Solar vs. Generator: Real Cost Comparison and Long-Term Savings Blog

Are you skeptical about investing in a solar system due to the high initial cost? You’re not alone. Many homeowners and businesses hesitate to make the switch, questioning whether the savings really outweigh the investment. Couple this with unreliable electricity supply, and the dilemma becomes even more pressing.

The Real Cost of Generator Operations vs. Solar System Investment

Running a generator seems easier on the pocket and a quick fix to power outages, but have you calculated the long-term costs? Generators guzzle fuel, demand regular maintenance, and their operational costs can skyrocket. Here’s a breakdown:

Fuel Costs: Generators consume a significant amount of fuel. You could be spending thousands each month on fuel alone.
Maintenance: Regular servicing is essential. Oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional part replacements add to the costs.
Lifespan: Generators have a finite lifespan. Replacing a generator every few years is another hefty expense.

Upsides of Generators

Immediate Power Supply: Fuel generators provide immediate and reliable power during outages, crucial for essential appliances and systems.
High Power Output: Larger models can deliver substantial power output, sufficient to run multiple high-energy appliances simultaneously.

Solar Systems: Pros and Cons

Initial Investment: Installing a solar system involves a significant upfront cost.
Operational Costs: Minimal operational costs. Sunlight is free, and maintenance is low compared to generators.
Long-term Savings: Savings on electricity bills can surpass the initial investment over the years.
Quiet Operations: Solar systems are quiet, reducing stress.
Smooth Transitions: Most solar systems act like a UPS during power outages, protecting your equipment.

Addressing Solar System Drawbacks

High Investment: This can be managed with a payment plan.
Capacity Concerns: New technologies make solar systems as powerful as generators.
Solar Unavailability: On cloudy days, stored energy from batteries can be used. Oversizing your solar array can also help.

Financing Your Solar Investment

Financing options can spread the cost over a period, making it manageable. Though these options carry some interest, the long-term savings on your energy bills will pay for itself. Once paid off, the energy you produce and use is free.

Additional Benefits of Solar Systems

Less Noise: Solar panels operate silently, avoiding noisy interruptions during power outages.
Instant Transition: Solar systems provide seamless transition during outages, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Savings During Grid Availability: Your solar system generates power even when the grid is up, reducing your electricity bill.
Environmental Impact: Solar energy is clean and renewable, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.

Make the Smart Choice: Invest in Solar Today

Considering the long-term savings and numerous benefits, investing in a solar system is a smart financial decision. Why continue to spend on fuel and maintenance for a generator when you can invest in a solution that pays for itself over time?

Ready to Make the Switch?

Explore our range of solar systems designed to meet your needs and budget. Our experts are ready to help you navigate financing options and ensure a smooth transition to solar energy. Don’t wait—start saving money and enjoy reliable, clean energy today.

Contact us now for a free consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more economical future with solar power!

Make the switch now!

Get in contact with us by sending us a message on whatsApp

Can inverters carry Air Conditioner

Yes, inverter systems can power air conditioners, but there are a few important considerations. Air conditioners require a significant amount of power, so your inverter must be robust enough to consistently handle this load. If your air conditioner is not an "inverter AC," it will have a high startup current, which requires an inverter system with a capacity up to three times that of the AC. Additionally, using lithium batteries with your AC is recommended for better performance and longevity.
How long does installation take?

The delivery and installation timeline varies depending on the system size chosen. However, please note that our smallest system packages require a minimum of two days.
What’s the warranty of the components?

This differs from one component to another and the brand. For example: A minimum of two years warranty is provided on the inverter component, 5 years on lithium-ion batteries, and 10-15 years on solar panels.
Can I pay for my solar system in instalments (monthly)?

Yes, you can!! Our monthly payment plan at Crimson-Power lets you get solar power without a big upfront cost. You pay a small amount first (20-30% of the system price), then spread the rest over 3 to 12 months. We work with finance partners who might need some info about your finances and will charge an interest for the service. It's an easy way to go green and start to save money on energy expenses and protect against future inflation on your electricity costs."
What is the smallest solar package you offer

At Crimson-Power, we offer a range of solar packages to suit various needs and budgets. Our entry solar package comes with 1.4 - 2kWp of solar panels, perfect for homeowners who want to start harnessing the power of the sun and reduce their energy bills. This package includes high-quality solar panels, an inverter, batteries and professional installation by our experienced team.
Do your solar systems come with Lithium batteries?

