Maximizing Energy Independence: Integrating Solar Panels With Battery Storage

Solar power has been on the rise across the United States in the last few years, thanks to the availability of affordable equipment and labor. Government incentives have also increased adoption in all states.

Homeowners and businesses nationwide now see the benefits of installing high-efficiency solar panels. Apart from reducing individual carbon footprints, these installations will lead to a lot of financial benefits.

Switching to solar also allows households and commercial spaces to function independently from the local grid.

What does this mean? Let’s take a closer look.

How Does Solar Increase Energy Independence?

When an individual or business fulfills all of its energy needs without relying on the grid or other non-renewable sources, they are said to have achieved energy independence.

On a macro level, this is done when a nation exports more energy commodities—such as coal and natural gas—than it imports.

The United States was declared energy independent in 2019, which was largely made possible thanks to the rise of solar power.

Why Is Energy Independence Important?

There are several reasons to seek energy independence.

On an individual level, the benefits of solar power at home include lower utility bills, reduced reliance on the grid, and a diminished carbon footprint. On a national level, solar power has gone a long way in combating the ongoing climate crisis.

But to truly achieve solar energy independence, it isn’t enough to simply install fully functioning solar panels. Because the intensity of sunlight isn’t consistent across the country, it’s hard to maximize the potential of solar power without one crucial tool: solar power battery storage.

The Role of Solar Storage

Residential solar panels rely on solar battery storage systems to store excess energy generated during the day. In the US, storage is seen as a crucial component of such a system—most parts of the country do not receive consistent sunlight all year long.

The best way to achieve energy independence with solar is with a robust renewable system: combining solar PVs with batteries.

The falling costs and increased efficiency and durability of solar energy storage systems have made this model an affordable option for many.

Excess energy generated during the day can be stored in these batteries and used during periods with low solar generation, at night, or during grid outages. This energy can be used to ensure a continuous power supply for homes. Businesses, too, can benefit from this uninterrupted energy supply, improving productivity, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

How To Choose the Right Solar Storage System

In order to truly be energy independent, you need an energy storage system that suits your needs. Some factors to consider include:

Capacity

How much sunlight does your roof get in a day? What are the weather conditions in your location? How much energy will you need to cut off reliance on the grid entirely? And most importantly, how do solar panels work to deliver the power you need?

The answer to these questions will influence the capacity of the storage system and every other element of solar panel installation.

Durability

You must make sure that your system runs efficiently for as long as possible. To reduce reliance on the grid, shop around for reputable brands that use high-quality parts.

Look for factors like the battery’s depth of discharge, cyclic life, and the temperature of the area where it will be installed.

Compatibility

To ensure the most efficient use of battery storage for solar, opt for a system that seamlessly integrates with your solar panels. Making such decisions will require some expertise; worry not, as a professional solar company will be more than willing to help you with these technical details.

Cost

One of the biggest advantages of a solar battery backup system is that it will help you save on your utility bills. However, this would only make sense if you opt for solar power battery storage that suits your budget.

Batteries cost between $200 and $500 per KWh. Depending on your needs, you may have to plan for a significant initial investment. Fortunately, the federal tax credit also covers the cost of storage setups—in 2023, it includes up to 30% of all expenses.

For a better idea of how much this will cost, check out this solar panel cost calculator.

Battery

Another essential factor that impacts the choice of battery is its type. Depending on your budget and your needs, you could choose one of the following:

• Lead-acid batteries
• Lithium-ion
• Redox flow
• Sodium nickel chloride

Other Benefits of a Battery Storage System

There are many reasons to install a solar system with a battery:

• Reduced carbon footprint: When you cut off all reliance on your local grid, you will no longer need fossil fuels for energy. According to the United Nations, they are responsible for over 75% of all global greenhouse gas emissions.
• Clean backup power: During power outages, most of us rely on diesel-powered generators. With a robust solar system and battery, you have uninterrupted access to clean and noise-free energy, even during extended blackouts.
• Save on energy bills: Most people who make the switch to solar still rely on the grid, largely because their panels cannot generate energy at night and aren’t as efficient in the winter months. But when you have a battery, you can store energy for the future and be free from the rising costs of local utilities.

The Bottom Line: Achieve Energy Independence with AMECO

To achieve true solar power energy independence, it is essential to embrace this renewable form of energy and do it right.

Simply installing a few panels can help you save on some costs. Still, to truly cut your reliance on fossil fuels for good and maximize on the potential of solar energy, there’s no better investment than a battery.

AMECO, a leading solar company in California, will gladly show you the way. For almost 50 years, we have provided our customers with renewable and sustainable energy solutions that help them deal with the frustrations that come from blackouts and spikes in energy rates. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!