Yes, it’s better if you install your energy storage system at the same time as your solar panels. Here’s why:

• You can save money on labor and installation costs by doing both projects at once, rather than in separate stages.

• You can avoid compatibility issues and efficiency losses by choosing a solar-plus-storage system that is designed and integrated by one company, such as SunPower SunVault.

• You can take advantage of the incentives and tax credits for installing both solar and storage in Oregon, such as the Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives and the federal investment tax credit.

• You can start enjoying the benefits of a solar-plus-storage system sooner, such as around-the-clock power, pocketbook protection, better monitoring, and more energy self-sufficiency.

If you’re interested in installing a solar-plus-storage system for your home, contact us today for a free consultation: (541) 248-5373.

An energy storage system works with your solar panels by storing the excess electricity they produce during the day and using it when you need it, such as at night or during power outages.

That’s how you reduce your reliance on the grid, lower your electricity bills, and increase your energy independence.

The most common type or energy storage system for residential use is a battery system, which can be either co-located with your solar panels or stand alone.

A battery system consists of a charge controller, an inverter, and one or more batteries.

• Charge Controller: The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries.

• Inverter: The inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity from the batteries to alternating current (AC) electricity for your home appliances,

• Batteries: The batteries store the electricity for later use.

The size and capacity of your battery system depend on your energy needs, your solar system size, and your budget.

The battery systems that we install come with smart features that allow you to monitor and control them remotely using an app.

If you’re interested in installing an energy storage system with your solar panels, please contact us today for a free consultation.

Choosing the right size and capacity of an energy storage system for your home depends on a few factors, such as your energy consumption, your solar panel system, your budget, and your goals.

The bottom line - If you partner with Earthlight Technologies, we will help you choose the right size and capacity for your system.

The following steps will give you a sense for how we make recommendations:

• Step 1: Determine your daily and monthly energy consumption by looking at your electric bill or online dashboard.

• Step 2: Decide what you want to power with your energy storage system. Do you want to back up your entire home or just the essential loads, such as lights, refrigerator, internet, etc.?

• Step 3: Check the capacity of your solar panel system, if you have one or plan to install one. The capacity is measured in kilowatts (kW) and indicates how much power your system can produce at any given time. The more solar panels you have, the more energy you can generate and store.

• Step 4: Consider your budget. The larger the size and capacity, the more energy you can store and use, but also the more expensive the system will be.

• Step 5: Factor in the incentives and tax credits for installing an energy storage system in Oregon, such as the Energy Trust of Oregon cash incentives and the federal tax credit. These can help you reduce the upfront cost and payback period of your system.

If you’re interested in installing an energy storage system for your home, please give us a call or send us a message to schedule your free consultation.

There are several incentives and tax credits available for homeowners who install an energy storage system, such as:

• The Oregon Solar + Storage Rebate Program: This program offers rebates for solar and solar with paired storage projects. For residential projects, the maximum rebate is $5,000 for a solar electric system and $2,500 for an energy storage system. Low- or moderate-income households can receive higher rebates based on their eligibility.

• Federal Tax Credit: There is currently a 30% tax credit for solar and storage systems.

• Energy Trust of Oregon Incentives: This is a nonprofit organization that offers cash incentives for solar and storage systems to customers of Portland General Electric and Pacific Power. The incentives vary depending on the system size, type, and location.

If you are interested in installing an energy storage system for your home, contact Earthlight Technologies today for a free consultation.