Yes, at Crimson-Power, we offer lithium ion batteries with our solar systems. These batteries are known for their high energy density, longer lifespan, and superior performance . With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, our systems are designed to maximize the use of renewable energy and provide reliable power storage. However we also offer solar systems with the traditional lead acid batteries both flooded and sealed maintenance free batteries.
What’s the interest rate of the payment plan?

Approximately, our finance partners charge a 5% interest rate, calculated on a monthly reducing balance. This means that each month, interest is calculated based on the remaining amount you owe, helping you save money as you pay off your balance.
What do you do with the old batteries, do you revive them?

NO!! We do not revive them. When we take them off you in the trade off deal, we sell them as scrap to recycling facilities who break them down for their lead and plastic components which are used to create new product or exported.
How can I be sure my new batteries will last?

Crimson Power has many years of experience and thus has built up a very good understanding of the batteries brands that work in Nigeria . For SMF batteries, we currently only supply one brand because it works. This gives our customers the best value for their money. We are committed to providing the best value for our customers, after all the batteries are the most expensive component in inverter and solar systems.
Can I change from SMF or tubular to Lithium

Yes you can! But your inverter must be compatible. It must be pointed out is that, in order for Lithium batteries to work optimally, they require a good battery management system (BMS) device that can possibly communicate with the inverters to control the charging and discharging of the batteries. If the inverter can't communicate with the BMS, then it should at least have the ability to program the discharge and charge cut off values.
Can I change from SMF to Tubular and vice-versa?

Yes! You can do this as they are both lead acid technology batteries. Something to note with tubular batteries (wetcell) is that they have two conditions. 1. You need to maintain them regularly (we recommend quarterly) 2. Must be installed in a vented environment because they release their gases during charging much more than SMF.
How can I get a discount?

If your old batteries are still available, you have the opportunity to trade them in for a discount. Your older batteries have a salvage value which can be applied to the cost of the new batteries as a discount.
Four batteries - Smart Controller

The Package includes: 9 Solar Panels - 3000W - 4000W One Smart (bluetooth)MPPT Charge controller All kit accessories Earthing for Solar system Aluminium Mounting Frame Installation
Two batteries - Smart (with APP)

The Package includes 6 Solar Panels - 1200W - 1600W One Smart (bluetooth)MPPT Charge controller Smart Battery Monitor to conveniently read battery parameters, like state of charge, time to go etc. All kit accessories Earthing for Solar system Aluminium Mounting Frame Installation
Two batteries - Basic

The Package includes 6 Solar Panels - 1200W- 1600W One basic MPPT Charge controller All kit accessories Earthing for Solar system Aluminium Mounting Frame Installation
Four batteries - Basic

The Package includes: 9 Solar Panels - 3000W - 4000W One basic MPPT Charge controller All kit accessories Earthing for Solar system Aluminium Mounting Frame Installation
Four batteries - Basic (24V inverter system)

The Package includes: - Please note: This option is desgined for inverter systems with 24v and 4 batteries 9 Solar Panels - 3000W - 4000W One Basic 85A MPPT Charge controller All kit accessories Earthing for Solar system Aluminium Mounting Frame Installation
Have more than 4 batteries?

If you have more than four batteries we might need to carry out a site inspection to evaluate your exact need. CLICK HERE TO CONTACT US Thank you.

Oke O.

"Very good service, my new batteries from Crimson electric are obviously better than the last. Planned to change my inverter cos I thought my inverter had an issue. Julian advised to try the new batteries first and see. Now I know my old inverter is still in perfect condition."

Testimonials

Mr Aisida

"I always admire watching people who are very proffesional with their work.
It gives me hope for Nigeria
I am sure that, like all of us us have your faults. but so far I am quite delighted.

Mrs Obika

“I have been with Crimson Power for years and honestly I am glad I met them. They make the power challenges for us just the right amount of easy.”