Battery backup systems are becoming an increasingly popular solution for homeowners and businesses seeking energy resilience and efficiency. These systems provide stored energy that can be used during power outages or times of high electricity costs. With extreme weather events and rising energy prices, having a reliable backup power source is more critical than ever. This guide will help you determine whether battery backup is right for your needs by exploring the key benefits, considerations, and alternatives.
Table of Contents:
- How Battery Backup Works
- Benefits of Battery Backup
- Cost of Battery Backup
- Battery Backup Incentives
- How Many Batteries Do I Need?
- Who Benefits Most from Battery Backup?
- Steps to Decide if Battery Backup is Right for You
- Battery Backup Case Studies
- Top Battery Backup Brands & Options
- Questions to Ask a Solar or Energy Provider
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
See how battery backup could benefit you + get a free battery quote. Learn how many batteries you might need.

How Battery Backup Works
- Battery backup systems store excess DC (direct current) power that is generated by solar panels. These batteries can also be charged by the utility grid.
Note: battery backup does not require solar panels to charge. Standalone battery backup can be charged from just the utility grid. - When needed, the battery backup sends DC power to the inverter, which converts the DC power to AC (alternating current) power for use inside the home. Learn more about the different types of inverters.
- When solar panels or battery backup are not enough to power the home, the utility grid can provide power.
- In certain situations and setups, battery backup power can be used by the utility grid in times of peak power demand.
- The exchange between the solar panels, utility grid, and home flow through and tracked by a net-meter. A net-meter allows homeowners to receive credit for excess solar and battery energy they provide to the utility grid. Learn more about net-metering and how net-meters work.
Battery backup systems store energy for later use, acting as a power reservoir for your home or business. These systems work by charging batteries using excess energy generated either by solar panels or directly from the utility grid. During a power outage or periods of high energy demand, the battery discharges the stored energy to supply power, ensuring continuous operation of essential appliances and systems. Modern battery systems are equipped with smart technology, which allows them to seamlessly switch between charging, storing, and discharging based on real-time energy needs.
When integrated with solar panels, battery backups utilize surplus solar energy generated during the day. Instead of sending this excess power back to the grid, the energy is stored in the battery for later use, such as nighttime or during a grid outage. This not only maximizes the use of renewable energy but also enhances energy independence. In some cases, these systems can operate entirely off-grid, making them an ideal choice for remote locations or those looking for complete grid independence.
Battery backup systems also work effectively with the utility grid. During off-peak hours, when electricity rates are lower, the battery charges using grid power. This stored energy can then be used during peak hours when electricity costs are higher, providing significant savings. Additionally, in the event of a grid outage, the battery ensures uninterrupted power by discharging its stored energy, offering a reliable alternative to traditional backup generators.

Benefits of Battery Backup
Battery backup systems offer a wide range of benefits in terms of energy independence, cost savings, and environmental impact. Some of these benefits are obvious, like being safe during power outages, but others are less expected, like increasing home value and taking full advantage of utility pricing models.
Resilience in Emergencies
Battery backup can keep critical systems like refrigerators, medical devices, and communication tools operational during blackouts. In particular, these systems allow families to maintain climate controls like heating and cooling, preserve perishable food, maintain access to necessary healthcare equipment, and stay connected with the outside world during emergencies, which is critical for safety and well-being.
Time-of-Use (TOU) Optimization
In areas that use Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing, where utility prices vary based on demand, battery backup can store energy during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower, and use it during peak hours to reduce costs. This strategy not only helps homeowners save money on electricity bills but also enables them to better manage energy resources by avoiding higher charges during peak demand times.
Net-Metering Savings
Many utility companies offer net-metering, where a solar homeowners receives energy credits when their solar panels produce more power than the home uses and send excess power to the utility grid. Sometimes the net-metering benefit if a 1:1 credit, where the solar homeowner receives 1kWh of credit for every 1kWh they send to the grid. But sometimes utilities offer a lower or no net-metering credit.
If a utility offers low or no net-metering benefits, battery backup can help maximize your solar savings. Instead of sending excess solar energy to the grid and getting little or no benefit from the utility, homeowners can store their excess solar energy and use it to offset their energy consumption. Learn more about net-metering.
Enhanced Reliability
Modern batteries offer a seamless transition during power loss, ensuring uninterrupted operations. Unlike older technologies, these systems activate instantly and automatically, providing stable power without requiring manual intervention, making them highly dependable in any situation. Additionally, unlike gas diesel generators, battery backup doesn’t require regular maintenance checks or refueling to ensure they work properly. Learn about the pros and cons of battery backup vs. generators.
