A recent poll released by BusinessWire revealed that more than half of Americans faced unexpected power failures in 2023. Due to this startling uptick, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for homeowners to equip themselves ahead of blackouts. 

Fortunately for homeowners looking to go green and stay powered when the grid goes down, solar panels are a pivotal solution, offering protection and resilience during outages.

Secure uninterrupted power for your home during outages. Click “FREE QUOTE” at the top for details!

The Effect of Storms on Electric Grids 

Strong winds, heavy snow or ice can all cause downed power lines, while extreme cold can strain aging electrical infrastructure even further. To make matters worse, ice can form along tree roots and underground power lines, stiffening them and potentially causing damage due to the increased weight.

In addition to the strain natural weather conditions cause, homes all pulling power at the same time puts immense pressure on grids. Sometimes temperature extremes are worse than predicted and utility companies may not have the time or resources to keep up with demand. This can cause widespread power outages or blackouts [2]. 

Say goodbye to worrying about power grid failures causing outages! Obtain worry-free energy with Momentum Solar. Call 1-888-MOMENTUM to talk to a local representative and go solar today!

Beat Your Next Outage

When it comes to fortifying your home against unforeseen power interruptions, solar panels stand out as a dependable solution. Solar energy systems not only generate clean and sustainable energy, but also serve as a reliable power source during outages [3] when paired with a battery storage solution. Understanding the intricacies of solar energy storage is key to staying powered in an outage! 

Solar batteries play a crucial role in maintaining uninterrupted power during grid failures.

The duration for which solar batteries can supply power during an outage varies based on factors like battery capacity and energy consumption. The capacity of solar batteries and energy usage patterns determine their ability to sustain power [4]. Momentum is proud to partner with Enphase to provide solar energy solutions tailored to every homeowner’s needs! 

Enphase batteries are renowned for their exceptional quality and reliability in storing solar energy for homes. These batteries offer numerous advantages, including their weather-resistant design, ability to power essential appliances during outages and advanced safety features due to their low-voltage DC operation. Customers can expect robust performance, enhanced safety and the ability to monitor and manage their energy usage efficiently through Enphase’s user-friendly mobile app. By choosing Momentum Solar, customers gain access to these premium Enphase batteries, ensuring a dependable and sustainable energy solution for their homes.

Preparing Your Solar System for Winter Storms

To prepare your solar-powered home for potential outages, homeowners just like you should consider taking several necessary steps. Understanding how your solar energy system functions during an outage, investing in battery backup, and creating a comprehensive power outage emergency plan are all essential elements to a fail-safe blackout solution.

To help bolster your emergency plan, Enphase boasts an innovative feature called StormGuard. The company’s batteries typically operate in a “savings” mode, enabling homeowners to keep their battery systems poised to pull from the stored energy when utilities charge their peak fees in the  evening hours. Enphase monitors alerts from the National Weather Service and, if there’s an impending storm or disruptive weather pattern, seamlessly shifts to full backup. This ensures your batteries charge up from the grid, preparing you for the storm and preventing a blackout. Once the storm subsides, it automatically reverts to the savings mode, allowing continued savings during peak energy consumption hours.

Unlock savings with Momentum Solar, your trusted solar installer! Click ‘Request Appointment’ below to learn more and start saving. 

Equip Your Home for Power Outages: Essential Steps for Emergency Planning

Before power outages:

1. Inventory electricity-dependent items: Identify items reliant on electricity and prepare alternatives for use during power outages.
2. Medical device plan: Consult your healthcare provider for a power outage strategy concerning medical devices and refrigerated medications. During a workshop hosted by IML, experts emphasized the importance of understanding temperature storage guidelines for critical medications.
3. Backup power sources: Prepare batteries and alternatives to meet essential needs during power disruptions.
4. Stay informed: Sign up for local alerts, monitor weather forecasts, and install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
5. Assess communication: Determine the functionality of your home phone during power outages and review battery backup duration.
6. Emergency supplies: Stock up on flashlights, first aid supplies, nonperishable food, water and maintain charged mobile phones and equipment.

