Frequently Asked Questions
RaVolt is a new way to power your home, and we understand that might mean you have more than a few questions. Please see the answers below to some of our more commonly asked questions.
General questions about RaVolt Whole-Home Power System
What is RaVolt?
Watch this short video to see what RaVolt is and how it works. Check out our enclosure specs here.
Why RaVolt
RaVolt is a triple-redundant, whole (or partial) home solar power system that allows your home to be fully grid-independent or partially grid-tied, so you will never be without power. The solar, batteries and backup power allow you to maintain your current lifestyle with the capability of being fully off the grid. Learn more about the creation of RaVolt here.
Is this a backup system?
No, RaVolt is an always-on, whole house power plant. Unlike typical rooftop solar panels, RaVolt gives you total, true independence from the utility power grid. We cover your power needs with triple redundant power sources, whether or not you have a utility connection.
Can a microgrid really power my whole house with all of my appliances?
Yes. As we design your system, we will scale the RaVolt Home Microgrid to handle your home’s needs. More efficient homes may use a smaller system, while things like pools, EV chargers, and very large heating and cooling units can increase the size of your setup. Our team has installed hundreds of thousands of solar panels, and we will help you plan a Microgrid that’s right for your needs.
Do I need a utility connection?
No, a typical RaVolt is completely grid-independent using solar, batteries, and a backup generator. If your home is easily connected to a local utility grid, their power can often be used cost-effectively as a backup. In some areas, you may be able to sell excess power back to the utility company, but monthly utility fees and restrictions would apply.
How will I know how my system is performing?
You will have access to an online monitoring application that provides you with the current status of your system. such as battery percentage, solar charge, and how much electricity or load your RaVolt unit is currently supplying to your house. The image below shows an example of something you might see through your monitoring system.
Will my RaVolt Home Off-Grid Solar Power System make power on a cloudy day?
Our ultra-efficient solar panels will continue to produce electricity even in bad weather, however, output will drop. If you have a few days of cloudy weather strung together, RaVolt’s system integrates a backup source of power such as a generator or the grid so you have access to power.
What happens at night?
Your RaVolt Powerplant provides all the power you need until morning. In rare instances when the battery is not able to fully power your home all night (long dark days or heavy electrical usage), the RaVolt system will automatically switch to your backup source.
How many hours of direct sunlight does the array need?
The more hours of sunlight your system gets, the more power it will produce. Modern solar panels are very efficient at collecting light, however, the array does need to be in a location that has at least a few hours of completely unshaded sunlight every day. We can help you assess the suitability of your site.
Can I use RaVolt for my business?
Financial questions
Will I save money with a home microgrid?
RaVolt is a whole-home power plant that provides independence, reliability, and control of your power. Although it can be comparable to your current bills, the RaVolt system is an investment for your home and future
What is the price of a typical RaVolt power plant?
Most RaVolt systems will cost about $65,000 to $80,000. This includes the RaVolt unit, solar panels and racking, generator, and installation. However, prices will vary depending on location.
If I make excess power, can I sell it back to the power company?
Yes, RaVolt supports this capability if your utility has a residential interconnection or net-metering agreement. Your RaVolt installer can help you set this up. Utility service charges and restrictions will apply.
What incentives are available?
There is a Federal Tax Credit of 30% for systems installed in 2022-2032. You may be eligible for local incentives, too. However, we encourage you to speak with your financial and tax advisor regarding all incentives.
Installation and setup
Do I need to do the installation or hire a contractor?
No, we handle the delivery and set up of every RaVolt Off-Grid Home Solar Power System using licensed and approved installation partners. Your system typically takes 1-2 days for our team to assemble on site. The process is very simple for homeowners. Unlike most solar setups or battery backups systems, RaVolt installation does not require access to your roof or garage. Most of the time, we can install RaVolt without going inside your home.
How does this system wire into my home? Will I need to add or upgrade any part of my house?
In most cases, connecting a turn-key RaVolt Off-Grid Home Solar Power System is no different from connecting to utility power. The RaVolt system will connect to the main panel just outside your home. The process is very simple and does not require major upgrades
Where on my property does the system/battery/solar array go?
A typical RaVolt system is installed about 100-200ft away from the home in a flat sunny spot that is clear of trees, brush, and debris; however, there is a lot of flexibility and customization. RaVolt and our partners will work with you to find a location that is both optimal for energy production and convenient for you.
Maintenance
What happens if the system fails? Will my power shut off?
Stability is one of the main advantages of a RaVolt Off-Grid Home Solar Power System. If something does cause a failure, the system will automatically switch to backup power and our technicians will be notified. Our patented switch also allows for you to take control and manually switch to backup power, in the unlikely event of a failure.
What maintenance is required?
Simple landscaping will help your system run most efficiently. Weeding and mowing around the ground-mounted panels is easy. Dust, pollen, and dirt can build up over time but a good rain will clear most of that build up. Snow will usually slide off quicker than it would on a roof as the panels are made of glass. They also heat up if any amount of light makes it through, quickening the process