Climate change has created unpredictability around the world. From intense hurricanes to unprecedented heatwaves, climate change is causing unpredictable weather patterns. We are bracing ourselves for the unexpected events that may occur as the weather warms up and the winter melts. This is especially true during the wildfire season. Californians, who are often at the heart of the chaos, will be focused on one thing: when will there be another power outage?
Solar batteries have become increasingly popular in recent years. These batteries can give homeowners peace of mind and even help them get through the public safety power shutdowns (PSPS) during wildfire season. Solar + storage is a relatively new technology, and many misconceptions exist.
We’ll help you discover the truth from the myths about solar storage.
Solar Battery Storage isn’t affordable
The latest technology can be expensive. Solar batteries were more costly in the early days of this product, but many things have changed since then to make them more affordable.
The Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2011, has also extended the tax credit for solar investments. The law was designed to make renewable energy more accessible, and it does that by focusing on standalone storage.
Local incentive programs can be helpful. Californians can benefit from higher returns when they use a SunVault solar storage system to control when solar energy is used during high demand. SunVault users can decide how much energy they want their solar battery to store. This can be done through the mySunPower mobile app.
Solar battery storage doesn’t provide long-term backup power
We noticed a common thread when we scanned through the most frequently asked questions we get from homeowners. Most homeowners need to know how long their solar batteries can power up their homes in the event of rolling blackouts and power outages. Understandably, homeowners are curious about the duration of time it takes a solar battery to power their essential appliances. The lifespan of your solar battery is affected by several factors:
How big is your solar energy storage system? You can estimate its lifespan by knowing how much solar energy it can store.
How much energy was stored in your solar battery before the power failure? The battery’s charge could impact how long your solar system can power your home.
How do you use the energy you have stored? You can use your stored power for longer if you only discharge the battery when needed.
If you have the right conditions in place, your solar battery will last for a long time, even if there is no power. This is especially true if the battery is recharged during the day. SunVault offers more charging cycles than other storage systems. This gives you the best chance to stay powered.
Solar Battery Storage Isn’t Available In Certain Climates
Solar + storage systems such as SunVault can withstand various weather conditions. They can handle changing weather conditions. Although we recommend an indoor installation in a garage or similar location, homeowners have other options. Outdoor facilities can be done in shaded areas with temperatures between 15-110deg F. They should also be protected from extreme weather.
Solar storage systems can be adapted to a variety of climates. This myth should not stop you from being prepared for Mother Nature.
Solar Battery Storage Isn’t Safe
Solar batteries are not made equal. Some materials are safer than others. SunVault is designed with safety as a priority. Safety is our top priority at SunPower.
SunVault uses Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry (LPF), a safer option than other options on the market. LPF batteries are known for their stability and lower operating temperatures.
Solar Battery Storage is Loud
The SunVault system can emit up to 50 dBA of sound when it charges during the day. This level of sound is considered to be light and sounds similar to the hum from your refrigerator. The amount of solar energy converted into sound can affect the buzzing noise you hear from your SunVault.
SunVault has an additional fan-based cooling device that can be activated during operation or when ambient temperatures are high.
Solar + storage offers homeowners many benefits, including peace of mind during power outages. It can also save them money on utility bills. Solar batteries are also much more environmentally friendly than generators. It’s easy to understand why so many Americans have adopted solar + storage.