During power outages:

1. Preserve food: Keep freezers and refrigerators closed; they can maintain cold temperatures for a limited duration.
2. Use non-refrigerated food: Rely on non-refrigerated food items during outages.
3. Prevent carbon monoxide exposure: Safely use generators or cooking equipment outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
4. Check on vulnerable groups: Ensure the safety of older adults and children in extreme temperatures.

After power restoration:

1. Check food: Discard food exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees for two hours or more.
2. Manage medications: Discard refrigerated medications if the outage exceeds a day, seeking guidance for critical medications.

Remember, safety is paramount during power outages. Take precautions, follow guidelines, and prioritize your well-being [6].

Debunk Winter Solar Myths

Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can generate energy throughout all four seasons. At Momentum Solar, we use solar panels that are hermetically sealed and housed in non-reflective glass to shield against environmental damage. These panels are securely placed in frames to prevent deformation in freezing weather or strong winds.

The racking systems we use upon installation allow snow to slide off panels, which can actually benefit future solar power production. Dirt on panels can melt away with the snow, ensuring higher efficiency in future energy production [5].

Avoid the Unexpected with Solar

By embracing solar power and battery storage, homeowners not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also secure a dependable power source during unexpected outages. Understanding the role of solar panels, maximizing the benefits of solar batteries, and preparing for outages are vital steps to ensure readiness for any situation. 

Begin your energy independence journey! Contact us for a complimentary consultation and learn how you can unlock dependable, sustainable energy solutions. Click the “Free Quote” button above or reach out to 1-888-MOMENTUM now!

Sources:

[1]https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230928675141/en/New-Poll-Reveals-Majority-of-Americans-Are-Unprepared-for-Power-Outages-Interested-in-More-Affordable-Solar-Power-Solutions

[2]https://interestingengineering.com/science/why-does-the-power-go-out-during-extremely-cold-weather

[3] https://settingmind.com/how-to-prepare-your-solar-powered-home-for-an-outage/

[4] https://www.solar.com/learn/how-long-can-a-battery-provide-power-during-an-outage/

[5] https://www.energy.gov/eere/articles/let-it-snow-how-solar-panels-can-thrive-winter-weather

[6]https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

Texas, long known as an oil-rich state, has recently become a beacon of solar energy expansion. With residents’ widespread adoption of clean energy, Texas is solidifying its position as a leader in renewables in the United States. In 2023, Texas witnessed a remarkable surge in solar energy production, driven by state policies, market dynamics and the ever-increasing demand for cleaner energy sources.

Texas homeowners, elevate your energy game and see how much you can save! Call us now at 1-888-MOMENTUM for quality solar panel installations with stellar service. Let’s power your home the Texan way!

Booming in a Heat Wave

During an intense June heat wave, Texas’ solar power significantly contributed to the state’s energy grid, demonstrating solar energy’s vital role in ensuring grid reliability and resilience. This boom in solar energy can be attributed to the state’s abundant sunshine and open land, which are ideal for large-scale solar farms. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has seen a dramatic increase in solar energy contributions, with the solar share of total energy production growing rapidly [1].

This growth is backed by economic factors as well. High fuel prices have made renewable energy sources like solar more competitive. This economic shift encourages investment in solar technology, resulting in a surge in renewable energy projects across the state [2].

The solar panel boom in Texas is not merely a temporary spike in interest, but a part of a larger, sustainable trend toward diversification of the state’s energy portfolio [3]. This trend is particularly noteworthy given Texas’s history as a fossil fuel giant.

Solar Incentives in Texas

Texas, a state renowned for its sunshine and blue skies, presents a golden opportunity for homeowners to tap into solar energy. If you’re contemplating going solar in Texas, there are several incentives that can help make the transition more affordable and beneficial [4].

