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A backup power source is not only essential when the power goes out, it can also help reduce your bills by providing you with energy during times of the day when electricity is most expensive. For customers who are considering investing in backup power, MCE recommends solar energy storage, a reliable, safe, and pollution-free alternative to gas generators. Here are the top 4 reasons you should consider investing in solar energy storage.
1. Reliability
Solar energy is more reliable than gas generators, which require access to gasoline or diesel fuel that can be hard to find during outages, fires, or earthquakes. A battery storage system that’s powered by solar is a clean, self-sustaining power source that doesn’t require you to store or buy gasoline.
2. Financial Incentives
When you install solar energy storage, you pay the cost of the project up front and you can earn your money back by generating your own source of power. You may also receive a federal tax credit, and you can apply for the California Self-Generation Incentive Program, which can help cover 50% to 100% of the cost, depending on your eligibility. A number of local grants and subsidies, including those offered by MCE, may be available if you live in a high-fire threat area or if you’re a Medical Baseline customer.
3. Safety
Solar storage systems are safer than traditional gas generators because you don’t have to store flammable fuels. Moreover, the risk of respiratory illness is lessened because solar and battery storage systems don’t release particulate matter into the air.
4. Environmental Benefits
Gas generators produce pollution, which contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. With solar energy storage, you can rest easy knowing that you have access to clean, fossil-free backup power during power outages.
MCE is working hard to make clean backup options more accessible to our customers. Our Energy Storage Program helps qualified participants apply for financial assistance through the state’s Self-Generation Incentive Program while supporting customers through the installation process. MCE also recently invested in portable off-grid battery storage to provide energy independence to 100 of our most vulnerable customers at no cost.
