support to resolve the issue.
To initiate a return, you must first obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number from our customer support team. Please note that returns without an RMA number will not be accepted. When returning products, they must be in their original packaging, with all accessories and documentation included. The customer is responsible for return shipping costs, and the 40% restocking fee will apply.
Refund Policy
Refunds will be issued to the original payment method within 14 business days of receiving the returned product(s). The refund amount will be the purchase price minus the 40% restocking fee and any shipping charges incurred during the initial shipment and return process.
Lost or Stolen Packages
USSolarSupplier is not responsible for lost or stolen packages confirmed to be delivered to the address entered for an order. Upon inquiry, we will confirm the delivery to the address provided, date of delivery, tracking information, and shipping carrier information for the customer to investigate.
By placing an order with USSolarSupplier, you agree to our shipping policy. If you have any questions or concerns about shipping, please feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable customer support team. We are always here to help and ensure that your experience with USSolarSupplier is a positive one.
How Much Is A Generac Power Cell? Is It Worth The Price?
Due to growing electricity bills and the prevalence of power grid breakdowns, more people are considering solar power generating and battery storage devices like the Generac PWRcell.
It is a leader, alongside its closest competitor, Tesla Powerwall, regarding home solar energy collection, storage, and distribution.
Knowing the Generac power cell costs will help you better decide what to buy, Generac power cell vs its competitor – Tesla Powerwall.
What Is The Generac PWRcell?
The Generac PWRcell is a residential battery storage and management system. It can catch, store, and transport clean energy across households and charge electric vehicles (EVs) when paired with solar panels.
But you can also use it as a power backup system without solar panels during an electricity outage.
A Generac PWRcell system contains:
- A load management unit (PWRmanager).
- One whole home electrical distribution controller (PWRcell ATS).
- A power cell inverter.
- Battery cabinets.
- Batteries.
Install the solar panels individually. PV Link/Optimizers are a must to connect Generac PWRcell to solar panels.
On top of that, PWRgenerator is a propane- or gas-fueled backup generator that could top off energy stored when other supplies are insufficient.
Generac Power Cell Cost
The price of a 9 kilowatt-hour (kWh) system is around 18,000.
The Generac PWRcell’s pricing is also affected by how many panels are available and whether you have solar panels. For instance, installing 22 solar panels will cost around 29,000. The total price of installing solar panels and a Generac PWRcell system is roughly 47,000.
Adding more batteries raises the price by about 2,000 per one. Also, you’ll need to buy another cabinet for every six batteries you add. Each cabinet now costs between 3,300 and 3,500.
The minimum number of batteries fitting in a cabinet is three. Thus, the lowest cost for batteries in a cabinet would be around 6,000, with a maximum cost of 12,000 for a bank of six battery modules.
The price will vary depending on the dealer you buy from. Whether you buy from a Generac dealer or a solar installer, who may tack on a markup to the price, affects how much you’ll pay.
How Does The PWRcell Solar Home Battery Work?
Once the utility reduces net metering, institutes mandatory charges, or implements time-of-use rates, the PWRcell works wonders with the solar panel section.
This lets you maintain a steady power supply day and night as long as you store enough power from your solar panels on sunny days.
The PWRcell, like other home battery solutions, is sized for daily home usage and connects directly to a solar panel system. Instead of transmitting excess energy to the grid, you can store it in the PWRcell battery system. As such, you can conveniently use your battery’s stored energy on rainy days.
Key Things To Know About The Generac PWRcell
Chemistry
The PWRcell is a lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) battery, making it a lithium-ion battery module. NMC batteries are noted for their average power rating and relatively high energy density.
Monitoring
Their management technology is entirely built-in into the PWRcell single inverter, but Generac also provides PWRview for high-end monitoring abilities.
Thanks to them, Generac’s PWRcell batteries and components can smartly regulate electrical loads in the living space and extract electricity from this battery if required.
Performance Metrics
You can assess the solar battery performance via its roundtrip efficiency and discharge depth.
Depth of discharge (DoD) is a battery’s energy discharged as a proportion of its capacity compared to its overall energy.
Multiple manufacturers recommend a maximum DoD level for optimal battery performance, as each charge, discharge, and recharge cycle mitigates the battery’s lifespan. As such, high-discharge batteries are often more qualified. Generac PWRcell’s DoD is about 84%.
Roundtrip efficiency calculates battery charging and discharging electrical losses. The higher efficiency proportion makes it more efficient for the battery to convert incoming electricity into stored and usable energy.
