Backup power is something that is becoming necessary in South Africa due to consistent issues experienced with the power utility company such as unforeseen power outages or even extended power outages.
Loadshedding in South Africa has become more reliable than the duration of time that loadshedding is conducted, forcing South Africans to look for backup power for their businesses and homes.
With the continuous issues faced with load-shedding, the demand for backup power suppliers who offer generators for sale has increased.
However, when choosing a source of backup power, consumers must realise that there is more than one way to obtain power, and two of the most popular means revolves around generators and backup batteries.
Which is the best for your unique circumstances? Continue reading to discover the vital differences between these two sources.
Generators versus Backup Batteries
Generators
Generators have different fuel types, builds, run-times, and competitive prices. A standby generator, whether it’s diesel generators, inverter generators, petrol generators, or any others, provide emergency backup electricity during outages and they have the following pros:
- They are innovative and easily obtainable with easy installation and operation.
- Most generators are portable and easy to transport.
- They do not have expensive upfront costs such as backup batteries.
Disadvantages include:
- Petrol and diesel generators rely heavily on fossil fuel, and this means that they release Carbon Dioxide and other greenhouse gasses.
- Diesel generators are extremely noisy and not suitable for use in quiet neighbourhoods, complexes, apartments, and so on.
- Generators have maintenance requirements that can add to additional costs.
Backup Batteries
Batteries can be considered as external hard drives which are always geared to go when you need them. However, backup batteries are significantly more complex than generators and there are different types to consider such as:
- Off-grid DC-coupled batteries
- Off-grid AC-coupled batteries
- Grid-tied AC and DC-coupled batteries
The advantages of backup batteries are:
- They provide users with access to backup power whenever the grid is off.
- These batteries can avoid peak utility rates when they derive power from the battery when there are peak times during the day where electricity costs more.
- Batteries can store daytime solar electricity and can then be used during the night, reducing overall electricity consumption.
- They are environmentally friendly, produce clean energy and do not have toxic emissions.
The drawbacks of battery backup power relate to:
- The fact that backup batteries are far more expensive.
- These batteries can use toxic chemicals, precious metals, or a combination of such as lead-acid batteries.
Generator or Batteries – Which is better?
Backup batteries are a long-term investment in South Africa and warranties can extend to over 10 years or 10,000 cycles. The initial investment may be costly, but they require less maintenance, and the battery is readily available without much hassle. These batteries can also reduce overall consumption.
Generators can be plugged into an existing power feed and automatically turn on once connectivity to the grid is lost. Generators are a reliable option, especially if some medical devices or appliances need constant power.
Battery backup is greener and more sustainable, allowing users in South Africa to contribute towards lowering their carbon footprint and power consumption overall.
