Energy Solutions | Resources

How to Maximize Your Home Energy Investment

Energy News Team — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

With the OBBB Act’s federal incentives now in the rearview mirror, the focus for homeowners has shifted toward long-term value and grid autonomy. It’s no longer about the initial credit, but about how your home performs year-round. By utilizing a standby generator or an energy storage system, you gain the ability to navigate fluctuating energy prices and participate in lucrative grid-sharing programs.

It’s time to stop renting your power and start owning your independence.

The Homeowner's Toolkit: How It All Works

What are Distributed Energy Resources (DERs)?

DERs are simply any energy tool located at your home. Think of them as your personal "energy portfolio." This includes:

Generation: Your solar panels or your PowerProtect™ Standby Generator.
Storage: Your SimpliPHI® 6.6 battery system.
Smart Tech: Your EV charger or smart thermostat.

When these individual tools are connected to the grid, they help create a more resilient energy network for everyone.

Incentives vs. Demand Response vs. VPPs

Incentives (The "Join" Bonus): These are one-time rebates that lower the cost of buying equipment. For example, Connecticut homeowners can get an upfront rebate of up to $16,000 through the Energy Storage Solutions program.
Demand Response (The "Usage" Reward): In these programs, you agree to lower your grid usage when demand is high. If you own a Briggs & Stratton standby generator, you can switch your home’s power to the generator during a "peak event." Partners like Star Energy provide rewards or bill credits for helping the grid stay stable without you losing a single light bulb of power.
Virtual Power Plants (The "Monthly Paycheck"): A VPP networks your battery with others to act like a giant "virtual" power plant. When the grid is stressed, the utility "borrows" power from your battery and pays you for it—often generating $500 to $1,500+ per year in passive income.

2026 Comparison: Top Homeowner Programs

Region / Utility	Program Name	Upfront Rebate (Est.)	Annual Reward (Est.)	Best Tech for the Job
Connecticut	Energy Storage Solutions	$3,000 – $16,000	$1,000 – $1,500	SimpliPHI® Battery
North Carolina	Duke PowerPair	Up to $9,000	$200 – $420	Battery + Solar Package
Puerto Rico	LUMA CBES	None	$600 – $1,200+	SimpliPHI® Battery
California	DSGS	Limited (SGIP)	$350 – $600	SimpliPHI® Battery
Mass. / RI	ConnectedSolutions	None	$900 – $1,800	SimpliPHI® Battery
Nationwide	Star Energy / DR	Varies	Bill Credits	PowerProtect™ Generator

Why Briggs & Stratton for Your Home?

Whether you want the silent, daily savings of a battery or the heavy-duty backup of a generator, our products are built for these 2026 energy landscape.

Safer, Longer-Lasting Batteries

Our SimpliPHI® batteries use Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) chemistry—the gold standard for safety, designed to handle the frequent cycling required by VPP programs for 10+ years.

Most Powerful Generators on Natural Gas

Our PowerProtect™ Standby Generators feature NGMax™ technology, delivering more power on natural gas than competitors. They are certified for "non-emergency" use, meaning you can legally use them to participate in Demand Response programs and get paid.

EnergyTrak™: Total Control from Anywhere.

Monitor your entire energy ecosystem through the intuitive EnergyTrak™ mobile app. Whether you have a SimpliPHI® battery, a PowerProtect™ generator, or a combination of both, you can stay connected to your power from anywhere in the world.
- Real-Time Status: Stay informed with live updates on your power systems and energy usage.
- Instant Alerts: Be the first to know about system status changes or power outages with push notifications.
- Remote Monitoring: Gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home’s energy is ready to respond whenever you need it.

Take Control of Your Utility Bill

Ready to see which 2026 programs are available in your zip code?

Visit our Programs & Incentives Landing Page to find your local savings or Find a Certified Installer to get a custom quote for your home.

Sources & References:

Join the Grid Revolution

Energy News Team — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Turn Your Briggs & Stratton® Batteries into a Community Asset and Earn Rewards.

Now that the 30% federal 25D tax credit for homeowner-owned renewable energy systems has expired (under the OBBB Act), the focus for smart homeowners has shifted.

A Briggs & Stratton® home battery system can help ensure energy independence and security for you and your family. But what if your battery could do more than just sit on standby?

By joining a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), your home becomes part of a smart, decentralized network that supports the electrical grid. You get paid for helping your community stay powered, all while keeping your own backup reserves ready for when you need them most.

What is a Virtual Power Plant?

The "Internet of Energy": A Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is a cloud-based network of decentralized energy resources—like your SimpliPHI™ 6.6 battery systems—working together as a single, powerful entity.

Instead of a utility company relying solely on one massive, centralized power plant (which can be vulnerable to failure or high pollution), they use software to aggregate thousands of individual home batteries. To the grid operator, this collective network looks and acts just like a traditional power plant—hence the name "Virtual Power Plant."

