Back Up power solutions
During the recent PG&E shut-offs we have received many inquires into batteries, generators, and other power security solutions. So we have made this brief summary to go over a couple of basic options for back up power in a power outage.
Situation 1:
I just want the cheapest way to temporarily get some power to a couple of critical appliances.
Solution 1:
Propane/Gas powered Generator or Battery Based Generator.
This temporary solution involves having extension cords running from the generator to fridge or appliances that you want powered.
Small gas powered generators: Can cost $500 and up, excluding fuel costs.
Small standalone Battery based generators: Can cost $3,000-$6,000 and up and can include a small separate solar panel which can be plugged in to recharge the battery.
We recommend: Goal Zero for standalone Battery based generators.
If this is the direction you would like to explore, we do not install generators, but here are a few local generator installers we recommend:
Precision Electric – (530) 274-3438
Pegv.net
Karl Sherry Electric – (530) 432-7566
KarlsherryElectric.com
C.A.S.E Contracting Inc. – (530) 575-6838
CaseContractingInc.com
Sola Williams – (530) 305-5851
Situation 2:
I want power for most of, or all of, my home for an extended period of time.
Solution 2:
Whole House Generator or Solar Charged Battery Back Up.
This more permanent solution involves tying into the homes electrical panel.
To use a Generator if you have Solar, an electrician needs to make sure the generator is electrically separated from the solar circuit with a Transfer Switch, or it could cause catastrophic damage. We can install a manual transfer switch starting at around $2,000. This would involve one of our electricians doing a site survey to determine if there would be any additional costs. The cost of the generator will vary from home to home. We can recommend a local generator specialist to help you.
If you have Solar and want a Battery Back Up, the smallest systems we recommend start at $18,000-$25,000 for limited battery back up that can be recharged by your solar or a generator. If you are interested in a solar rechargeable battery based system please let us know, and we would be happy to go over the details with you.
In most cases a battery system can be eligible for the 30% Federal Tax Credit. Please consult with your CPA to make sure you qualify.
If you are interested in seriously exploring Situation 2 you can fill out the online form here, or call (530) 274-3671 and ask to speak with one of our qualified solar designers today.
Proudly serving communities across Northern California and beyond, we’re here to help you with all your renewable energy needs. Our service areas include Grass Valley, CA, Auburn, CA, Loomis, CA, Granite Bay, CA, Lincoln, CA, Rocklin, CA, Roseville, CA, Cameron Park, CA, Diamond Springs, CA, Placerville, CA, Pollock Pines, CA, El Dorado Hills, CA, Truckee, CA, Tahoe City, CA, and South Lake Tahoe, CA. Contact us today to learn more about our residential solar solutions, such as a solar powered system, backup batteries/battery storage, smart energy management, home standby generators, electrical vehicle chargers, and solar system servicing (system check & repair) available in your community.