Enhanced Safety
Along with keeping families safe and sound during power outages, battery backup systems are also generally much safer than older backup solutions, like generators. Gas and diesel generators can produce noxious and toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide, posing health risks. Also, gas and diesel are flammable, which pose fire risks. Learn about the pros and cons of battery backup vs. generators.
Increases Home Value
Battery backup systems can increase a home’s value and its resale appeal. With the increase in natural disaster, utility grid blackouts, and Time-of-Use energy prices, homebuyers are finding greater need for battery backup systems. Homes that include battery backup systems can be more appealing to homebuyers and increase a home’s sale value.
Environmental Benefits:
Storing solar energy in battery backup enhances its efficiency, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and lowering your carbon footprint. Battery backups make clean energy more reliable and accessible, enabling broader adoption of renewable energy solutions.
See how battery backup could benefit you + get a free battery quote. Learn how many batteries you might need.
How Much Do Battery Backup Systems Cost?
The cost of a battery backup system can vary widely based on factors such as battery capacity, brand, installation requirements, and integration with solar panels. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
Upfront Costs
- Battery + Install Costs: Lithium-ion batteries, the most common choice for residential systems, typically range from $7,000 to $15,000 per unit. Lead-acid batteries, while cheaper, may cost between $2,000 and $5,000 but require more frequent replacements. Professional installation of battery backup systems can add $2,000 to $8,000 depending on the complexity of the setup.
However, if you install solar at the same time, you can combine the costs and save more. By installing solar panels and batter backup at the same time, your project can potentially be completed together by the same crew. Installer crews and electricians often have the capability to install both solar panels and battery backup, allowing you to combine the labor costs and save money.
Long-Term Costs and Savings
- Maintenance: Modern batteries, especially lithium-ion, have minimal maintenance costs. However, it’s important to factor in potential replacements for components like inverters, which may last 10-15 years.
- Energy Savings: By reducing reliance on the grid and leveraging time-of-use (TOU) rates, homeowners who install battery backup can save hundreds to thousands of dollars annually.
- Saved Goods and Products: Battery backup systems help preserve perishable items like food and medicine during outages. This can be particularly valuable in regions prone to natural disasters or extended power disruptions. Keeping refrigerators and freezers operational not only prevents financial loss but also avoids the inconvenience and safety risks associated with spoiled items.
- Safety and Peace of Mind: The assurance that critical systems like medical devices, security systems, heating and cooling, and lighting will function during a power outage brings peace of mind to homeowners. Knowing that these essential systems will remain operational, regardless of grid conditions, can significantly reduce anxiety and provide peace of mind that you, your family, and/or your business will be safe, sound, and operatoinal during power outages.
Get a battery backup quote today. See how much battery backup might cost and how it could benefit you, your family, and/or your business.
Battery Backup Incentives
Battery backup systems are becoming increasingly affordable, thanks to a variety of incentives designed to offset installation costs. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC, aka Solar Tax Credit) is one of the most notable incentive programs, allowing homeowners and businesses to deduct 30% of their system’s cost from their taxes. The Solar Tax Credit (ITC) was updated in 2022 to include battery backup incentives. State and local governments may also offer rebates or grants for battery installations, further reducing upfront expenses.
Additionally, some utility companies provide programs that offer financial incentives or credits for installing battery backup systems, especially when paired with solar panels. Net metering programs may allow you to sell excess energy stored in your battery back to the grid, creating another opportunity for savings. These incentives, combined with long-term energy bill reductions, make battery backup systems a financially smart choice for many.
Some utilities also offer incentives for installing battery backup and having access to its power during peak demand. For instance, Bring Your Own Battery (BYOB) programs will pay homeowners a certain rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of battery capacity installed. In exchange, the utility can use power from the home’s battery backup system during times of peak or emergency energy demand. This is very similar to Virtual Power Plants (VPP), which is a collective of home solar and battery backup systems that can be controlled and access by the utility company during times of peak or emergency energy demand.
Use our Incentives Guide to earn more about battery backup and solar incentives.

How Many Batteries Do I Need?
To determine how many batteries your home or business needs, follow these steps:
- Begin by calculating your daily energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). You can find this information on your utility bills or by summing up the energy usage of your appliances.
- Identify the essential appliances and systems you want to power during an outage, such as refrigerators, lighting, medical equipment, and heating or cooling systems. Estimate their combined energy usage in kWh.
- Determine how long you want the battery system to supply power during an outage. Multiply your essential energy usage by the number of hours you need backup power.
- Check the capacity of modern lithium-ion batteries, which typically range from 10 to 13.5 kWh per unit. Divide your total energy requirement by the capacity of a single battery to calculate the number of batteries needed.
- If you have solar panels, consider the amount of excess solar energy your system generates and can store. This may influence the number of batteries required to maximize energy storage.
