PacB Group // What is Backup Solar Power, How it Works, and Why You Need It

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What is Backup Solar Power, How it Works, and Why You Need It

Many African countries still struggle to provide stable grid electricity to their citizens, whether in urban or rural settings. Therefore, the need for renewable energy has grown exponentially, particularly solar energy. One of the most significant aspects of solar energy is the ability to store it for later use. This is why backup solar power is becoming an increasingly popular solution.

But what exactly is backup solar power, how does it work, and why do industries, businesses, and even homes need it? Allow the professionals at PacB Group to explain.

 

What Is Backup Solar Power?

Backup solar power is a system designed to ensure access to electricity generated by the sun, even on cloudy days or during power outages. Solar energy is typically harnessed through solar panels. However, because sunlight is not available 24/7, the energy collected during the day is stored for use at night or during inclement weather. This is where solar panels and modern battery technology merge.

Solar panels alone provide a reliable energy source, but they only function when the sun shines. Pairing solar panels with backup storage creates a sustainable, cost-efficient, and reliable energy solution, allowing access to electricity even during overcast days and at night.

 

4 Reasons Why You Need Solar Power Backup Solutions

Backup solar power is essential for various reasons, depending on the type of user. Here’s why it is needed across different sectors:

  1. Energy Independence for Businesses

Businesses are always looking to reduce operating costs, and saving on energy bills can help significantly. By integrating solar power systems, owners can cut expenses and ensure operations continue smoothly without relying on daylight hours or grid power.

  1. Power Reliability for Critical Industries

Industries requiring a constant power supply—such as manufacturing, technology, retail, and healthcare—cannot afford downtime due to power outages. Backup solar solutions can be integrated with generator and UPS systems to maintain seamless operations during power cuts, ensuring uninterrupted activity in critical sectors.

  1. Sustainability for Residential Homes

Solar power provides peace of mind and greater control over energy consumption. It allows families to reduce dependence on grid electricity, which is often unstable in terms of price and availability in many African regions. Additionally, solar power helps reduce carbon footprints, making it a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

  1. Reducing Environmental Impacts

As a renewable energy source, solar power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. Whether for homes or businesses, incorporating solar energy supports the shift to sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources.

 

How Does Backup Solar Power Work?

To understand how this power solution works, we must examine how solar panels, energy storage, and backup systems interact. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

  1. Solar Panels Capture Sunlight

Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electricity. When the sun shines, the panels absorb sunlight and produce direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used for household or business needs.

  1. Energy Storage in Batteries

Once the solar panels generate electricity, the energy can either be used immediately or stored in batteries for later use. Batteries are crucial for backup power, as they store excess energy produced during the day, making it available at night or during cloudy periods.

  1. Powering Your Home or Business

When the grid goes down or the sun isn’t shining, the energy stored in the batteries takes over, powering essential appliances, lights, or equipment. This ensures that your daily activities continue uninterrupted, whether you’re working or relaxing.

  1. Backup Power Systems with Generators

In areas with frequent power outages, backup solar power systems can be combined with diesel generators for uninterrupted energy supply. The generator activates when solar power and battery storage are insufficient to meet energy demands, creating a hybrid solution for maximum energy security. This is especially beneficial in industrial and commercial settings.

 

Popular Types of Batteries for Solar Setups

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries are the two most popular types of batteries used in solar systems. Here’s an overview of each:

  • Lithium-Ion Batteries
    Li-ion batteries are the preferred choice for modern solar systems due to their efficiency, durability, and compact design. They store more energy, discharge power more efficiently, and last longer than other batteries. Additionally, their lightweight construction makes installation easier. However, they are more expensive upfront.
  • Sealed Lead-Acid Batteries
    SLA batteries have been used for backup solar power for decades and remain popular because they are affordable. While they are heavier, larger, and require regular maintenance, their lower cost makes them ideal for startups or budget-conscious users. However, they typically have a shorter lifespan compared to Li-ion batteries.

 

PacB Power: Exploring New Innovations

At the PacB Group, we proudly introduce PacB Energy, a division dedicated to providing advanced backup solar power solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential needs. As a leading manufacturer, supplier, and installer of industrial diesel generators, we have expanded our offerings to include eco-friendly renewable energy solutions.

PacB Energy is committed to delivering high-quality, customisable solar systems designed to meet the unique requirements of every client. Whether you’re seeking grid-tie systems, hybrid setups, or off-grid solutions with generator and UPS backup options, we can provide a solution tailored to your needs. Our key offerings include:

  • Innovative Tier 1 Equipment: At PacB, we use only the highest-quality equipment, ensuring that every solar system is efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly.
  • Customisable Packages and Savings: Whether you need backup power alone or want to reduce operating expenses through solar supplementation, we provide flexible packages to suit your budget and help minimise large upfront investments.
  • Sustainability: Our solar power solutions enable cost savings while reducing your carbon footprint.

 

Partner with the Power Professionals

As a trusted, family-run business providing backup power systems, we have earned the loyalty of our clients throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. Known for our reliability, expert advice, and excellent service, we ensure that every client receives superior-quality solutions. Whether you need a simple grid-tie system or a complex backup system with batteries and generators, we are ready to assist with top-tier backup solar power solutions.

Our qualified technicians offer support and advice in the selection of the right power solution for your needs by calculating your power requirements.

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