For every 10 kWh of electricity you put into Generac PWRcell DC-coupled batteries, you’ll get 9.65 kWh of output.
Battery Size
The Generac PWRcell M3, M4, M5, and M6 have varying numbers of backup battery modules.
Usable storage capacity and power are vital when comparing the PWRcell to other home storage options.
Power is the greatest amount that can be output at once, and usable capacity is the maximum amount stored in a full-charge battery. The PWRcell M6 is the largest product in the range, with 18 kWh of usable capacity and 9 kW off-grid power.
Meanwhile, the off-grid power is 4.5, 6, and 7.5 kW for the M3, M4, and M5 versions, respectively.
What Are the PWRcell’s Main Components?
PWRcell Battery Cabinet
PWRcell’s primary lithium-ion battery modules are in the battery cabinet. Based on backup power needs, its enclosure fits any size configuration.
Also, the PWRcell system lets you add battery modules to an existing battery cabinet with a backup from 9 kWh to 18 kWh. This is one of the most awesome capacities among commercial and residential batteries.
Generac PWRcell Inverter
Your solar array and PWRcell inverter work together. Inverters connect the battery storage with the solar system, transforming solar energy into electricity and diverting it from there.
User-selectable modes allow the inverter to manage power. Your home’s energy needs will determine the modes: self-supply, backup power, time-of-use, export-limiting, and zero-import.
PWRcell inverters’ capability lets you monitor, forecast, and adjust your home’s power requirements using the PWRview web portal and smartphone app.
Smart Management Modules
Generac’s Smart Management Modules (SMM) halt PWRcell from overload. The power system can safely control up to eight residential circuits when combined with the PWRcell’s ATS. This also makes the PWRcell so good at wisely regulating energy during outages.
Convenient Generac’s PWRview App
The PWRview app lets you manage household energy to a tee. It helps assess your energy consumption, estimate expenditures, and offer tips on managing stored energy and lowering your bills.
Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
Manually switching your home’s energy supply to a backup source, whether from a generator or battery, can be tricky and risky. Thus, generators must be set up to deliver energy to individual circuits, such as ventilation, heating, and air conditioners.
The PWRcell relies heavily on ATS to facilitate a seamless transition from the electric grid to the whole-house backup system. Afterward, it can regulate the solar system’s energy usage, dispatching the power to household devices and systems.
Generac PWRcell Pros and Cons
Pros
- Modular
This Generac PWRcell is an excellent option for a garage, mechanical area, or outside installation, thanks to its particular functions and design.
Generac PWRcell directs solar energy into batteries without converting it (which Tesla Powerwall does), making it 7% to 10% more efficient than Tesla Powerwall.
Cons
The Generac PWRcell is sold only as an integrated system, with no option to purchase individual parts from other brands.
A Tesla Powerwall is the optimal charging solution for Tesla cars, not Generac Powercell.
During a power outage, the Powerwall and Tesla are built to coordinate with one another and control the electricity’s flow. Still, Generac PWRcell fits other EV brands but for Tesla.
Is A Generac PWRcell Or Generac Generator Worth It?
It’s up to your home’s demand and the electrical system’s structure.
The Generac PWRcell is long-lasting. A typical solar panel-equipped Generac PWRcell system saves a 3,000-square-foot building in a sunny region approximately 66,000 in electric bills of homeowners money across 25 years.
This power control system becomes effective using solar panels. If you’re only seeking power backup for the infrequent power outage, a Generac PWRcell may not be worth the money. Instead, a whole-house generator powered by propane or natural gas is more appropriate.
A (gas/propane) Generac 22/19.5 kWh full-house generator, whose average cost is only 6,200, produces more powerful energy than the Generac PWRcell. Also, a mobile gasoline-powered generator is around half the price of a full-house one.
Still, noise levels in the 67 to 74 dB range, equivalent to traffic noise, make whole-house and mobile generators unsuitable for usage in populated regions. Meanwhile, the Generac PWRcell is entirely silent and has no emissions.
Can The Generac PWRcell Help You Go Off-Grid?
Yes. The PWRcell’s battery cabinet is also weatherproof and suitable for off-grid projects.
During outages, you can recharge the PWRcell for off-grid backup power. At that time, its automatic load management lets you choose which parts at home get backup power.
However, before going off-grid, verify with your local government. Some regions and states forbid disconnecting from public power.
