What Does Generac Power Cell Cost?
The Generac Power Cell system is a home battery backup and solar energy storage solution. It uses lithium-ion battery modules to store electricity from solar panels or the grid to provide power backup during outages. Key features of the Generac Power Cell include:
- Modular battery design allowing scalable electricity storage capacity from 9kWh up to 36kWh.
- Works with or without solar panels to provide backup power.
- Automated system switches to battery power within seconds of outage detection.
- Can power essential home loads for hours or days depending on configuration.
- App monitoring of power usage, battery status, and outage notifications.
In this article, we will take a deeper look at the costs involved with purchasing and installing a Generac Power Cell system for your home.
Upfront Purchase Cost
The upfront cost to purchase the full Generac PWRcell solar + storage system ranges from $11,000 to $18,000, according to SolarReviews.com. [1] This price includes the solar panels, battery storage units, inverter, and other components needed for a complete solar and backup power system.
For comparison, a standalone whole home backup generator from Generac can cost $3,000 to $15,000 for the unit itself. However the PWRcell system provides solar energy production and battery storage on top of backup power during outages. So while the upfront cost is higher, it includes additional functionalities.
The PWRcell system’s total price depends on the number of battery modules included, the solar array size, as well as local installation costs and incentives. More batteries provide longer backup runtime during power outages but add to the overall system cost.
[1] https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/generac-power-cell-expert-review
Installation Cost
The average cost to install a Generac PWRcell system professionally is around $7,500-$10,000, depending on system size and location. This covers labor and miscellaneous electrical components and wiring needed for the installation. Installation cost can vary widely based on factors like:[1]
- System size – Larger systems with more batteries cost more to install
- Location – Labor rates are higher in some markets like California
- Complexity – Retrofitting an existing solar system is more complex than new installs
- Permits – Some areas require extensive permitting adding labor costs
- Difficulty – Challenging home layouts or wiring can increase complexity
Installing the PWRcell yourself as a DIY project can save thousands in labor costs, but also comes with risks if done incorrectly. The batteries weigh hundreds of pounds, requiring special equipment to move and install safely. Electrical work must meet local codes and incorrect wiring can be a fire hazard. For most homeowners, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper, safe operation. But DIY is an option for the very ambitious.
[1] https://www.energysage.com/solar/solar-energy-storage/generac-pwrcell-home-battery/
Operating Costs
The Generac PWRcell has minimal ongoing electricity and maintenance costs compared to being fully grid-tied. According to Forbes, the Generac PWRcell system can help reduce dependence on grid electricity by up to 90%, which minimizes monthly utility bills (source: https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/generac-pwrcell-battery-cost/). The system is also designed to be maintenance-free, with no need for manual battery checks or fluid refills.
In contrast, being completely grid-tied means full exposure to volatile electricity prices that tend to trend upwards over time. There are also recurring delivery and service fees charged by the utility company. The Generac PWRcell system provides energy cost stability and insulation from grid power outages once installed and running.
Battery Replacement
The Generac PWRcell battery system is expected to last 10-15 years before needing replacement. The lithium ion phosphate batteries have a long lifespan compared to lead acid batteries. As per Generac, the PWRcell battery warranty covers 10 years. While the batteries should continue working beyond the warranty period, their capacity and performance will degrade over time.
The cost of replacing PWRcell batteries will depend on the system size. Each PWRcell battery module costs around $2,000. So for a basic 9 kWh system with 3 battery modules, replacement cost would be about $6,000. On the higher end, replacing all 6 modules in an 18 kWh system would cost around $12,000.
When it’s time for battery replacement, owners can either replace the entire PWRcell unit or just the degraded battery modules. Replacing only the worn out modules may help reduce the cost somewhat. Overall battery replacement for the PWRcell represents a significant future investment that should be planned for.
