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[0] SOLAR PANELS with a BATTERY SYSTEM and DC-AC INVERTER/ CHARGER [2] Utilizes renewable energy quiet No maintenance required Defrays energy cost or even let you sell electricity back to utility Federal and state incentives [3] The most expensive type Limited run time [depending on the battery tank's capacity] Requires professional installation [4] In off-grid installations it's worth to supplement the system by a diesel or a propane genset [1] 
Photovoltaic (PV) panels charge battery bank Produces electricity only on bright days Can power stand alone AC loads or can be connected to the house wiring (in which case it requires a grid-interactive type of inverter with a transfer relay)
Backup Power Systems for Homes
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