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In Southern Oregon, power outages are becoming increasingly common during the summer months. This hot and dry time of year is often marred by utility power shutdowns aimed at preventing wildfires (Pacific Power calls it a Public Safety Power Shutoff, or PSPS Program).

If you’re like many of us, you’re dealing with constant power disruptions this summer. Consider powering your home or business with solar energy paired with a backup battery (often called Solar + Storage). This is a great alternative to backing up with a generator. It’s important to consider all options because it’s a big investment either way.

The benefits of solar + storage include an endless and free power supply (during the day), quiet operation, and reduced costs (through government incentives). While a generator might get used a few times per year, a solar + storage system works day-in and day-out, powering your home with one of Southern Oregon’s greatest natural resources: sunshine.

Solar + storage has only recently become competitive with whole-home backup generators as technology has advanced. Local solar installers have begun offering this option, and homeowners seem quite pleased with the results: they are the envy of the entire neighborhood during blackouts as their AC keeps on cranking through the day, with solar energy leading the way.

Powering homes and businesses is getting more challenging every year. Power companies are caught trying to appease two diverging priorities: preventing wildfires while also providing continuous power to all of our homes. That’s getting more and more complicated and expensive every year.

Here in Southern Oregon, we’ve always prided ourselves on creating local solutions to local problems and self-sufficiency. It makes sense to use our natural resources to their highest potential and solve this local problem.

In the face of increasing power disruptions, relying on solar energy coupled with battery storage is more than just a practical solution—it’s a smart investment in long-term resilience. With solar + storage, you’re not just keeping the lights on — you’re ensuring that your critical systems, like refrigeration, medical devices, or communication tools, remain operational no matter what’s happening outside.

Beyond the obvious convenience, there are significant financial and environmental incentives to consider. Federal and state tax credits can offset a substantial portion of the installation costs, making solar + storage more accessible than ever. Additionally, the Oregon Department of Energy offers rebates for energy storage systems, further reducing the financial burden.

Choosing solar + storage reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint. Unlike traditional generators, which require regular maintenance and fuel, solar + storage systems are virtually maintenance-free and operate quietly, providing peace of mind without the noise and pollution associated with generator use.

The urgency of adopting a reliable backup power solution has never been clearer. Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, making power outages more common. At the same time, the technology for solar + storage has matured, offering a dependable, cost-effective alternative to traditional generators.

Moreover, the costs associated with energy storage have dropped significantly in recent years, and with ongoing advancements in technology, they are expected to decrease even further. For Southern Oregon residents, this is an opportune moment to invest in solar + storage, ensuring that you’re prepared for whatever the future may bring.

Imagine a future where entire neighborhoods remain powered during outages, where homes generate and store their own energy, and where our community becomes a model of self-reliance and sustainability. By embracing solar + storage solutions, we’re not just preparing for the next power outage—we’re investing in a more resilient and sustainable Southern Oregon.

If you’re looking for a way to keep your home or business powered, protect your family, and make a positive impact on the environment, solar + storage is the way to go.