How Does It Work?

Cloud Connection: Your Sol-ArkⓇ or EG4Ⓡ inverter connects your Briggs & Stratton battery to a secure VPP platform via the internet.
The Grid Signal: During times of extreme electricity demand (like a record-breaking heatwave or a cold snap), the utility sends a "dispatch" signal to the VPP network.
Smart Discharge: Your system automatically responds by discharging a small amount of stored energy to help the grid. This reduces the need for the utility to turn on expensive, high-emission "peaker" plants.
Community Support: By sharing energy, you help prevent local brownouts and lower the overall cost of electricity for everyone in your neighborhood.
Homeowner Compensation: In exchange for this service, you receive financial rewards, ranging from upfront rebates to performance-based checks.

Why Participate?

Earn Passive Income: Receive performance-based incentives, upfront payments, or monthly bill credits.
Support Grid Stability: Help prevent local blackouts and brownouts.
Maximize ROI: Speed up the "payback period" of your solar and battery investment.

Stay in Control: You choose how much energy to reserve for your own backup needs. Programs allow you to set a "Backup Reserve" limit (e.g., 20%) so you are never left without power.

Eligible Programs for Briggs & Stratton Customers

If you own a Briggs & Stratton battery paired with either a Sol-Ark or EG4 inverter, you are uniquely positioned to join some of the most lucrative VPP and incentive programs in North America.

Note for Registration: When enrolling in these programs, you will be asked to select your equipment manufacturer. To ensure a seamless connection, choose the brand of your inverter (Sol-Ark or EG4) as the primary manufacturer during the signup process.

Ready to see which programs are available in your area? [View the Updated 2026 State Incentive & VPP Guide.

How It Works for Briggs & Stratton Customers

The Hardware: Your SimpliPHI 6.6 Home Battery System stores solar or grid energy safely using cobalt-free LFP chemistry.
The Intelligence: Your Sol-Ark or EG4 inverter manages the power flow and communicates with the utility.
The Registration: Visit the portal for your specific inverter brand (links above) and follow the enrollment steps. Remember to select your inverter brand as the manufacturer.
The Reward: During a "grid event," the utility requests a small amount of power. You get paid for every kilowatt-hour shared.

Ready to get started?

Join thousands of other homeowners in building a more resilient, sustainable, and profitable energy future.

For Sol-Ark Inverter Systems: Enroll in Sol-Ark VPP Programs
For EG4 Inverter Systems: Enroll in EG4 VPP Incentives

For more information on Briggs & Stratton battery systems, visit our Product Catalog.

Why Your Generator Might Skip a Workout This Winter

Energy News Team — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Those who own a standby generator know your generator’s weekly test is important to maintain and monitor generator readiness. At Briggs & Stratton, we design our standby generators to be smart, efficient, and—above all—reliable.

One of the most common questions we get during the winter months is: "Why didn't my generator run its weekly exercise cycle today?"

If you've noticed your generator staying quiet when it’s freezing outside, don't worry—it’s actually working exactly as designed. Here is everything you need to know about our Eco-Cise™ technology and why "skipping a workout" is sometimes the best thing for your engine.

The Power of Eco-Cise™: Efficiency by Design

Most standby generators on the market run weekly self-tests—typically 5 to 20 minutes for residential units and 20 to 30 minutes for commercial systems. While this keeps the battery charged and the oil circulating, it also consumes fuel and creates noise.

Briggs & Stratton’s Eco-Cise™ mode is different. We’ve shortened the weekly test to just 16 seconds. This ultra-brief cycle is all the engine needs to verify that the starter, fuel system, and internal components are ready for action without the waste.

How the 16-second cycle works:

Unlike longer cycles, the default 16-second exercise maintains peak performance throughout to ensure a rapid and thorough system check.

Start Delay: The first 10 seconds serve as a safety "on-delay."
Active Exercise: This is followed by a 6-second (0.1 minute) exercise period.
Consistent Power: During this entire 16-second window, the engine runs at 3600 RPM, ensuring the system is fully primed and responsive.

Flexible Options for Longer Exercises

We understand that some users prefer a longer run-time for additional peace of mind. If you choose to set your exercise cycle for 5, 10, 15, or 20 minutes, the system utilizes a smart RPM step-down to save energy:

Initial Verification: The first 10 seconds always run at 3600 RPM to ensure a stable start.
Eco-Mode: For the remainder of the chosen duration, the engine drops down to 2800 RPM, significantly reducing noise pollution and fuel consumption while still maintaining vital fluid circulation.

The "40°F Rule": Protecting Your Engine from Moisture

The biggest threat to a cold engine isn't the cold itself—it’s moisture.

When you run an engine for a short period without a "load" (meaning it’s not actually powering your house), the internal temperature doesn't get hot enough to evaporate condensation. In freezing temperatures, this moisture can mix with your oil, creating a "milky" sludge that reduces lubrication quality.

