The storm hits… the grid goes down… and the power goes out.
In the past, homeowners had two options: fire up the generator and hope the diesel lasts until the electricity comes back on, or simply wait out the storm. Today, there’s a better option: home energy storage.
Home energy storage systems allow homeowners to reserve the energy they generate through renewable sources. That stored energy can then be used when the grid — or even just the sun — goes down.
Home Energy Storage Options
In most cases, stored energy is generated from solar PV panels. Residences generate electricity while the sun is shining, which (of course) coincides with workday hours. During this time of day, most homes consume less electricity.
The generated energy that’s not used is stored in lithium ion “smart” batteries. After sundown, more residents are home, so they consume more power… and that means demand on the power grid peaks. Homes with energy storage system can then draw upon the energy that was generated during daylight hours.
Home Energy Storage Benefits
Home storage systems reduce the burden on the grid during peak demand hours. They also help reduce grid loss, or the unavoidable “leaks” that take place when energy is transmitted from generating stations to population centers.
In addition, home energy storage allows homeowners to be self-sufficient in the case of power outages. This means consumers don’t have to turn to inefficient energy sources, such as diesel generators, when storms or natural disasters occur.
Overall, the widespread use of home energy storage system means less reliance on non-renewable energy sources, such coal, natural gas and other fossil fuels.
By implementing home energy storage, homeowners enjoy a number of advantages, from lower utility bills to improved resilience.