- Consult with a professional installer to confirm your calculations and ensure the system meets your specific needs, optimizing both efficiency and costs.
Contact Green Ridge Solar to see how many batteries you need. Their battery and solar experts can answer all your questions and provide a free estimate.
See how battery backup could benefit you + get a free battery quote. Learn how many batteries you might need.
Who Benefits Most from Battery Backup?
Not all households and businesses have the same energy demands or face the same challenges. This section identifies the groups that stand to gain the most from investing in a battery backup system, helping you assess whether it aligns with your situation.
- Homeowners in Outage-Prone Areas: Frequent outages due to severe weather or unreliable infrastructure make battery backups essential. For instance, during hurricanes, wildfires, or winter storms, these systems ensure power continuity for critical devices such as heating systems, medical equipment, and communication tools, providing safety and comfort in emergencies.
- Energy Independence Seekers: For those looking to reduce reliance on utility companies, battery backups offer a pathway to greater autonomy. By storing energy generated from solar panels or during low-demand periods, users can minimize dependence on the grid and insulate themselves from rising electricity rates and utility outages.
- Solar Panel Owners: Storing excess solar energy increases system efficiency and ensures power availability even when the sun isn’t shining. This capability maximizes the return on investment in solar panels by utilizing all generated power and reducing reliance on grid electricity during nighttime or cloudy days.
- High-Cost Energy Users: Households with time-of-use billing structures or high electricity costs benefit significantly from peak-shaving capabilities. By discharging stored energy during peak rate periods, homeowners can dramatically lower their electricity bills and achieve greater financial efficiency over time.
Could you, your family, or your business benefit from battery backup? Chat with our battery backup experts to learn more and get your free quote.
Steps to Decide if Battery Backup is Right for You
Making an informed decision about battery backup requires careful evaluation and research. This section outlines the actionable steps you can take to determine if this investment is suitable for your energy needs and goals.
- Conduct a Home Energy Audit: Use tools or consult professionals to analyze your energy consumption patterns. Start by examining your electricity bills to identify high-usage periods and seasonal variations. Tools like smart meters and energy tracking apps can provide real-time data on your energy usage, offering insights into how much power you consume daily and during peak hours. For a more detailed analysis, consider hiring a professional energy auditor who can pinpoint inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
- Research Incentives: Investigate federal, state, and local programs that may offset installation costs. Federal tax credits like the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce costs significantly, and many states offer additional rebates or performance-based incentives. Local utilities might provide grants or discounts for installing energy storage systems, making this step essential for maximizing your financial savings.
- Consult Professionals: Seek advice from certified solar and energy storage providers to design a system tailored to your needs. Reputable professionals can assess your home’s energy requirements, recommend compatible products, and ensure proper installation. Additionally, they can provide cost estimates and help you navigate financing options, ensuring that the system meets both your budget and energy goals.
- Review Case Studies: Learn from testimonials or case studies of similar households or businesses. Look for examples of setups in your area or with comparable energy needs to understand the practical benefits and challenges others have experienced. Case studies often highlight real-world cost savings, performance metrics, and insights into the installation process, providing valuable guidance for your decision-making process.
Battery Backup Case Studies
-
Solar Panels + Battery Backup for Home in Sherwood
Lori and her family were tired of their $180+ PGE bill each month in Sherwood, Oregon. And with Portland General Electric (PGE) price hikes the last few years (and more to come), it was only getting more expensive to power their home. She and her family decided to take matters into their own hands and…
-
Solar Panels + Battery Backup for New Home in Oregon City
When this Oregon City coupled moved into their new home, they didn’t expect their Portland General Electric (PGE) bills to be so high! They were paying over $300 a month on energy bills! They decided to take matter into their own hands and install solar panels. Their new solar panels will produce an est. 100%…
-
Winery in Cornelius, Oregon, Installs Solar Panels
Elk Cove Vineyards and Winery in Cornelius, Oregon, wanted to know if solar panels could reduce their HUGE energy bills. Their PGE energy bills were over $1,000 per month! After all, wineries and vineyards use a lot of energy to produce wine and other products. Learn how wineries and vineyards benefit from solar energy. We…
See more battery backup installations & solar panels projects

Top Battery Backup Brands & Options
When choosing a battery backup system, selecting the right brand and product is crucial for meeting your energy needs and ensuring reliability. Here are some of the top options available on the market today:
SolarEdge Home Battery: The SolarEdge Home Battery is specifically designed to integrate with SolarEdge’s inverter technology, offering a seamless solution for solar and storage. With a usable capacity of 9.7 kWh and high efficiency, it’s an excellent choice for homeowners seeking an optimized, all-in-one energy solution.