The Cold Weather Skip: If the ambient temperature is below 40°F (4°C), your Briggs & Stratton generator will automatically skip its weekly exercise. We do this to:

Prevent Moisture Buildup: Keeping the engine off prevents condensation from forming in the oil during a "no-load" run.
Reduce Wear and Tear: Cold starts are the toughest part of an engine’s life. If it’s not a real emergency, we’d rather save that "start" for when you actually need power.

Important Note: Skipping an exercise cycle does not affect your generator’s ability to start during a real power outage. If the power goes out, the system will start immediately, regardless of the temperature.

What About Long-Term Moisture? (The Bi-Annual Burn-Off)

Because our weekly cycles are so short, we’ve built in a "Deep Clean" for your engine. Twice a year, in April and September, your generator will perform a 45-minute bi-annual burn-off.

This longer run time allows the engine oil to reach a high enough temperature to fully evaporate any moisture that has accumulated over the previous months. It’s like a detox for your generator's internal components.

Pro-Tips for Dealers & Homeowners

For Homeowners:

Check the Status: If your generator skips a cycle, your controller or EnergyTrak™ app may show a notification. This is normal and requires no action.
Don't "Manual Test" in the Cold: Resist the urge to manually start your generator for a few minutes when it's freezing. If you must run it, let it run long enough to get warm, or wait for a warmer day.

For Dealers:

Educate During Install: Ensure customers understand that the 16-second "Eco-Cise" and the "40°F Skip" are premium features designed to extend the life of the Vanguard® engine.
Flexibility: While 16 seconds is the default, the controller offers five duration options (0.1 min to 20 min). However, the 16-second default is highly recommended for fuel savings and engine health.

The Bottom Line

At Briggs & Stratton, we believe in smart power. By skipping short exercises in extreme cold, we protect your investment from moisture and unnecessary wear, ensuring that when the grid goes down, your generator is ready to step up.

Have questions about your exercise settings? Contact your local Briggs & Stratton dealer today or check your operator’s manual online.

One Kit. Any Generator. Zero Headaches.

Energy News Team — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Let’s be honest: monitoring standby generators has historically been a nightmare.

If you’re a dealer, you know the struggle. You’re juggling different harnesses for different brands, navigating complicated software programs that never seem to work on the first try, and wasting hours on site trying to get things connected. And that’s before you even get to the customers who “aren’t techy" but still need an app for their generator.

The result? Most dealers aren’t monitoring their fleets effectively. And they’re leaving service revenue on the table because the barrier to entry is just too high and too complicated.

It’s time to stop overcomplicating it. Meet the EnergyTrak™ Universal Kit.

Hardware First, Digital Second

Forget about stocking harnesses for every brand or products that require perfect software alignment. The EnergyTrak Universal Kit is a simple piece of hardware with a simple harness and a simple app.

We designed this to be the "Swiss Army Knife" of monitoring. You can put it on virtually any standby generator—regardless of the make or model. It doesn’t matter if it’s a brand-new unit or an older model that’s been humming in a backyard for a decade. If it’s a standby generator, EnergyTrak can likely talk to it.*

*Compatible with most standby generators that provide, or can supply, a continuous 12VDC power source.

The Power of One

How many different monitoring kits do you currently stock? If it’s more than one, it’s too many.

With EnergyTrak, we’ve boiled it down to the essentials:

1 SKU
1 Harness
1 App

That’s it. You don't need a spreadsheet to figure out which monitoring device goes with which generator. You can throw 10 of these in your truck and know with 100% certainty that you have the right part for whatever unit you run into in the field.* And the app is built for the field or the office, giving you a single view into your entire fleet from a mobile device or desktop computer.

Build a Better Service Model

This isn’t just about making installation easier; it’s about your bottom line. The EnergyTrak Universal Kit is designed for dealers who want to build a serious service revenue stream. Because it’s so easy to install—even on competitor units—you can monitor your entire fleet from one unified dashboard, helping to offer premium service packages to customers.

Streamlined Operations: Stop rolling trucks for false alarms.
Universal Compatibility: Service units you didn't even sell originally.
Unbeatable Value: It delivers premium monitoring capabilities at a price point that makes sense. For homeowners, this means affordable peace of mind without the headache of complex technology.

While the hardware does the heavy lifting, the app connectivity keeps you and your customer connected—whether on a phone or back in the office. It’s the perfect blend of rugged hardware reliability and modern app convenience.

Ready to Simplify?

The EnergyTrak Universal Kit is designed to be compatible with any standby generator, regardless of brand or model, providing remote monitoring capabilities even for generators not manufactured by Briggs & Stratton.

Have a specific model in question? Contact your local Briggs & Stratton dealer to confirm compatibility and get started maximizing your service potential today.

