If you’re considering purchasing a solar-plus-storage system, you’re probably contemplating the “what ifs”: what if my battery isn’t performing properly? What if my battery stops working altogether? The good news is that battery technology is highly reliable, which is why it’s sometimes difficult to find answers to these questions. In this article, we’ll cover some common questions you may have about solar batteries to help you make an informed decision about including storage with your solar system.
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Should I install a solar battery now, or add it later?
Energy storage is the rising star of renewable energy. And with this popularity comes an increasingly common question: should I install a battery with my solar panel system now? Or, should I wait and add one later on? In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most important factors to consider when making that decision.
Continue readingWhat are the best solar batteries available? Top brands and products of 2022 compared
Storage systems are becoming increasingly attractive home upgrades for homeowners across the country. Whether you’re looking for self-consumption, rate arbitrage during peak hours, or back-up power in case of emergencies, storage systems can provide greater independence, resiliency, and savings–especially if you have solar panels and live in a state without net metering.
Because storage systems have become so popular, many companies are now in the market, making it more challenging to compare and decide between the different brands and products available. In this article, we’ll explain some of the most important factors for comparing solar batteries and we’ll discuss some of the best brands and products available now.
Continue readingThe Enphase IQ Battery: the complete review
Enphase is one of the biggest names in solar inverter technology, and in 2019 the company announced its foray into energy storage with the Enphase Encharge, which was rebranded as the Enphase IQ Battery in 2021.
Continue readingThe Blue Planet Energy Blue Ion HI complete review
Blue Planet Energy is a US-based battery manufacturer on a mission to eliminate the use of carbon-based fuels while powering the world with reliable, affordable, clean energy. Their Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) batteries boast safety and are backed by leading warranties, making them compelling products for anyone looking to install a battery system. Their newest product, the Blue Ion HI, is a powerful, safe, and sleek battery system built in the USA that pairs well with solar panel systems.
Continue readingThe SunPower SunVault storage system complete review
SunPower has always been known for its top-tier solar panels – now, they’re expanding their influence in the energy storage space. In 2019, the company launched their first home solar battery: the Equinox Storage system. Now rebranded as the SunVault Storage system, this battery and software solution, when paired with a SunPower Equinox solar panel system, enables you to keep your lights on during power outages and manage your home’s electricity use.
Continue readingThe Generac PWRcell home battery complete review
In 2019, Generac acquired battery manufacturer Pika Energy, and has since integrated their technology into the launch of their own Generac-branded home storage solution: the Generac PWRcell. Having long been a leader in the backup power space, Generac is now moving into clean energy and energy storage, with the PWRcell line of batteries at the forefront of their new product fleet.
Continue readingThe Electriq PowerPod 2 complete review
Electriq Power is a San Leandro, California-based energy storage company that designs and engineers its storage systems in the United States. Electriq’s original product, the PowerPod 1, includes a battery, hybrid battery/solar inverter, home energy management system, and an energy meter. Their newest product, the PowerPod 2, has a different chemistry and upgraded technical specifications that build on their already impressive storage system.
Continue readingThe LG RESU Prime complete review
LG is one of the biggest names in energy storage. Their original battery, the RESU, is one of the most popular models in the industry. Now, their newest model–RESU Prime–is out; it’s a fully integrated energy storage system that includes an inverter and smart energy management software at a more compact size than the original. If you have solar on your property and install a home battery like the RESU Prime, you can store excess solar electricity to use later in the day or during power outages. As a result, properties with solar-plus-storage can increase their total monthly savings in certain markets.
Continue readingThe sonnen ecoLinx home battery complete review
Battery maker sonnen’s “luxury” battery offering – the ecoLinx – is more than just an energy storage device: the ecoLinx syncs your entire property’s energy usage together to efficiently and intelligently manage how you use energy in your home, all without disrupting your lifestyle. Especially when combined with a solar energy system, the sonnen ecoLinx is a powerful and smart home energy management system. (Note: check out our review of sonnen’s other primary product line–the eco–here.)
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