Tax Credits & Incentives
The Generac PWRcell system qualifies for the federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows homeowners to deduct 26% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes through 2032. The ITC applies to both the PWRcell battery and any paired solar panels. For example, if you install a 17 kWh PWRcell system with solar panels costing $30,000 total, you could deduct $7,800 from your federal taxes that year (Forbes, 2023).
Some states, cities, and utilities also offer additional rebates or incentives for installing a PWRcell system. These can help further reduce the net cost. For instance, California offers the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) that provides rebates of $850 per kWh of energy storage capacity, up to three hours of storage. So for a 17 kWh PWRcell system, you could qualify for a $14,450 rebate in California (Solar Reviews, 2022). Check your local state and utility websites to see what incentives may be available in your area.
Resale Value
The Generac Power Cell system holds its value fairly well over time compared to some competing battery storage options like Tesla Powerwall. According to this article on Forbes, Generac estimates the Power Cell battery will retain around 70-80% of its value after 10 years. This gives it a slightly better resale value and lower depreciation rate than Powerwall batteries, which may retain 60-70% after a decade according to Tesla.
Some key factors that support the Power Cell’s resale value include Generac’s strong brand reputation, the system’s long 10 year warranty, and its modularity that allows adding or removing battery capacity as needed. As long as homeowners maintain the system properly, it should hold value well if they choose to sell their home with the Power Cell installed down the road.
Cost Recoup
One of the key considerations for a Generac Power Cell system is how long it takes to recoup the upfront investment through electricity bill savings. According to Generac, the average payback period is 6-10 years for a Power Cell system [1]. However, this can vary significantly based on your specific energy usage, electricity rates, and any financial incentives.
Those with high energy usage, high electricity rates, or generous incentive programs may see a payback period closer to 6 years. For example, some California homeowners with high time-of-use rates can achieve payback in under 5 years [2]. On the other hand, low energy users in regions with cheap electricity may only recoup costs after 8-10 years.
When analyzing payback period, it’s important to consider total lifetime costs, not just upfront costs. Over the 10+ year lifespan of a Power Cell, the electricity savings can significantly outweigh the initial purchase and installation costs. While the payback period is longer than some cheaper batteries, the Power Cell delivers excellent performance and reliability over its operating life.
Cost Considerations
When calculating total cost for a Generac power cell, there are a few key factors to consider:
Home Energy Usage – The size of power cell you need directly impacts cost. Analyze your average home energy consumption to right-size the system. Oversizing can add unnecessary expense.
Location – Installation costs vary by region, with labor rates being higher in some areas. Shipping costs can also fluctuate based on location.
Complexity – Simple, straightforward installations are cheaper than those requiring electrical upgrades or custom considerations. factor in any complications.
Incentives – Federal, state, utility and local incentives can offset purchase and installation costs. Research available rebates and tax credits.
Financing – Options like loans and leasing spread out upfront costs over time but add interest charges. Evaluate financing terms and long term costs.
Looking at all these key factors will help you accurately estimate your total Generac power cell costs. Careful analysis is important for budgeting this major home upgrade.
Conclusion
In summary, the costs related to Generac’s Power Cell solar battery system include both initial and ongoing expenses. The upfront purchase price can range from $9,999 to $15,999 depending on the size and configuration. Professional installation usually adds between $2,500 to $4,000. Operating costs such as electricity, maintenance and monitoring are relatively minimal.
The Power Cell battery will likely need to be replaced every 10-15 years, at a cost of around $5,000 to $8,000. There are tax credits and incentives available in some areas that can offset both the initial purchase price and future battery replacements by up to 26%.
Over a 20-year lifespan, a Generac Power Cell system would likely cost a homeowner between $20,000 and $30,000 depending on system size and configuration, financing options, and available incentives. The system provides independence from the grid and protection against power outages that could recoup much of this investment over time.
In conclusion, Generac’s Power Cell offers homeowners looking to install solar + storage an efficient and innovative all-in-one solution. While not the cheapest option, it provides reliable backup power and maximizes solar self-consumption at a reasonable cost over the long term.
