Solar or Generator? Should I get solar panels or a generator for my home? Is solar power or generator power better? These are some of the questions homeowners have been asking among the constant changes in load shedding stages. Finding the right solution for your home means peace of mind, knowing your household will keep running even if the grid goes down. So solar or generator? InPower Solar Specialists have the answer.
What is a Solar Battery Backup?
During loadshedding, a solar-powered battery backup system draws stored energy from batteries to power your home with no interruptions or downtime. Excess energy produced by the solar power system is stored and used when the power is out. The system's batteries are charged by a connection to the home’s solar energy system.
A solar power system is popular because it is reliable, quiet and environmentally friendly.
Pros of a solar battery backup system
Weighing up the pros and cons of a backup power system can help in the decision making process. We have done this for you:
- Battery backup systems operate almost silently.
- Solar power systems operate seamlessly during loadshedding.
- Battery backup systems run entirely on renewable energy when combined with solar panels.
- Battery backup systems increase your home’s daily solar consumption.
- Installing a battery backup system can increase the value of your home.
- Some systems qualify for tax rebates.
- Battery backup systems are low maintenance and have a long lifespan.
Solar Panels
While thinking about investing in a solar power system, decide what it is you want from a backup or alternative power solution. Reducing your current monthly electricity bill? Incorporate alternative energy in your home? Solar panels do this and more, including being able to claim a 25% subsidy on solar power purchases of up to R60,000. Not forgetting the increase in the value of your property and even better, No more paying Eskom for electricity!
Like any alternative energy system, cons will exist, luckily, for solar, only two come to mind for us,
- Higher upfront cost.
- Systems have limited power capacity.
InPower’s Solar financing solution can eliminate one of these cons entirely!
What is a Generator?
Generators are the backup power system most people are familiar with. Most generators run on liquid propane, natural gas, or diesel. Generators, come in varying sizes and require regular maintenance, which typically includes small recurring costs. And during times of loadshedding, this can become excessive, i.e., regular diesel refuelling.
Generators also produce a loud sound when they are running and exhaust fumes, which are harmful to the environment. Despite this, they have a low upfront cost and, if maintained regularly, can last for more than 10 years.
Pros of a generator system
PROS
- Generators are more affordable upfront than solar batteries.
- Generators are easy to connect to existing natural gas lines.
- Generators can provide round-the-clock power, if they have an ample fuel supply
- Generators are available in a variety of sizes, from small, portable units to whole-home systems.
CONS
- Generators are noisy.
- Generators create hazardous emissions, an unpleasant smell, and a high carbon footprint.
- All generators require annual and monthly maintenance.
- Generators require fuel to operate, which means they are not eco-friendly.
- If not used, the fuel in a generator can go stale, causing equipment failure, resulting in additional repair costs.
Solar vs Generator
- Solar power systems operate seamlessly during loadshedding.
- Battery backup systems operate almost silently.
- Battery backup systems are low maintenance and have a long lifespan.
- Generators are more affordable upfront than solar batteries.
- Generators are easy to connect to existing natural gas lines.
- Generators can provide round-the-clock power, if they have an ample fuel supply
CONS
- Battery backup systems run entirely on renewable energy when combined with solar panels.
- Generators require fuel to operate, which means they are not eco-friendly.
Solar vs Generator cost breakdown
The cost of installing a solar power system will depend on the size of the home and it’s energy needs.
InPower’s 3kw solar power system kit includes 1x 5kW Sunsynk Inverter; 6x 455W JA Solar panels; 6x Panel Mountings; 1x 5.5kW Hubble AM2 and starts from R146 900. This includes the cost of installation! Current incentives and rebates can help significantly reduce this cost.
In comparison, the IVECO 7kVA 3phase diesel generator, costs R15 000 ex VAT, to purchase but the cost increases significantly when factoring in fuel, maintenance and parts replacements/upgrades.
Battery backup systems offer long-term savings that generators don’t, over time, this will save you thousands of rands on your electric bill.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.21.0" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"]
It is possible to replace a lead acid battery with a lithium-ion battery. It is also important to consider factors such as voltage compatibility, charging and discharging parameters, and overall system compatibility to ensure a seamless transition. InPower’s solar power specialists are able to advise on the best lithium-ion battery replacement solutions.
Solar and Backup power
Solar installations with backup power offer a sustainable, reliable, and uninterrupted power supply for homes and businesses while reducing reliance on the grid.
Inverter vs Generator
Inverters are better suited to residential use and activities because they prioritise clean power and are not noise polluters. Alternatively, generators work better for larger-scale power needs, particularly for businesses that require high power output and continuous operation during outages.
Which backup power system works best for your home and your business
Are panels worth it?
Solar installation offers long-term energy savings. Generating electricity from sunlight means drastically reducing or even eliminating reliance on grid electricity.
How your solar power system can work for you
The best solar finance in the country
Investing in backup power depends on the power needs. Financing these needs means understanding the financial capabilities. Financing your solar power system with InPower is the smart decision for your wallet and the environment.