Where To Buy The Generac PWRcell
You can get a Generac PWRcell battery pack from the firm’s website and purchase one from any solar or energy storage installation company registered Generac/Pika.
Generac home battery systems and authorized EnergySage providers are the most reliable and go-to sites for such details. Join the EnergySage Marketplace online and specify your product choices that meet your demand.
Improper installation of a solar-plus-storage system can lead to costly repairs and power failure. Thus, it’s better to call a skilled electrician with experience installing such vital systems.
Generac Pwrcell Warranty Periods
There’s a 10-year guarantee on the PWRcell’s components.
Generac also includes a “throughput warranty” for the various PWRcell variants. This warranty is an alternative method of determining when a battery’s guarantee period has ended based on the stored energy amount.
Generac’s battery technology is similar to that of other large and small rechargeable batteries: the battery loses some of its ability to store a charge over time after multiple charging and discharge times.
For example, it’s normal to see a phone’s battery that will gradually drain its capacity to store energy when it is repeatedly charged and discharged.
FAQs
How Long Will A Generac PWRcell Last?
The PWRcell battery life is around 10 years.
Can A Generac PWRcell Be source Of Home Backup Energy?
Yes. The PWRcell can be a backup power supply for your home in case of a blackout. Generac power systems have spent decades providing backup power, and the PWRcell continues the excellence regarding the areas using solar energy.
Where Can A PWRcell Be Installed?
Generac PWRcell, like the Tesla Powerwall, is ready to go wherever it is placed, whether indoors or outdoors.
Can You Power An Electric Vehicle With A PWRcell?
The most significant PWRcell type has a battery capacity of only 18 kWh, far less than the batteries found in most extended-range electric vehicles. That means a Generac PWRcell is unlikely to be able to recharge your automobile fully.
Key Takeaways
Generac has led the backup power generation industry for homes, businesses, and factories. It’s an industry leader in generators powered by gasoline, diesel, or other natural fuel and has had a product line built primarily for home backup power.
Now, you have grasped the Generac power cell price before considering installing a system. Overall, it’s not a significant figure! It’s worth investing in for your convenience, way more valuable than its competitors.
Also, share this good read with any homemakers using (or about to use) a Generac Power cell system.
Is The Cost Of A Generac Power Cell Worth It?
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon associate, we earn a commission on qualifying purchases if you purchase a product through a link on our website at no extra cost to you. Thank you.
people are looking into solar power and battery storage systems like the Generac power cell because there are more problems with the energy grid, and energy costs are rising.
Generac power cell and its closest competitor, Tesla Powerwall, are at the front of the pack for getting power from the sun, storing that power as efficiently as possible, and sending that energy all over the house.
In this blog post, let’s look at the cost of a Generac power cell, its pros and cons, and if the price of a Generac power cell is worth it. But first, let’s see what a Generac power cell is.
What is a Generac Power Cell?
The Generac power cell, also called the Generac PWRcell, is a home battery storage and management system.
When combined with photovoltaic solar panels, Generac PWRcell can capture, store, and distribute solar energy throughout a home. It can even be used to charge electric cars (EVs).
Generac PWRcell can be used without solar panels as a backup power source in case the power from the grid goes out.
An integrated Generac PWRcell system has a load management device (PWRmanager), a whole-home power distribution manager (PWRcell ATS), a power cell inverter, one or more battery cabinets, and batteries (between three and six per cabinet).
Solar panels must be bought and installed independently. To connect the Generac solar panels to the PWRcell system, you need to buy PV Link/Optimizers, which are units that connect the panels.
The PWR generator is an optional generator powered by gas or propane. It can be used to add energy to the stored energy when other energy sources are not available.
Is The Cost Of Generac Power Cell Worth It?
The Generac PWRcell has long-term benefits for its owners. Based on a 3,000-square-foot home in a sunny area, an average Generac PWRcell system with solar panels saves the homeowner over 66,000 in energy costs over 25 years.
The Generac PWRcell starts at 12,435, and the price increases as the battery size get bigger. This price only covers the cost of the battery itself, not things like installation or labor.
To figure out how much it will cost to install a battery, you can’t just look up the price of the battery on its own.
Installation costs can vary depending on how your electricity is set up. On the other hand, Generac says that a 9 kWh system and installation will cost about 18,000.
If you want to use the power cell as part of a solar-plus-storage system, the cost of the battery is only one part of the equation.
Depending on where you live and what equipment you choose, a 5 kW (kilowatt) solar energy system can cost anywhere from 9,000 to 15,000.
