One of the most fascinating aspects of the solar industry is how, now that a significant portion of the population sees the value in reducing fossil fuel use, a multiplicity of power solutions are developing, ranging from the utility – community level right on down to systems ideal for van living and tiny homes.
Solar Powered Backup Generators
Here in Massachusetts, and indeed throughout many parts of the country, having a backup generator is a sensible way to provide electricity during power outages. The backup generators many people are familiar with operate on gasoline or propane. However, there is an alternative – solar powered backup generators.
Solar powered backup generators function in the same way other backup generators do. They come on automatically when the power goes out, providing enough electricity to power all of your home’s essentials. The important difference is that instead of using fossil fuels, solar powered backup generators are fueled by the sun.
Why is this important? Well, in the event of a prolonged, widespread outage – such as might happen after a tropical storm, hurricane, or blizzard – getting gasoline to keep the generator running can be a challenge. A full tank of gas on the typical household generator will provide power for up to 12 hours. After that, you need to get more gas – and so does every other homeowner with a generator who’s in the same situation!
The solar powered backup generator eliminates the need to worry about fuel. Having the solar panels installed to fuel a backup generator is a smaller financial commitment than having whole house solar installed. Additionally, having solar panels installed for a backup generator may be a more pragmatic option in areas with limited exposure.
To find out more about the many ways it’s possible to go solar, talk to your local solar installation experts.