Here’s a summary of some key incentives:

1. Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC):

Across the United States, the Federal ITC remains the most lucrative incentive for solar panel installation. This tax credit allows you to deduct up to 30% of the cost of installing solar panels from your federal taxes [4]. Always check the most current rates since these incentives can change.

2. Texas Net Metering and Buyback Programs:

While Texas does not have a statewide net metering policy, many utility companies offer net metering or buyback programs. These programs allow homeowners to sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid. The details of these programs can vary significantly by provider, so it’s essential to check with your local utility company for specifics [4].

3. Property Tax Exemption:

In Texas, homeowners who install solar panels don’t have to worry about increasing property taxes due to their investment. The state exempts the added value of a solar system from your property tax assessment [4]. This means you can improve your home’s value without paying more in property taxes.

4. Local Rebates and Incentives:

Several municipalities and utility providers in Texas offer local rebates and incentives to homeowners who install solar panels. These can include upfront rebates on the cost of your system, performance-based incentives that pay over time, or both. Availability and amounts can vary widely, so it’s worth researching what’s offered in your specific location [4].

5. Solar Rights Law:

Texas law ensures that homeowners’ associations (HOAs) cannot prohibit the installation of solar energy devices, with a few exceptions. This Solar Rights Law means that you have the right to invest in solar energy on your property [4].

Don’t miss out on Texas sunshine! Click the “FREE QUOTE” button at the top of this page and harness solar power with Momentum.

Momentum for Texan Homeowners

As Texas strides boldly into a sustainable future with its solar boom, it’s a prime time for homeowners to harness this renewable energy revolution. In this climate of change, choosing Momentum Solar is not just about going solar; it’s about joining a movement towards a cleaner, greener and more resilient energy landscape. 

With Momentum’s commitment to quality, customer service and tailored solar solutions, Texas homeowners can transition to solar with confidence. Not from Texas? Momentum proudly serves 11 states and counting! Our expert consultants are ready to navigate you through the myriad of incentives available, ensuring that your switch to solar is as beneficial to your finances as it is to the environment.

Be a part of Texas’s energy revolution and let Momentum Solar empower your home with the energy of tomorrow, today. Call now at 1-888-MOMENTUM to get started.

Sources:

[1] https://www.texastribune.org/2023/06/28/texas-solar-power-grid-heat-wave/#:~:text=Texas%20has%20seen%20a%20boom,an%20intense%20June%20heat%20wave. 

[2] https://beatricedailysun.com/news/report-renewable-energy-surges-driven-by-solar-boom-and-high-fuel-prices/article_5d39a9f1-3c03-5b7d-8d46-9921dd0b397b.html 

[3] https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/texas-most-utility-scale-solar-power-18447562.php 

[4] https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/texas-solar-panel-incentives-tax-credits-rebates-and-buyback-programs/ 

Harnessing the sun’s energy through solar panels has become a pivotal stride in our shift towards a sustainable future. However, an often-asked question by homeowners is, “How long will my solar batteries last?” With the evolution of solar technology, understanding the longevity and efficiency of solar batteries is essential for anyone looking to invest in solar power.

Thinking about a shift to solar with storage solutions? Click the “FREE QUOTE” button at the top of this page now to begin your clean energy transition with Momentum!

Contributing Factors

The actual lifespan of batteries hinge on several factors, including the battery type, usage patterns and maintenance [1]. The type of solar battery is paramount in dictating its durability. For instance, lead-acid batteries typically offer a shorter lifespan due to their deeper discharge cycles. In contrast, lithium-ion batteries, known for their lighter weight and compact size, boast a longer lifespan because of their higher tolerance to frequent charging and discharging cycles [2]. For customers, the number of discharge cycles a solar battery can endure directly impacts its overall cost-effectiveness. Batteries with higher cycle life tend to offer more extended warranties and a longer duration of efficient use, making them a more economical investment over time. 