*Compatibility Requirements: EnergyTrak is compatible with most standby generators that provide, or can supply, a continuous 12VDC power source. This typically refers to the auxiliary 12VDC output used for battery charging or controller logic. Please consult your generator’s technical manual or wiring diagram to confirm it provides a constant 12VDC supply. Systems that only provide intermittent power or a different voltage (e.g., 24VDC) are not compatible without an external power adapter.

Finding the Perfect Match

Energy News Team — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:00:00 GMT

February is the month of "perfect matches," but while you’re picking out chocolates or planning dinners, Mother Nature often has other plans—like ice storms and unpredictable outages. When the grid goes down, the real heartbreak isn't a canceled reservation; it’s a cold house and a fridge full of spoiled food.

At Briggs & Stratton, we believe the key to a long-term relationship with your home backup system is right-sizing. If your generator is too small, it won’t handle the "spark" of your AC kicking on. If it’s too large, you’re paying for power you’ll never use.

Here is everything you need to know about finding "The One" for your home this February.

The Big Questions: What Homeowners are Searching For in 2026

To give you the best advice, we looked at the most frequent searches hitting the web this season. Here’s what you need to know:

1. "Can I size a generator based on my home's square footage?"

The Expert Answer: Square footage is a starting point, but it’s not the whole story. A 2,500 sq. ft. home with a gas furnace needs far less power than a 2,500 sq. ft. home with an all-electric heat pump and an EV charger. Sizing is about electrical load, not floor space.

2. "What is the difference between Running Watts and Starting Watts?"

This is where many "matches" fail.

Running (Rated) Watts: Either measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), the continuous power needed to keep things going (like your lights and TV).
Starting (Surge) Watts: Also known as “motor starting,” this is the massive burst of energy required to kickstart large motors, such as those in your refrigerator, well pump, or HVAC system.

The Briggs Advantage: Our PowerProtect™ generators are engineered to handle these surges more effectively than other brands, ensuring your heavy-load appliances start smoothly every time. Simply check the generator’s specifications for the motor starting “kVA.” To ensure a perfect fit, your Briggs & Stratton dealer can analyze your energy usage and help you find the right size for your specific needs.

3. "Does natural gas reduce my generator's power?"

In general, the answer is yes. However, Briggs & Stratton’s NGMax™ technology ensures that if you are using natural gas, you get the highest power output available. A little known fact to most homeowners is that standby generators are mainly rated on their power output on liquid propane. The “26kW” on a generator means that generator is designed and tested to produce 26 kilowatts (kW) of power on liquid propane (LP). That’s because LP is a more efficient fuel source. We’ve engineered our generators to provide optimized performance on the fuel most homes already have - natural gas.

Meet the PowerProtect™ Lineup: Your Perfect Match

Whether you want to keep the kitchen running or your whole home, we have a model designed for your lifestyle.

	The Best Match	Why You'll Love It
Essential Power	13kW PowerProtect™	The smallest footprint in its class. Perfect for tight lot lines, it handles your fridge, lights, and sump pump with ease.
Balanced Comfort	18kW or 22kW PowerProtect™	These models provide reliable, unmatched power. Featuring NGMax™ for full power on Natural Gas and Eco-Cise™ for efficient testing, they offer more power and value than other leading generators on the market.
Total Whole-Home	26kW PowerProtect™	The powerhouse generator. It offers more motor starting power than other brands, handling AC units and high-end appliances simultaneously.

Why Briggs & Stratton is the Relationship That Lasts

When you choose a generator, you aren't just buying a machine; you’re buying peace of mind for the next decade.

NGMax™ Technology: While all standby generators drop in power output on natural gas, Briggs & Stratton standby generators deliver . You get the power you actually paid for.
The Best Warranty in the Game: Our 7-year comprehensive warranty covers mileage, labor, and parts. No hidden fees—just total protection for the full length of your warranty..
Compact & Quiet: Our units are designed to be discrete, running at noise levels comparable to a normal conversation, so you—and your neighbors—can sleep soundly during an outage.

Pro Tip: Don't guess your math. Use our Free Online Wattage Calculator to see exactly how much power your specific appliances need.

Ready to Find Your Match?

Don’t let the next winter storm break your heart. Whether you’re looking for a compact 13kW unit or the powerful 26kW whole-home solution, we have the engineering to keep your love (and power) flowing.

Find a Dealer Near You

The 2026 Energy Outlook: Record Demand, Grid Strain, and Your Path to Power Independence

Energy News Team — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

As we move through 2026, the American energy landscape is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. Electricity demand isn’t just growing—it is surging toward historic heights. This year is defined by a high-stakes "execution test" for the power grid, where growth, resilience, and competition for resources take center stage.

Here is what the latest data tells us about the power landscape this year and how you can stay ahead of the curve.

1. Record-Breaking Demand is the New Normal

Total U.S. electricity consumption is projected to hit an all-time high in 2026. This follows a dramatic departure from the flat demand seen throughout the 2010s, as record-breaking U.S. power consumption projections for 2026 indicate a sustained upward trend.