Tesla Powerwall: The Tesla Powerwall is one of the most popular choices for residential battery backup systems. With a capacity of 13.5 kWh, it is designed to integrate seamlessly with solar panels and offers features like real-time monitoring and time-based control. Its compact design and reliable performance make it a standout option.
LG Prime: The LG Prime battery series offers higher capacity and enhanced performance compared to earlier models like the LG Chem RESU. With advanced lithium-ion technology and capacities up to 16 kWh, LG Prime is designed for both residential and commercial applications, delivering reliable and efficient energy storage for various needs.
Enphase IQ Batteries: Enphase’s IQ Batteries offer a modular and scalable solution for energy storage. With capacities ranging from 3.5 kWh to 10 kWh per unit, these batteries are designed to integrate seamlessly with Enphase microinverters and solar setups. They provide reliable backup power and smart energy management for both residential and commercial applications.
sonnenCore+ and sonnenEvo: sonnen continues to lead the market with its innovative battery solutions. The sonnenCore+ offers usable capacity up to 20kWh and exceptional reliability with smart energy management for residential applications, while the sonnenEvo is tailored for both residential and small commercial needs, providing usable capacity of 10kWh per unit and scalable energy storage with advanced features for long-term durability and efficiency. Both systems reflect sonnen’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Generac PWRcell: The Generac PWRcell system is a powerful option for whole-home backup. With usable capacity of 18kWh and scalable capacity options, this system can meet the needs of larger homes or businesses. It pairs well with Generac’s generators for added reliability.
These battery backup systems offer a variety of features and capacities to suit different energy needs. Consulting with a professional installer can help you determine which option is the best fit for your specific situation. Chat with our battery backup experts today to see your battery options and find out which works best for you.
Questions to Ask a Solar or Energy Provider
When investing in a battery backup system, asking the right questions is critical to ensure you get the best solution for your needs. This section provides a list of essential questions to help you navigate discussions with energy providers.
- What size battery suits my energy needs? Determine the correct capacity based on your consumption and backup requirements. This involves calculating your average daily energy use and identifying critical loads that must remain powered during outages. Energy providers can perform load assessments to help you select the appropriate battery size, ensuring that it meets your short-term needs while leaving room for future growth.
- How long will the battery last during outages? Understand runtime under different scenarios to ensure sufficient backup. The duration depends on the battery’s capacity and the amount of energy your home consumes. Discuss specific use cases with your provider to determine how long the battery can sustain critical systems like lighting, refrigeration, and medical equipment during extended outages.
- Are there local or federal incentives for my system? Confirm available financial incentives to reduce costs. Federal programs like the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and state-level rebates can significantly offset installation expenses. Some utility companies also offer grants or incentives for homeowners who install energy storage solutions, so researching all options can maximize your savings.
- What is the warranty and lifespan of the battery? Ensure the product meets your long-term reliability expectations. Most lithium-ion batteries come with warranties ranging from 10 to 15 years, but it’s essential to understand the terms, including cycle life and performance guarantees. Ask about maintenance requirements and degradation rates to fully evaluate the system’s value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a battery backup last during a power outage?
Battery backup duration depends on the system size and energy usage. On average, a standard system can provide power for 10-12 hours, though larger systems may last longer.
Can I add a battery backup to my existing solar system?
Yes, most battery backup systems can be retrofitted to existing solar panel setups, though compatibility should be confirmed with your installer.
Are battery backup systems noisy?
No, battery backups operate silently, unlike traditional gas-powered generators.
How long do battery backup systems last?
Most systems have a lifespan of 10-15 years, with lithium-ion batteries offering the longest durability and efficiency.
Do battery backup systems require maintenance?
Modern systems require minimal maintenance. Regular system checks and updates from your installer are typically sufficient.
Can battery backup systems be used for commercial properties?
Yes, battery backup systems are scalable and can be customized to meet the energy demands of commercial properties, ensuring uninterrupted power for critical operations.
What happens when the battery is fully charged?
Once the battery is fully charged, energy production from solar panels is either redirected to power your home or sent back to the grid, depending on your setup. Modern systems manage this process automatically.
Are there any safety concerns with battery backup systems?
Battery backup systems are designed with safety features, such as thermal management and automatic shutoff mechanisms, to prevent overheating or overcharging. Proper installation further minimizes risks.
How do battery backup systems perform in extreme weather conditions?
Many battery systems are built to withstand a range of temperatures and are housed in protective enclosures. However, extreme heat or cold may slightly affect efficiency and capacity, so location considerations are important.
Can I monitor my battery backup system remotely?
Yes, most modern systems come with apps or online dashboards that allow you to monitor energy usage, battery status, and performance in real-time from your smartphone or computer.