Moreover, usage patterns profoundly impact battery life. A battery cyclically charged and discharged to its full capacity will endure wear more rapidly than one operating under partial cycles. Therefore, understanding and managing your energy consumption can extend your solar battery’s operational life [1,2].

Maintenance is of the paramount importance when discussing the longevity of solar batteries. Regular checks and keeping the batteries at recommended temperatures can prevent premature degradation. Some solar batteries come with sophisticated management systems that ensure optimal functioning, which can be a boon for those less inclined toward hands-on maintenance [1].

While solar batteries can be an investment, their durability and performance can be maximized through careful selection, prudent usage and consistent upkeep. As we continue to embrace renewable energy, understanding these nuances becomes not just a personal benefit but a collective step towards a resilient and green energy grid.

Enphase batteries are renowned for their exceptional quality and reliability in storing solar energy for homes. These batteries offer numerous advantages, including their weather-resistant design, ability to power essential appliances during outages and advanced safety features due to their low-voltage DC operation. Customers can expect robust performance, enhanced safety and the ability to monitor and manage their energy usage efficiently through Enphase’s user-friendly mobile app. By choosing Momentum Solar, customers gain access to these premium Enphase batteries, ensuring a dependable and sustainable energy solution for their homes.

Considering a move to solar plus storage? Let’s get your green energy plan in motion—call us today at 1-888-MOMENTUM and see the savings for yourself!

Why Batteries are Important

For homeowners considering the leap into solar energy storage, this thorough understanding of solar battery storage  is power — quite literally. As we better understand and care for our solar batteries, we prolong the equipment’s lifespan , enhance our energy independence and solidify our commitment to a healthier planet. With solar technology constantly improving, the future might even shine brighter on solar battery longevity, reinforcing solar power’s position in our energy landscape.

When it comes to residential solar solutions, one of the critical components beyond the panels themselves is the battery system that stores energy for later use. Momentum Solar understands this and takes pride in offering top-tier energy storage solutions through the installation of Enphase batteries. Momentum is proud to provide a seamless integration of solar energy generation and storage, ensuring that homeowners can maximize their use of clean energy around the clock.

The Enphase batteries are renowned for their quality and reliability. The Enphase Encharge 10, for instance, is a modular energy storage system that brings forth the efficiency and intelligence that modern homes require. These batteries feature state-of-the-art battery chemistry — lithium iron phosphate (LFP), which offers a longer cycle life and safer operation than traditional lithium-ion counterparts [3].

The sophistication of Enphase batteries is not just in their durability but also in their smart technology. Each battery is equipped with Enphase’s proprietary microinverters, ensuring that the storage and conversion of solar energy are optimized for efficiency and reliability. This integration means that the energy is not only stored safely but is also ready to be used as seamless AC power, which is compatible with household appliances without the need for additional inversion [3].

Choosing an Expert Installer

Momentum Solar’s expertise  is to provide a white-glove, truly bespoke installation experience. Recognizing that every home has unique energy needs, we work closely with homeowners to design a system that fits their specific requirements. The installation process is meticulous, ensuring that the batteries are not only positioned for optimal energy storage but also for aesthetics and accessibility.

By choosing Momentum Solar for your solar energy storage needs, you are selecting a provider that values quality and longevity. Our partnership with Enphase reflects a commitment to offering homeowners a sophisticated, high-quality energy solution that promises safety, efficiency and peace of mind. With the ongoing advancements in solar technology, the collaboration between Momentum Solar and Enphase represents a step forward in making sustainable living both accessible and dependable for families across the nation.

Ready to harness the power of the sun and enhance it with storage? Connect with us today by calling 1-888-MOMENTUM to embark on your solar journey!

Sources:

[1] https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2023/09/15/how-long-do-residential-solar-batteries-last/

[2] https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/how-long-do-solar-batteries-last

[3] https://enphase.com/sites/default/files/2021-04/Encharge-10-DS-EN-US.pdf