How Generators and Energy Storage Work Together for the Ultimate Backup Power

GenSpring Power tested the first Briggs & Stratton energy storage system installed in Georgia. The results exceeded their expectations. GenSpring now states the “Briggs & Stratton battery system is the energy storage solution for Georgia residents who want to eliminate dangerous power outages.” A growing concern for Georgians has been storm and hurricane-related power outages. Recently, 200,000 people were left without power for several hours after a severe storm swept through the state. 

According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average power outage between 2013 and 2020 was 2 hours without a major event and 8 hours with a major event. There are exceptions to these averages; however, the innovative solutions tested by GenSpring Power have the capability to meet the needs of most homeowners during a typical power outage.

The installed system is the AccESS 15.2 kW with four PHI 3.8 kWh 48 VDC batteries, a Sol-Ark 12K Inverter, and an integrated Charge Controller. The four batteries store energy, so it can be converted into the equivalent of utility power when called upon. The system is grid-tied and backed up with a natural gas generator. A critical circuit sub-panel covers the entire home: lighting, gas furnace, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, small appliances, home office, and entertainment center. During the test, the transition from utility power was immediate, and life went on as usual, totally uninterrupted.

The results of the test were impressive. For over 7 hours, the system flawlessly served the energy load. When the battery voltage reached the lower voltage set point, the generator automatically came on. It simultaneously began serving the critical circuits while, at the same time, recharging the four batteries. The entire process was seamless, meaning zero loss of power occurred during the changeover from utility power to the Briggs & Stratton energy storage system (ESS) or the generator when called upon to supplement. The test demonstrates that during short power outages, natural gas or propane consumption for the generator can be either eliminated or substantially reduced. For the generator, this means fewer starts and stops, resulting in a longer life for your generator while saving fuel and money. The test showed that the system provided reliable energy without interruption, reducing the need for generator fuel and extending its lifespan, thus offering cost savings.

Another great feature of the AccESS energy storage system is that it is easily scalable. Additional battery storage can be added for greater run time, and additional inverters can be added to allow greater capacity to serve larger electric loads. Solar panels can be added to charge the batteries during operation, potentially further reducing the need for generator power. With more than 60 diverse and scalable UL 9540 Certified configurations, the Briggs & Stratton AccESS system empowers you to establish resilience and energy security while achieving daily cost savings. With a remarkable 98% efficiency rate, you can rely on consistent and dependable access to power around the clock, every day of the week.

Briggs & Stratton Energy Storage Solutions provides distributed energy storage systems that are robust and dependable safeguards against the risks and potential losses associated with power outages. These systems ensure continuous energy availability, leveraging advanced technology to maintain critical operations and protect against the unpredictability of grid instability. By integrating these solutions, individuals and businesses benefit from enhanced energy security, minimizing downtime and preserving productivity and comfort during electrical interruptions.