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Having a backup plan for electricity is a no-brainer in today's world: almost everything we do involves electricity. Plus, with increased extreme weather events, power outages are becoming more and more common.

Integrated solar batteries are one solution to this, and they do a great job, too--especially our top pick, the Enphase IQ 5P. If you've read our other blogs, though, you'll know that we don't always recommend batteries with our systems. There are two main reasons for this:

1. The best bang for your buck: We created Project Solar to offer an affordable home solar option. Home solar batteries come with a pretty high price tag--they're still rather new to residential solar, and the demand is high. Currently, it's often more cost effective in the long run to not purchase a battery, especially if you have a beneficial net-metering program. 
   
   
2. DIY-ers unite: Offering DIY options has always been non-negotiable at Project Solar, and batteries can complicate an otherwise straightforward solar installation. Installing an integrated battery with your system often requires an install certification from the manufacturer, and the batteries weigh in at almost 350lbs. 
   

Off-grid is one area where the Power Bank's solar capabilities truly shine (no pun intended). Adding solar panels to your Power Bank will allow you to generate your own power in areas where grid power isn't available.

In other words, when you use solar to charge your Power Bank it becomes even more portable. The earth's brightest renewable energy source will keep your battery energized on campouts, barbecues, and more. Depending on your expanded capacity and the amount of solar you add, the Power Bank can charge fully in as little as 3 hours. 

Why not take a solar-powered excursion to one of our home state's beautiful national parks? We might be biased, but Arches and Zion's are pretty spectacular. 

It's also a great way for van lifers and other nomads to cut down on fuel costs and other resources--you can bring your Power Bank and solar panels wherever you go and take advantage of free, reliable electricity. 

This battery option can be especially beneficial for those that are prohibited from installing a home solar system--manufactured, mobile, and tiny homes, for instance, are not usually structurally eligible for residential solar. When paired with solar panels, the Power Bank is a perfect portable alternative at a great price. 

Since a solar install is typically only available for those who own a home, there aren't a lot of opportunities for renters who want to decrease their utility bill and produce green energy. One option for home renters can be a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), where you'll purchase the power the system produces each month for lower electricity rates than your utility offers, rather than paying for the system itself. 

These types of agreements require coordinating with your landlord, the solar company, and your power company--not to mention that they typically last 10+ years. They're also generally only available for home rentals, not apartments.

Project Solar's Power Bank cuts out the middlemen, giving you an independent energy option that you can charge for free with the sun. Using your battery to run smaller appliances and to charge your devices will decrease your grid power use and, in turn, help you lower your utility bill. 

Plus, there's no problems if you need to move: just remember to bring your Power Bank with you. 

As much as we like to avoid them, emergencies happen, and it's good to be prepared.

In recent years, wildfires, hurricanes, arctic freezes and more have caused extensive damage throughout the US. Just in 2022, the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) reported $165.1 billion in damages from natural disasters.

These disasters have put historic levels of stress on the power grid, and power outages have increased by 64% in the past 10 years when compared to the previous decade.

There are already a few options to provide you with backup and also relieve stress from the power grid--most of which involve a generator powered by natural gas, diesel, or gasoline. The main issue with gas generators is that their fuel needs to be purchased, and with fuel costs skyrocketing as of late, this is not ideal. Gas generators also need to be run outdoors, as they create toxic carbon monoxide fumes. 

Conversely, the grid-independent Power Bank is able to both charge and perform indoors or outdoors, in -4 to 113 degree conditions (F). It can be charged from your home, car, or from solar panels.

With standard AC outlets, USB-A ports, USB-C ports, and even a wireless phone charger, you can power almost any standard 120V home appliance while also making sure your devices stay topped up.