What is driving this surge?

The AI and Data Boom: Specialized data centers for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing now draw as much electricity as small cities.
The Shift to Electric: Homes and businesses are increasingly moving away from fossil fuels, using electricity for everything from high-efficiency heat pumps to transportation.
Industrial Electrification: The "race to build factories" is in full swing, with new manufacturing hubs for batteries and semiconductors placing massive, constant loads on regional grids.

2. The Grid Resilience Gap: Why the Infrastructure is Strained

While demand is soaring, the physical capacity of the grid is struggling to keep pace. As the World Economic Forum’s analysis of 2026 energy themes notes, the focus has shifted from long-term environmental pledges to the immediate "execution test" of keeping the lights on and taming rising bills.

The strain is most evident in states facing frequent weather-related outages and aging infrastructure. Recent data from the top 5 states for power outages highlights where residents feel the most pressure:

California: Faces unique challenges from wildfires and heat waves, often leading to proactive utility shutoffs.
Texas: Operates an independent grid that remains highly vulnerable to extreme temperature swings during summer and winter.
Tennessee: A newcomer to the high-risk list, where older infrastructure has struggled to handle the load during recent record cold snaps.
Michigan: Known for frequent and long-lasting outages caused by severe storms and fallen branches.
Ohio: Continues to battle the limitations of outdated energy management systems during peak demand events.

3. Strategic Solutions: Taking Control of Your Power

In 2026, energy security will become synonymous with economic stability. As competition for grid connections intensifies, the most resilient homes will be those that prioritize bill stability and local independence.

The Briggs & Stratton® SimpliPHI® 6.6 Battery: Your Economic Shield

According to projections from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Short-Term Energy Outlook, natural gas prices are forecasted to remain volatile—often averaging over $4.00/MMBtu during peak seasons. Because natural gas is a primary driver of electricity generation, utility costs are expected to follow this upward trend. Our SimpliPHI 6.6 Batteries provide a critical defense against these rising rates:

Capture Low-Cost Energy: Store power from the grid or solar panels when rates are lowest.
Time-of-Use Management: Use your stored energy during peak afternoon and evening hours to avoid high utility surcharges.
Seamless Transition: Provide instant, silent backup that keeps your home running without a flicker during a grid failure.

PowerProtect™ Standby Generators: The Ultimate Safety Net

When the grid cannot meet record summer or winter peaks, a standby generator provides the absolute reliability required for modern life.

Rugged Resilience: Engineered to withstand the extreme weather patterns causing grid failures in states like Texas and Tennessee.
Extended Protection: Unlike systems that rely on a single source, a generator provides long-term power security that lasts as long as your fuel supply.

Near-Term Impact Over Distant Targets

The theme for 2026 is clear: Don't just wait for the grid to improve—ensure your home is ready now. By combining the advanced storage of the SimpliPHI 6.6 with the rugged reliability of a PowerProtect Standby Generator, you can build a personal energy ecosystem that is cleaner, more stable, and entirely under your control.

See Resilience in Action. You don’t have to take our word for it. Thousands of homeowners have already made the switch to a more secure future. Visit our Testimonials Page to see how others have successfully used Briggs & Stratton solutions to become energy resilient, lower their utility bills, and gain peace of mind in this record-breaking year.

2026 Solar Incentives Guide: Why Briggs & Stratton Battery Storage Pays Off

Energy News Team — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

It’s 2026, and if you’re running a business, a farm, or a commercial facility, the way you think about energy has likely shifted. The "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB) Act and evolving IRS regulations have changed the math on solar.

At Briggs & Stratton, we’ve spent over a century helping people power through challenges. Today, that means helping your business turn energy from an overhead cost into a high-yield financial asset.

Here’s how the 2026 regulatory landscape works and why ownership—specifically with the Briggs & Stratton^Ⓡ SimpliPHI^Ⓡ 6.6 Battery—is the smartest move for your bottom line.

1. The Federal Shift: Business Ownership vs. Residential Sunset

The biggest news of 2026? The residential tax credit (Section 25D) has officially sunset. However, for the B2B world, the Commercial Investment Tax Credit (Section 48E) is still very much alive.

The 30% Base Credit: Businesses can still claim a 30% federal tax credit on solar and battery storage systems.
Ownership Matters: To claim the Section 48E credit, the business must own the system. This allows you to retain all the depreciation benefits and performance payments that a "lease" or "PPA" model would take from you.

2. Agriculture & Rural Business: The REAP "Double Dip"

If you operate a rural small business or agricultural site, the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is your best friend in 2026.

50% Grant Funding: The USDA continues to offer grants covering up to 50% of total project costs.
The "Double Dip": You can stack the REAP grant on top of the 30% federal ITC.
MACRS Depreciation: Businesses can significantly accelerate their ROI by utilizing the Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS), which classifies solar and storage as 5-year property. According to IRS Publication 946, this allows you to write off the equipment much faster than traditional building improvements.