Even though that seems like a lot of money, installing a Generac power cell can be a good investment.
Whether or not you should get the Generac PWRcell depends on how your electric company sets up its rates and why you want to install a solar battery.
Depending on the place you live, you can get financial incentives to help lower the cost of installing energy storage in your home.
For example, if you live in California, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) will give you a cash rebate that will cover most of the cost of your home batteries.
Other states, like Massachusetts, are just starting to look at performance incentives for battery storage, and some states already offer cash rebates.
Why The Generac Power Cell Is Worth It
There are many good reasons to buy the Generac Power Cell Battery. In addition to being good for the environment, it will help you control your electric bill and even let you sell energy back to the grid.
Industry-leading efficiency and capacity
To stand out from Tesla and LG, the company decided to make a battery storage system that can power a whole house. This gives people more control over when they use their stored energy and makes sure there is enough power for times when there is a lot of demand.
On the other hand, many systems only store enough energy to cover half or two-thirds of your home’s needs, so you must use energy from outside sources during peak usage.
Generac PWRCell batteries are a step up from regular batteries. It’s a heavy-duty stationary lead-acid battery with features you won’t find anywhere else.
For example, it has the fastest charging and discharging rates in its class and can last up to twice as long as regular batteries. They also come with the best warranty, which is ten years.
It is eco-friendly
The PWRCell battery can be recycled repeatedly and has no heavy metals like lead or mercury. It has no corrosive acids like sulfuric acid, and it’s made for long-term use.
The Power Cell is a safe alternative to gas-powered generators that make exhaust fumes because it can be used inside without a vent. But the most important thing is that it is safe to use around kids and animals.
The battery is also made in a way that leaves no waste. It can be made without using heavy metals or dangerous materials. You can recycle every part of your PWRCell at places near you.
Sells extra energy back to the grid
The PWRCellTM System lets you use your generator for much more than backup power during blackouts. It lets you sell any extra energy back to the utility company.
Let’s say there’s an energy meter hooked up to your home. In that case, it can be connected to a PWRCell battery, automatically sending any extra solar energy you make back to the utility grid in your area.
Instead of paying a monthly fee, you can make money by turning sunlight into electricity.
There’s a free evaluation.
One of the reasons you should love Generac PWRCell is that they offer a free assessment service.
If you need help figuring out which generator is right for your home, you can ask for it. If that’s the case, they’ll send a technician to your house to figure out what you need and make suggestions based on what you want.
You can always buy a generator at a local store, but if you’re not sure how much power you need or what kind of generator is best for you, it’s always a good idea to talk to a professional.
When you have Generac PWRcell, you can be sure that you can count on it when you need power, like in an emergency.
Cuts down on electric bills and reliance on the grid
At first glance, a backup battery might seem like a waste of money. After all, why spend money on something you’ll only use when the power goes out?
Having one can save you a lot of money in many situations. For example, if your home gets its electricity from the grid and your area has a lot of blackouts, it makes sense to think about getting a backup system.
Let’s say you’re willing to pay for a system with enough parts. In that case, batteries can replace your need for electricity from the grid and save you thousands of dollars each year.
Downsides Of Generac Power Cell
Having seen the many advantages of a Generac power cell, let’s now look at the disadvantages. They include:
a. They are Expensive
One small problem with PWRCell is that it costs a little more than other products that perform the same function. But because it works so well, it is worth the cost.
Also, customer reviews say that if you buy directly from Generac, you can find a great deal and save a lot of money. So look out for sales on this item.
b. It Makes the transfer switch easier to use
A PWRcell unit has multiple batteries instead of a single large battery, like some transfer switches with backup power.
This means you’ll have to change your switch to make it work, which can be hard for some people. However, the transfer switch will be easier once you make the change.
c. It requires professional help
Before buying your PWRcell, you should know that only a trained professional can install it.
Most of the time, you’ll need to hire a company or person who has the right tools to do the job. Installing the battery is difficult; you need to know a lot about power systems and electrical work.
This means that it can cost a lot. Even if you already have a generator, you may still need to pay a professional to install it. Installation can cost 200 or more.
d. it Uses up space
The battery is big and occupies a lot of space when installed. This means you will have to find a place that is big enough for it and has enough airflow for it to function efficiently. It might also mean adding a place to store it in your garage or basement.
The installation is also a little tricky because of how heavy it is, so you may need professional help.
