A rural homeowner has shared how they survived a 36-hour blackout without a gas generator thanks to their solar panels. 

The scoop

Silver Cymbal (@SilverCymbal) described how they got through without grid-provided power for two days by using a solar panel and battery system. The power outage occurred after a 2024 storm in New Hampshire that saw nearly 20% of the entire state without grid access.

The rural homeowner went on to explain that it was the perfect situation for testing their EcoFlow Delta Pro Ultra, along with five expansion batteries, which provided 120V and 240V, as well as 30,000 kilowatt-hours of battery runtime.

While they couldn't run all of their appliances at the same time, the homeowner described how they were able to power lights, fridges, and their induction cooktop, along with other appliances, during the storm. They did it all through a switch system like a gas generator would use, too, powering the entire home while being switched off from the grid, instead of having to plug in various devices to individual batteries.

They also noted it seems to be the only system on the market that allows you to run it while it's charging.

"Pretty much no one else can do this," the homeowner said.

How it's helping

Switching to solar panels can help people avoid long power blackouts while also reducing monthly utility bills. Making the switch can seem overwhelming, as there is a lot of information to sift through.

That is where EnergySage comes in. The company provides a free service that allows you to compare quotes across providers and get the best deal in your area.

Lots of people have shared the benefits associated with going solar, from cheaper energy bills to reducing the harmful pollution produced by their homes.

Pairing solar panels with batteries can help you store energy for later, which helps ensure you can still run your home during outages.

What would it take for you to get rid of your gas stove? I'd pay for it myself 💪 Give me the new stove for free 💸 I'd need at least $2K 💰 I already have an electric stove 😎 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Solar panels have also never been more affordable. As the technology improves and manufacturing gets more efficient, the cost of panels decreases.

With EnergySage's help, the average person can get nearly $10,000 in incentives for solar purchases and installations. Additionally, EnergySage has a useful mapping tool that shows people the average cost of a home solar panel system in their state. 

What everyone's saying

One commenter pointed out another great fact about the system, writing, "Really like that you can charge the system while using it. So many battery makers seem so afraid of that."

Another said, "I have the same setup. It is pricey, but with the 30% tax credit and using it every day, it will pay itself off in just a few years."

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