3. Regional Highlights: Where the ROI is Fastest

State incentives in 2026 are filling the gap left by residential shifts, and the Midwest and West Coast are leading the charge.

Illinois Shines (SRECs): Illinois remains a goldmine for B2B. Through the Illinois Shines program, businesses receive direct payments for the energy they produce. Combine this with ComEd’s Distributed Energy Rebates ($300/kWh for storage), and a scaled Briggs & Stratton system practically pays for itself.
Wisconsin Focus on Energy: Our home state has increased B2B rebates to help businesses offset peak demand charges. The Focus on Energy program offers substantial prescriptive rebates for commercial solar+storage.
California DSGS: The Demand Side Grid Support (DSGS) program pays California businesses to discharge their batteries during peak grid stress. It turns your battery from a "backup" into a "paycheck."

4. Why the SimpliPHI 6.6 is Built for B2B ROI

In the commercial world, time is money and downtime is a disaster. We designed the SimpliPHI 6.6 to solve both:

RapidStak™ Technology: Our stackable design allows for ultra-fast installation. Less time on the roof or in the electrical room means lower labor costs for your project.
Scalability: Start small to shave peak demand charges, or scale up to 119.7 kWh per stack to provide full facility backup. Ideal for smaller commercial and retail operations.
Inverter Agnostic: Briggs & Stratton designed its SimpliPHI 6.6 battery to be inverter agnostic, meaning it pairs seamlessly with all major inverters on the market. This means that you have more options for system configurations that meet your specific needs.
LFP Chemistry – The Safety Standard for 2026: In 2026, insurance compliance is tougher than ever. We utilize Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) chemistry—the gold standard for fire safety and thermal stability. Whether you are operating in a temperature-sensitive farm environment or a high-traffic retail space, our cobalt-free LFP batteries provide the peace of mind that comes with non-combustible energy storage.
Longevity: We back our technology with a 15-year warranty. In an era of fly-by-night energy startups, the Briggs & Stratton name stands for reliability.

5. Virtual Power Plants (VPP): The Ongoing Revenue Stream

According to the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA), commercial and industrial (C/I) participants are now eligible for lucrative programs across the country:

California: The Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP) specifically targets non-residential (commercial, industrial, and agricultural) customers to stabilize the grid.
Connecticut: The Energy Storage Solutions program offers performance incentives for C/I systems.
Massachusetts & Rhode Island: Through ConnectedSolutions, businesses can earn thousands annually.

By owning your system, you keep 100% of these performance payments. With a Briggs & Stratton system, that revenue stays on your balance sheet.

Your 2026 Solar Action Plan

The regulations are complex, but the opportunity has never been better. To maximize your 2026 ROI:

Confirm Ownership: Ensure you own the equipment to capture all performance payments and VPP revenue.
Apply for REAP grants early if you are in a rural area.
Choose scalable hardware like the SimpliPHI 6.6 to ensure you can grow as utility rates rise.

Ready to see the math for your facility? Contact a Business Development Manager near you today. Let’s own the power together.

Sources & References

Attribution: Sol-Ark^Ⓡ, EG4^Ⓡ, Solis^Ⓡ, Megarevo^Ⓡ, and Growatt^Ⓡ are registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Consult your local utility and a qualified tax professional for detailed information of programs and incentives available in your area and how they may impact the cost of your system and possible utility incentives.

Refurbished Batteries Supply Off-grid Power to California Preserve

Energy News Team — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Nestled in the Ojai foothills in Ventura County, California, Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve is a 264-acre property stewarded by the non-profit Conservation Endowment Fund. It was founded in 1981 by John Taft with a mission to educate the public about its environmental heritage, preserve endangered resources and explore the relationship between humans and their environment.

In addition to its cultivated South African, Australian and developing California gardens, Taft has more than 200 acres of stewarded open space that acts as a wildlife corridor. California Gray Fox, Mule Deer, Bobcat and hundreds of other species that find safe haven on the property.

Thanks to a four-person staff and a handful of volunteers, Taft Gardens welcomes thousands of visitors each year and is able to host ongoing education events and activities.

One of those dedicated staff members is Alexandra Upton who serves as the visitor and restoration coordinator. In her role, she handles guest relations, events and the planting of an oak woodland ecosystem restoration project. Alexandra recruited her husband, Cash, to volunteer his time.

In his “day job,” Cash designs and sells solar for Brighten Solar, based in Santa Barbara. When Taft Gardens needed help designing an off-grid system to supply power to its welcome kiosks and gift shop, he was an obvious choice. The nonprofit had previously used batteries but, with 10-plus years of life on them, they were no longer functioning reliably.

Cash reached out to Briggs & Stratton with a request for equipment. The company responded by donating three refurbished SimpliPHI^Ⓡ 6.6 batteries that provide nearly 20kWh.