Also, if you move in the future, you will have to move it around. Most people don’t like to move their big appliances unless they have to.
Bottom-line
The Generac PWRCell Battery is a great addition to the emergency kit of any homeowner. This battery has a lot of power and can be used in many different situations. It works best for people who don’t have access to an electrical outlet or who live far from one.
You also don’t have to worry about using these batteries in bad weather. They are made to last and can be used repeatedly for many years. If you need a new battery, consider getting the Generac PWRCell battery.
Solar Backup Power: Generac PWRcell Review
As more business and homeowners turn to solar for their energy, many solar companies are investing in new ways to optimize system performance, further decrease consumer reliance on the grid, and provide reliable backup options during increasing instances of grid outages.
One of the most common and in-demand system upgrades is the installation of a solar battery. Due to the variety of backup power products, as we’ve covered in weeks past, figuring out the best battery for your home or business can present a challenge.
This week, we take a look at Generac’s PWRcell.
What is Generac?
An established leader in the backup power space, Generac recently unveiled its new line of backup batteries. Designed to accompany clean energy systems, these batteries store and distribute household energy generated by solar.
Key Features
As is common with most home battery systems, the PWRcell pairs with a new or existing solar panel system. With a FOCUS on power, Generac describes the PWRcell as “the most powerful residential battery on the market.” Other key features include:
- One of the largest energy storage capacities of any similar product on the market
- Stores energy during peak hours for use while the sun is down, saving customers money on utility bills
- Sells excess energy back to the utility grid
- PWRview app easily allows monitoring of battery production, energy consumption, and energy savings
- Enables pairing with an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) which seamlessly transitions home to backup power during an outage
- Smart Management Modules (SMMs) automatically manage power distribution during an outage, ensuring critical loads maintain power
- A modular design that allows expansion of storage capacity as power needs shift
Size
The biggest benefit of the Generac PWRcell is its size. Not only the raw power– but its scalable system which allows flexibility in its design. PWRcell’s system is modular, meaning that one can add or reduce multiple battery products to a storage setup as energy needs shift.
The PWRcell 17, the largest and most commonly installed battery of the Generac models, boasts the superior usable capacity to both its biggest competitors (the Tesla Powerwall and Enphase Encharge) at over 17 kWh. For scale, a typical A/C unit draws roughly 3 kW per hour of use.
So, if your decision comes down to which single battery will provide the greatest amount of backup power during an outage, look no further than the PWRcell.
Intelligence
Offered along with a PWRcell are the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and Smart Management Modules (SMMs). The ATS enables smooth and automatic transitions from grid power to the PWRcell’s backup reserve during an outage, preventing the need for manual transfers which can jeopardize the safety of a home. While Generac plans to soon allow for direct generator integration, it remains unavailable with current products.
Generac’s SMMs are uniquely advantageous because during an installation, customers don’t have to separate critical from non-critical loads. This means the PWRcell automatically knows when to stop sending power to certain appliances based on the level of power remaining in the battery and the energy level being drawn by specific appliances.
While the PWRcell’s intelligence automatically manages home energy to optimize efficiency and performance, you can monitor the performance of your battery on the PWRview app with real-time data. This allows you to:
- Easily keep tabs on energy consumption
- Track savings and energy expenses with history and forecasting tools
- Lower energy bills and avoid peak rates
- Gain greater independence from the grid
Performance Reliability
When considering the performance and reliability of a backup battery system, important metrics to note include the power, warranty, and capacity of a battery. The power and capacity of the PWRcell are well-touted, and as discussed, most sources confirm it as the most powerful battery of its kind on the market.
The warranty of a PWRcell 17 battery is valid for either 10 years or the amount of time it takes to cycle the specified amount of energy through the battery below. Most similar products have a 10-year warranty which guarantees a certain number of recharges, as opposed to Generac’s guaranteed energy yield.
How long will a full charge last?
- While having a backup battery system greatly lowers your reliance on the utility grid, no single battery will yield complete off-grid power for a home. Most single batteries will provide several hours’ worth of power. A PWRcell is large enough to serve as a temporary backup for a home during an outage. To be truly “off-grid,” though possible, would require the installation of multiple PWRcell batteries (typically 2 or 3, depending on the home).
The Bottom Line
If you prioritize power and capacity, then look no further than the PWRcell. Since power and capacity go hand in hand, the PWRcell yields the best of both. It’s ATS and SMMs provide effortless reliability to accompany this power, making the PWRcell an excellent backup option.