Software engineer in Houston, Texas, faces challenges with power outages affecting his family's comfort and work. With three outages in two and a half months, including a three-day blackout, the family resorted to a hotel for air conditioning and internet access crucial for work.
To address the issue, they invested in a generator, costing $1,500 plus installation fees. However, concerns over air quality and climate change prompted them to seek cleaner alternatives for emergency power.
One emerging solution is the installation of battery arrays in homes. In California, over half of rooftop solar buyers opt for batteries to ensure uninterrupted power during outages. Nationally, the sales of solar-plus-battery systems have surged, with an expected 27% of new home solar systems to include storage this year.
Portable options like 'solar generators' and power stations are gaining popularity. These devices store energy for later use and can power essential appliances during outages. While they come at a cost, falling prices and government incentives are making them more accessible.
The rise in demand for backup power solutions is attributed to the increasing frequency of power disruptions due to climate change-induced extreme weather events. The average person in the U.S. experienced 16% more outages in 2022 compared to 2013, with longer restoration times.
Concerns over the environmental impact of traditional generators have led individuals like Jason Benedict to invest in cleaner energy solutions such as solar panels and batteries. Despite the cost, many find the reliability and sustainability of these alternatives worth the investment.
While diesel, propane, and gasoline generators remain prevalent due to their affordability and reliability, experts emphasize the need for cleaner and more sustainable energy sources in light of the challenges posed by climate change.
