Severe weather, global warming and deteriorated infrastructure are causing more frequent power outages, making home backup power an attractive option. Backup plans can be powered by fossil fuels such as diesel, propane and natural gas, or battery-powered, and often matched with residence solar power panels. Although expenses can be high, the Inflation Reduction Act provides incentives to help homeowners reduce their financial expenditure while building up savings over time.
Extreme weather and climate change have resulted in an increased frequency of power outages in the US. This, alongside local utility reliability and cost, can lead to the decision to invest in a home backup system. Benjamin R. Dierker, executive director of the Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure explained that factors such as coastal resilience, drainage quality, electrical grid hardiness and the use of overhead versus buried utility lines should be taken into account when weighing in the costs and benefits of backup power. As of September 11th, there have been 23 weather-related disasters resulting in losses of over $1 billion throughout the country. Consumers should consider their appliance needs during outages and the level of risk in their area when determining if a backup system is right for their home. Portable generators or batteries may be sufficient for minimal backup needs while a full home system may be required for more extensive needs. Location plays a role in the frequency of outages, with states such as California, Texas, and Louisiana having higher risks.
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I am going to stop by the store on my way home.
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On my route home, I am going to make a stop at the store.
When weighing the costs of different backup sources, those who are open to fossil fuel-powered options may want to consider a portable generator, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. There are also more expensive, quieter, and more fuel-efficient portable generators that can provide long-term power to multiple appliances. Home standby generators, fueled by propane or natural gas, cost between $3,000 - $5,000 and provide a longer-term power solution. For those who prefer a greener option, battery-powered backups offer a quiet, environmentally conscious solution for a few hundred dollars, with longer-term options available for around $10,000 - $20,000. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act provides a 30% tax credit on battery storage installation, often with other state and utility incentives also available.
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I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.
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I anticipate spending time with you in the near future.
Electrical vehicles (EVs) may offer an alternative to a traditional backup power system for the home. Ford's F-150 Lightning has the ability to provide power to a home for up to three days, and GM plans to make their Ultium-based electric vehicles bidirectional charging enabled by 2026. Stephen Pantano from Rewiring America suggested that instead of spending $10,000 on a gas-powered generator, an EV with the capabilities could be considered. Another power backup option is an induction stove with a built-in battery to provide electricity to your fridge or other devices. Solar-plus-storage systems can be implemented for a long-term savings. It is estimated that it would cost between $25,000 and $35,000 for a solar-plus-storage system, depending on the size of the battery and other factors. For those who already have solar installed and would like to add storage, the cost is estimated to be between $12,000 and $22,000. Homeowners can also take part in federal tax credits and state incentives. Finally, EnergySage and Switch Is On provide information on solar, incentives, electrification, and more.
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