“Having power at our guest check-in kiosk makes it a smoother and more efficient process,” says Jaide Whitman, executive director of Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve. “In addition, it saves us from having to rely on spotty mobile reception for gift shop transactions.”

The batteries were installed just a few months ago and have reliably been providing power to outlets, lights, a Starlink internet connection and small register.

“I completed the installation of the batteries and wiring to the Sol-Ark^Ⓡ inverter, and I must say it was probably the easiest and quickest battery I've ever built,” says Kyle Maness with Mesa Electric.

For more than a decade, Briggs & Stratton has had a battery recycling and refurbishment program. When used batteries come back, they go through a comprehensive process. Technicians first test each battery to evaluate its remaining capacity and overall condition. Batteries that pass the initial testing undergo comprehensive refurbishment and are put through rigorous safety checks. Once a battery is refurbished, it is re-tested to ensure that it meets specific performance standards

“We’re always looking to give batteries a “second life’ and were delighted to help Taft Gardens by supplying high-functioning equipment to them,” says Sequoya Cross, vice president of energy storage for Briggs & Stratton Energy Solutions. “We’ve been donating systems to nonprofits around the world for over 10 years and this time we got to help out an organization that’s close to home.”

Three refurbished Briggs & Stratton^Ⓡ SimpliPHI^Ⓡ 6.6 batteries were donated to Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve and now provide power for outlets, lights, a Starlink internet connection and small register at the nonprofit’s welcome kiosks and gift shop.

Real Stories, Real Reliability: How Homeowners are Securing Their Power with Briggs & Stratton

Energy News Team — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT

In an era of increasingly volatile weather and an aging power grid, energy independence has moved from a luxury to a necessity. Whether it’s surviving a Texas deep freeze, a Vermont blizzard, or a Gulf Coast hurricane, the peace of mind that comes with reliable backup power is priceless.

Below, we’ve gathered stories from real Briggs & StrattonEnergy Solutions customers—from retired engineers to rural homesteaders—who have taken control of their energy future.

2026: The New Standard for Energy Independence

Nick and Traci:

Tech-Forward Resilience in North Carolina

For Nick and Traci, moving to Morehead City meant finding their "forever home." Nick, an electrical engineer who works from home, requires stable, uninterrupted power for his high-demand setup. After a frustrating experience with an overseas battery manufacturer, they switched to Briggs & Stratton SimpliPHI 6.6® batteries.

"What stood out about Briggs & Stratton® was the fact that they’re a U.S.-based company with a U.S. support team. We didn’t want to go with another overseas company," Nick explains. "We had a storm the other week and were on battery power four times and my wife didn’t even notice".

Gregg:

A Utility Veteran’s Choice in Texas

When you’ve spent 55 years in the utility industry, you know exactly what reliable looks like. Gregg lives in a remote area of North Texas with his wife and their flock of sheep. When five tornadoes swept through the area in April 2025, their SimpliPHI® battery stack was put to the ultimate test.

"We had been running on battery power for more than 28 hours and there were no issues. In fact, we even took hot showers in the midst of the storms," says Gregg. "The batteries basically powered our entire house for more than a day".

Surviving the Storm: Standby Generator Stories

Bret and Becky:

Taking the Hit in Houston

Long-time Houstonians Bret and Becky are used to hurricanes, but Hurricane Beryl in 2024 brought an unexpected challenge: a 30-foot palm tree falling directly onto their 26kW PowerProtect generator.

"The generator sustained exterior damage but continued to operate without issue," Bret notes. Despite the impact, the unit powered two A/C units and allowed them to host neighbors for coffee during the 36-hour outage."

David:

From Fire Chief to Home Safety Advocate

Having served 40 years in the fire department, David knows the dangers of portable generators. Looking for a permanent, safer solution for his retirement, he chose a 20kW standby unit.

"Briggs & Stratton ran so well for me for four days straight after Hurricane Zeta... I didn’t even have to throw out a gallon of milk," David shares.

Tim:

Avoiding the "Oversell" in Texas

Retirement for Tim meant moving closer to family, but it also meant dealing with the Texas heat. After a "generator superstore" tried to upsell him, Tim found a local dealer who recommended a right-sized 12kW generator.

"The reliability of the Vanguard engine definitely struck me as really important... We were actually able to help not only ourselves, but our extended family to weather through the [2021] storm," Tim says.

Energy Autonomy: Living Off the Grid

Bob and Barbara:

Preserving History in Vermont

Living in a historic home (parts of which date back to 1812) in the Green Mountains presents unique wiring and weather challenges. Bob and Barbara utilize PHI 3.8kWh batteries to maintain energy autonomy while preserving the picturesque look of their homestead.

"If we lose power, I can get three straight days from the batteries to these essential items. I don’t really think about them much because they don’t make any noise and they’re reliable," says Bob.

