Hurricane season is here, and it looks like it’s going to be a bad one. Even though hurricanes don’t pound us as badly in New Jersey as they do down south, if you remember Sandy, Irene, or Ida, you know how much damage a hurricane can do in Jersey, especially along the shore. Intense rain, flooding, and wind damage can destroy property and knock out power for days or even weeks on end.
Power outages aren’t a big deal when they’re short, but when they last longer than a few hours, they can be dangerous, leaving you without refrigeration, heating and cooling, or a way to call for help in an emergency.
If you don’t already have a backup power system, now is the time to install one. Solar panels with battery backup is a solution that provides emergency backup power and makes you more resilient in the face of increasingly severe weather. Right now, you can save 30% on solar panel and battery installation with the federal solar tax credit.
Storms & Blackouts are a Growing Threat
A few weeks ago, Debby reminded us how significant the damage can be even from the remnants of a tropical storm and experts are predicting an intense Atlantic hurricane season in 2024. We’re likely to feel the effects of at least a few of the storms that hit the east coast this year, and we won’t get a respite at the end of hurricane season, either. As soon as it’s over, Nor’easters will start rolling through.
How Solar & Backup Power Helps in a Blackout
Solar panels with battery backup are a lifeline during a power outage.
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity. But they’re tied to the electric grid, and when the grid goes down, all grid-tied solar panels go down with it. The exception is solar panels with battery backup. A battery allows your solar panels to temporarily disconnect from the electric grid so they can stay on during a power outage. During a daytime outage, your solar panels will power your home as normal and charge your battery. At night, the battery will take over automatically and maintain power to essentials like your lights, refrigerator, and sump pump. You can easily monitor and control your battery with an app and decide what you want to use your backup power for.
A battery has limited storage capacity, so it can’t power everything in your home (unless you install multiple batteries). But solar with storage gives you incomparable independence and security during a disaster. Generators can keep your power on, but they need fuel to do so. If you run out of fuel and a delivery can’t get through because of the storm, you’ll be left in the dark. With solar and storage, you are completely self-reliant. As long as the sun rises every day, you will have power.
Solar Panel & Battery Installation in New Jersey
Having a reliable backup power source provides unparalleled security and peace of mind during storm season. NJ Solar Power can help you prepare now with solar panels and battery backup for your home. We are one of the oldest and most experienced solar companies in New Jersey and have installed thousands of solar energy systems. Reach out today to learn more about your options. We make it easy to upgrade your home with solar panels and battery backup!