Battery Storage Solutions in Chicago, IL
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At Kapital Electric, we are committed to providing professional and reliable renewable energy solutions to our customers in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. As experts in the field, we understand the benefits of battery storage and are here to help you make informed decisions about incorporating this technology into your home or business.
Learn about the various advantages of battery storage, including the potential for cost savings, increased self-sufficiency, and backup power during outages. Our goal is to provide honest and credible information to help you evaluate whether battery storage is a good fit for your needs.
What Is Battery Storage?
Battery storage refers to the use of batteries to store electricity generated from renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. The stored electricity can then be released and used when needed, allowing homes and businesses to use clean energy even when the sun is not shining, or the wind is not blowing. Battery storage technologies, also known as battery energy storage systems (BESS), are an important part of the transition to renewable energy, as they enable the integration of low-carbon power, heat, and transport technologies.
How Does Solar Battery Storage Work?
Solar battery storage systems work by storing excess energy from solar panels in a battery for use during times when solar energy production is low. In the morning, when the sun starts to shine, the solar system powers the home’s electrical devices first. As the sun rises in the afternoon, the home consumes less energy than the solar PV system produces, and the excess energy is stored in the solar battery for later use. Solar battery storage for home systems offers numerous benefits, including the potential to save money, provide backup power during outages, and increase self-sufficiency. They are also eligible for tax credits and incentives in some locations.
The Benefits of Battery Storage
Battery storage systems offer a range of benefits that can make them an attractive option for homeowners and businesses. Here are five key advantages of battery storage:
- Financial — Saves money by self-consuming more of the energy generated by renewable sources like solar panels.
- Reliability — Provides backup power during outages, keeping homes and businesses running even when the grid is down.
- Independence — Increases self-sufficiency by relying less on the grid for energy needs.
- Stability — Smooths out fluctuations in supply and demand, making the grid more stable and reliable.
- Sustainability — Contributes to the transition to renewable energy, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.
Solar Battery Products
Kapital Electric offers a range of solar energy battery products, including solar panels, home EV charging stations, whole-house generators, Tesla Powerwall’s, ice-melting equipment, and solar shingles.
If you’re a homeowner and want to view our full selection of residential renewable energy solutions. If you’re a business owner and want to view our full section of commercial renewable energy solutions.
Three Main Types of Batteries
When it comes to energy storage, there are three main types of batteries that are commonly used: lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and flow batteries. Each type of battery has its own unique characteristics and is best suited for different applications.
When choosing a battery for your energy storage needs, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your system and the characteristics of each type of battery. It is also a good idea to seek advice from a solar company or professional to determine the best option for your needs.
- Lead-acid batteries — Traditionally used in off-grid power systems, but they are not as widely used today due to the availability of other battery options. They are known for their low cost and durability, but they are also heavy and require regular maintenance.
- Lithium-ion batteries — The most common type of battery used in energy storage systems. They are known for being lightweight, scalable, high efficiency, and long-lasting. Companies like LG and Samsung began releasing lithium-ion battery systems in 2015, and the popularity of these batteries increased with the release of the Tesla Powerwall.
- Flow batteries — A newer technology that is generally used for larger energy storage applications. They are known for their ability to store large amounts of energy and their ability to be quickly charged and discharged. However, they are also more expensive than other types of batteries and require more maintenance. When choosing a battery for your energy storage needs, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your system and the characteristics of each type of battery. It is also a good idea to seek advice from a solar company or professional to determine the best option for your needs.
How Much Does a Home Battery Storage System Cost?
The cost of a home battery system depends on the size and type of the battery, and the capacity of the battery is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). On average, an energy storage battery system can cost around $1000 per kWh installed. Prices for a home battery system range from $3000 for a smaller 3 to 4kWh battery to $15,000 for a larger 12 to 15kWh battery, depending on the type of battery, installation location, backup power requirements, and type of hybrid inverter used.
The size of the battery you get for your home will depend on a few factors, including your energy needs, budget, and space constraints. It’s important to consider the amount of electricity you use on a daily basis and how much of that you would like to be able to store in the battery.
Incentives for Solar-Powered Batteries
Battery storage systems for solar energy are eligible for tax credits, including the federal Investment Tax Credit which currently stands at 30% for both battery storage and solar PV systems. In Illinois, homeowners with Ameren Illinois or Com-Ed utility bills may also be eligible for a new battery incentive of $300 per kWh of storage through the Illinois Clean Energy Jobs Act. These incentives can significantly reduce the overall cost of installation and make the transition to renewable energy more financially viable.
Solar-Powered Battery FAQ
Yes, a solar home battery storage system will still work on cloudy days or at night, as it stores excess energy from the sun during the day to use when solar energy production decreases.
It depends on the size of your solar home battery storage system and the amount of energy you use. A larger system with a higher capacity will be able to power more of your home’s electrical devices during an outage.
Installing a solar home battery storage system typically requires the assistance of a professional installation team. However, the process is usually straightforward and can be completed in a few days.
A solar home battery storage system can provide numerous benefits, including saving money on energy costs and increasing self-sufficiency by relying less on the utility grid. It can also offer peace of mind during extended outages and the growing trend of climate disasters. Overall, it can be a worthwhile investment for home and business owners looking to increase their use of renewable energy.
Yes, an inverter is necessary because most homes and businesses rely on AC power instead of DC power.
Solar inverters use minimal electricity, but their primary function is to convert and transport energy from the solar panels. The energy that travels through electrical wires consumes more electricity than the inverter itself, making the inverter’s power consumption negligible.
Solar inverters are specifically designed for solar panel systems and the DC power generated by solar energy.
The amount of savings depends on various factors, such as electricity usage, location, and utility rates. Solar providers typically aim to offset 70-90% of monthly electricity bills, making it a good starting point for cost calculations.
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Expert Assistance From Kapital Electric Inc.
Looking for more information about solar home battery storage in the Chicago, IL area? Kapital Electric Inc. is here to help! Not only do we offer top-quality solar battery storage solutions, but we also provide a range of other solar services to meet all your renewable energy needs. With decades of experience in the industry, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the best solution for your home or business. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your solar journey!
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