Energy Storage & Battery Systems
Store solar energy and gain energy independence with home battery backup
Why Add Battery Storage?
Battery storage systems transform your solar installation into a complete energy solution. Store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it at night, during peak-rate hours, or when the grid goes down. With California's frequent power outages and high time-of-use electricity rates, battery storage makes more sense than ever.
Pacific Edge Electric and Solar specializes in integrating advanced battery systems with solar installations. Whether you're adding storage to an existing solar system or designing a new solar + storage installation from scratch, we provide expert guidance and professional installation.
Benefits of Energy Storage
- Backup Power During Outages - Keep essential appliances running when the grid fails
- Maximize Solar Self-Consumption - Use your solar power 24/7, not just during sunny hours
- Time-of-Use Optimization - Avoid expensive peak-rate electricity charges
- Energy Independence - Reduce reliance on the utility grid
- Grid Support - Earn incentives through demand response programs
- Future-Ready - Prepare for electric vehicles and all-electric homes
- Increase Home Value - Battery backup is a premium feature buyers seek
Battery Systems We Install
Tesla Powerwall
Capacity: 13.5 kWh usable
Power Output: 5 kW continuous / 7 kW peak
Best For: Most homes, seamless integration with Tesla solar
Features: Sleek design, app control, automatic backup, scalable
The Tesla Powerwall is the most popular home battery system. Its compact, wall-mounted design and proven reliability make it an excellent choice for most homes. Stack multiple Powerwalls for larger homes or extended backup needs.
FranklinWH aPower
Capacity: 13.6 kWh per battery (expandable to 15+ units)
Power Output: 10 kW / 12 kW continuous options
Best For: Whole-home backup, high energy users, multi-EV households
Features: Modular expansion, AI energy management, aGate load router
FranklinWH's revolutionary all-in-one system combines battery storage, hybrid inverter, and intelligent energy management. Perfect for homeowners who want maximum flexibility and the most advanced energy management available.
Enphase IQ Battery
Capacity: 5.0 kWh per unit (stackable to 80 kWh)
Power Output: 3.84 kW continuous / 7.68 kW peak per unit
Best For: Enphase microinverter systems, easy retrofits
Features: AC-coupled, modular design, integrated inverter, 15-year warranty
Perfect companion for Enphase solar systems. The IQ Battery 5P features modular design for easy customization and works with any solar system, not just Enphase. Simple AC-coupled installation makes it ideal for retrofitting existing solar systems.
How Battery Storage Works
During the Day (Sun Shining):
- Solar panels generate electricity
- Power your home first
- Excess energy charges the battery
- Additional excess sent to grid (net metering)
At Night or During Outages:
- Battery discharges to power your home
- Essential circuits stay energized
- Grid import only when battery depleted
- Automatic switch during power outages
What Can a Battery Power?
Battery capacity determines what you can power and for how long. Here's what typical systems can support:
Essential Loads (8-12 hours backup):
- Refrigerator
- Lights
- WiFi router & modem
- Phone charging
- Medical equipment
- Garage door opener
Whole Home Backup (4-6 hours typical):
- All essential loads above
- HVAC system
- Well pump
- Electric stove/oven
- Multiple rooms of lighting
- TV and entertainment
Runtime varies based on usage. Multiple batteries extend backup duration.
Installation Process
1. Energy Assessment
Analyze your energy usage patterns, critical loads, and backup needs to size the system properly.
2. System Design
Design battery configuration, determine installation location, and plan backup circuit panel.
3. Permitting
Obtain electrical permits and utility approval for battery installation.
4. Installation
Install battery, backup panel, and integration with existing solar system (if applicable).
5. Testing & Commissioning
Configure battery settings, test backup functionality, and verify proper operation.
6. Utility Approval
Final inspection and permission to operate from utility company.
7. Monitoring Setup
Configure app for remote monitoring of battery charge, usage, and solar production.
8. Homeowner Training
Show you how to use your system, understand monitoring, and maximize benefits.
Battery + Solar: The Perfect Combination
While batteries can work with grid power alone, pairing them with solar provides maximum value. Solar generates free electricity to charge your battery daily, providing energy independence and eliminating reliance on utility power.
💰 Save with Solar + Storage Bundle
Installing solar and battery together maximizes efficiency and savings. You'll benefit from:
- Single installation process
- Optimized system design
- Lower combined installation cost
Retrofitting Existing Solar Systems
Already have solar panels? We can add battery storage to most existing solar systems. AC-coupled batteries like Tesla Powerwall work with any solar system, regardless of age or inverter type. We'll assess your current system and design the optimal battery integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do batteries last?
Most batteries are warranted for 10 years and designed to last 15-20 years with minimal degradation.
Can I go completely off-grid?
Technically yes, but it requires a very large battery bank and solar array. Most homeowners choose grid-tied with battery backup for reliability and lower cost.
Do batteries work in a power outage?
Yes! That's a primary benefit. Battery systems automatically detect outages and switch to backup mode within milliseconds.
How much does battery storage cost?
Complete installations range from $12,000-$20,000 including equipment and installation.
Is battery storage worth it?
For Bay Area homeowners facing frequent outages, high electricity rates, and time-of-use billing, battery storage provides substantial value and peace of mind.
Can I charge my EV from the battery?
Yes, but battery capacity is typically prioritized for home backup. Solar + large battery systems can support some EV charging.
Ready to Add Energy Storage?
Get a custom battery storage quote designed for your energy needs and budget.
Request Battery Storage Quote