Solar backup power isn’t a viable solution for every home.—but that doesn’t mean you have to risk blackouts. With the right battery + generator system, you can have energy security 24/7—rain or shine
Why Some Homes Can’t Use Solar for Backup Power
Not every home is suited for solar panel installation to support a battery backup system. For example, many homes in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) are surrounded by towering pine and fir trees, creating shading issues that drastically reduce solar efficiency. Additionally, some homeowners face roof limitations, HOA restrictions, or the high upfront cost of solar panels, making solar an impractical choice for achieving energy security.
The Growing Need for Reliable Backup Power
Frequent high winds, heavy rainfall, and winter storms in places like the Pacific Northwest mean power outages are a concern. Fallen trees and damaged power lines can leave homeowners without electricity for days or even weeks.
The bomb cyclone of November 19, 2024, demonstrated just how vulnerable the region is to extended blackouts. At the peak of the storm, over 650,000 residents in Western Washington were without power. While some outages were resolved quickly, tens of thousands of homes remained in the dark for multiple days. By November 23—four days later—approximately 66,000 Puget Sound Energy customers were still without electricity. (Source)
The Best Alternative: Battery + Standby Generator Backup
So, what are the options for a homeowner looking for energy security solutions? The best alternative is a battery backup system paired with a generator, providing seamless, long-term power resilience—without the need for solar.
Why a Generator is Essential for Extended Backup Power
A battery-only backup system provides an excellent short-term solution for brief outages, but it has limitations when it comes to multi-day blackouts. A home battery, like the Generac PWRcell, stores a finite amount of energy—typically lasting between 8 to 24 hours, depending on energy consumption. Once depleted, the battery requires recharging to continue supplying power.
This is where a standby generator becomes essential, providing continuous energy security even when grid power is unavailable. The Generac 10kW home standby generator seamlessly integrates with the 18kW PWRcell battery system, automatically starting when battery levels drop to a designated threshold. The generator then works to recharge the battery while also providing direct power to essential appliances.
Feature | Battery-Only Backup | Battery + Generator Backup |
How long it lasts | 8-24 hours max | Unlimited power |
Fuel required? | No | Yes (but highly efficient) |
Cost-effectiveness | Higher upfront cost | Lower long-term costs |
Works in any weather? | No (solar charging required) | Yes (always runs) |
How the Generator + Battery System Works Together
There is immediate backup power from the battery. When the grid goes down, the PWRcell battery instantly takes over and powers essential home loads. This ensures an immediate, silent transition without waiting for the generator to start.
When there is battery energy depletion, depending on the home’s electricity usage, the battery can last between 8 and 24 hours before needing a recharge. Strategic load management (prioritizing critical appliances) extends battery life. When the battery reaches a low charge threshold, the Generac 10kW generator automatically starts. The generator powers the home while recharging the battery at the same time.
Since the generator only needs to recharge the battery, it does not have to run continuously. This significantly reduces fuel consumption and wear on the generator, making the system more cost-effective. Once the battery is fully recharged, the generator shuts off automatically, and the battery resumes powering the home. This cycle repeats as needed throughout the duration of the power outage, ensuring continuous electricity.
Introducing the Generac PWRcell: An Advanced Energy Storage Solution
The Generac PWRcell is a high-performance battery storage system designed for home energy backup. With its modular design, homeowners can scale their energy storage to match their needs.
Key Features of the Generac PWRcell:
- 18 kWh Battery Capacity – The system can store up to 18 kWh of energy in a single cabinet, which is the required size for seamless generator integration.
- Compact Slim Profile – With dimensions of 22” L x 10” W x 68” H, the PWRcell’s sleek design allows for easy installation in most homes.
- Smart Load Management – The battery prioritizes critical appliances to maximize energy efficiency.
A standard 18 kWh PWRcell battery can power essential household devices for 8 to 12 hours without recharging. With strategic load management, this duration can extend up to 24 hours in energy-efficient homes.
How Long Does a 10kW Generator Need to Run Per Day?
A Generac 10kW generator, running at 50% load, typically consumes about 1.2 to 1.5 gallons of propane per hour.
- For 4 hours of charging per day → The generator burns 4.8 to 6 gallons of propane per day.
- For full-day operation → The generator can use 28 to 36 gallons of propane per day.
By integrating a PWRcell battery with a generator, the generator only needs to run for a few hours per day rather than operating continuously. This dramatically reduces fuel costs and extends the lifespan of the generator.
Key Benefits of the Generac PWRcell + Generator System
✔ Weather-Independent – Unlike solar, this system works day or night, rain or shine.
✔ Lower Upfront Cost – Installing a battery + generator is often more cost-effective than a full solar + battery system.
✔ Scalable Design – Homeowners can start with a battery and expand their energy storage later.
✔ Automatic Power Switching – The system seamlessly transitions between battery and generator without interruption.
This hybrid backup system is a practical, affordable, and long-term solution for homeowners who want energy independence without solar.
Customized Energy Solutions from Clean Energy Innovators
At Clean Energy Innovators, we specialize in tailoring energy backup solutions to fit the unique needs of each homeowner. Whether you’re considering a Generac PWRcell battery system, a backup generator, or a fully integrated energy security plan, we take a personalized approach to help you find the best solution for your home.
Our team is dedicated to educating homeowners and providing expert guidance to help you make an informed decision about your energy security.
Want to Learn More?
We’re happy to provide resources and expert insights to help you explore your options:
- Understanding Backup Power and Best Practices
- A PNW Guide to Understanding Loads in Batteries and Best Practices in Selecting a Battery SizeUnderstanding Loads in Batteries: A Comprehensive Guide
At Clean Energy Innovators, our goal is to empower homeowners with knowledge and customized solutions that ensure long-term energy independence. Get Your Custom Backup Power Plan