Kevin:

50 Acres of Independence

For Kevin, the goal was simple: autonomy. In 2023, he took his rural property off the grid using AmpliPHI 3.8kWh batteries housed in weather-resistant cabinets.

"Now that we’re used to having it around, I don’t even think about it. We have a comfort level knowing we don’t have to depend on the utility for power," Kevin remarks.

Peace of Mind: Security for Loved Ones

Karamaneh:

A Safety Net for Health

In rural Tennessee, power outages were more than an inconvenience for Karamaneh; they were a threat to her son’s respiratory health. The constant stress of packing temperature-sensitive medications ended once they installed a standby generator.

"I don't think you can really put a price on not having to worry," Karamaneh says. "It gives the parent of a medically fragile child some peace of mind".

Lee:

Protecting an Aging Parent

Lee lives hours away from her 83-year-old mother in Texas. After her mother endured a week without power in a tornado-prone area, Lee arranged for a standby generator with a 10-year warranty.

"I really believe the reason she didn't have damage like everyone else and the pipes didn't freeze in the walls is because she had power," Lee reflects after a record-breaking winter storm.

Technical Excellence: The Engineer’s Perspective

Paul:

High Demand, Low Cost

Paul charges his EV almost every day and runs four A/C units in the summer. Despite this high usage, he hasn’t had an electric bill in three years thanks to his solar-plus-battery system.

"I didn’t want to be without power and heat during the winter... even if we briefly lose power, the battery system kicks in within seconds," says Paul.

James:

The Silent Switch in the Poconos

As a retired mechanical engineer, James wanted a system that was automatic and quiet. He paired a 12kW standby generator with SimpliPHI 6.6 batteries.

"What I love about the batteries is the fact that I don’t even know when the grid is down because the batteries kick in instantaneously," James notes.

Do you have a story of how Briggs & Stratton kept your lights on?

We’d love to hear it. Submit your testimonial today and help your neighbors find their own peace of mind.

Submit Your Testimonial

Why Choose Briggs & Stratton?

Unmatched Reliability

From palm tree impacts to week-long deep freezes, our systems are built to keep life normal.
Safety & Longevity

Our LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) batteries run cooler and last longer than traditional chemistries.
U.S.-Based Support

Customers like Nick and Traci value our domestic engineering and support teams.

How Does a Home Generator Work?

Energy News Team — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Home generators are an ideal backup power option, but how do they work? Backup home generators — also called standby generators — are permanently installed on your property. They are connected to either a natural gas utility line or liquid propane tanks to power your home when a power outage occurs. A backup home generator package solution includes a standby generator and an automatic transfer switch.

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is connected to the home’s electrical panel. The unique controls enable the ATS and electrical panel to work together to manage the backup power needs of the entire home. The ATS constantly monitors the home’s connection to utility power and recognizes when power is lost from the utility line.

When the ATS determines power is lost, it automatically powers on the generator. This entire process — from the ATS detecting lost power to the generator powering on — takes less than 20 seconds. All standby generators are automatic, making their use seamless and worry-free compared to other options. Once your backup home generator is running and powering your homes needs it will continue to provide power unless the utility power is brought back. Your ATS will recognize the utility power is restored and switch the generator off.

All standby generators are automatic, making their use seamless and worry-free compared to other options.

In addition to the generator and ATS, there are also power management options to help keep the generator from being overworked.

For select-circuit or whole home generator installations, there is no other interaction done with your backup power system. However, if you have a power management system installed and are operating a managed home, you may take additional steps during an outage depending on your needs.

One power management option is the Amplify power management system. This system lets you actively control and monitor the generator right from your smartphone using the Standby Generator Management app. This means that once your power goes out, you can use the system to monitor the generator and how it is running no matter where you are, home or away. During an outage, the app lets you communicate with your generator, which works with the transfer switch so you can even switch power from one circuit to another as needed. With up to 32 high-wattage appliances connected, this system offers more flexibility and control over your space while still protecting against overloading.

Another power management system option is the Symphony II Transfer Switch. It automatically manages the distribution of power for you by communicating with your generator and your home’s wiring. If you have the Symphony II transfer switch, then you select up to eight high-wattage appliances and prioritize them to set the system up. Then Symphony II powers the appliances you need in that order, ensuring the system won't overload and shut down. When you stop using certain appliances or shut them off, other appliances will kick in. For example: If you’re using a dishwasher and a stove, the air conditioning unit may not be on. But once you shut those appliances off, the air conditioner will kick on in seconds.

With all these options, home generators of any size can be customizable to fit your needs. From the moment your power goes out to the moment it is restored, your generator will be working hard to give you the power you need. Whether installed at a small or extra-large home, your home generator will turn on within seconds of a power outage, making sure you don’t miss a beat.

Ready to start protecting your home?

Our Whole-House Generator Sizing Calculator allows you to select what you want to power in your home and directs you to the appropriate-sized generator system.

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