The forthcoming 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is anticipated to have been the first electric truck—and the first electric car for the U.S. market—delivered with the capacity to backup the electrical grid in the event of a power loss.
How? The Lightning will be one of the first few models with bidirectional charging capabilities, making it possible for it to act as a mobile backup power broker in the near future.
This will give owners more energy independence, allow them to save money by utilising home solar to shift loads off the power system during peak usage hours, and perhaps even lessen the potential cause of power outages in the first place.
Not only that, but Ford is backing it right away with the necessary hardware. Ford chose Sunrun as its preferred installer for residential solar energy and for the Automatic Backup Power technology that enables this game-changing capability set, as it stated last May with the unveiling of the Lightning.
The setup begins with the 80-amp Ford Charge Station Pro, which enables a variety of smart-charging functionality. However, the proper Home Integration System, which includes a power inverter, a dark-start battery, and a generated energy to flow to the house independently of a grid connection—is required to make the F-150 a reliable element for home backup energy.
Ford has not provided pricing information, but it notes that customers who are interested in installing a Charge Station Pro along with solar power may qualify for discounted installation costs and a zero-down financing option. Commercial users would have access to the same equipment and feature set, it has emphasised.
Ford claims that Lightning has 131 kWh of energy storage and is capable of producing up to 9.6 kW of power with the extended-range battery, which are more remarkable specifications than many wall battery units.
Ford also released a visual that contrasts Pro Power Onboard and its Intelligent Backup Power technology. With 11 outlets that directly power tools and other devices, the latter is practically like a generator system. The former provides the home with complete power.
FAQ
What Are The Economic Advantages Of Solar Power?
By installing a solar electricity grid on your property, you lower your electricity costs and insulate yourself from future increases in electricity prices. Depending on your local utility costs and solar regulations, you may be able to save a certain amount of money, but installing solar is always a wise investment.
What Are The Advantages Of Solar Energy For The Environment?
Like other renewable energy, solar electricity has several advantages for the environment and human health. Going solar brings in fewer air pollutants like sulphur dioxide and particulates, which can have negative health effects, as well as fewer greenhouse gas emissions, which are a factor in climate change.
If I Have Solar Panels, Would I Still Get An Electric Bill?
You will still get a bill from your utility unless your solar energy system incorporates battery storage and you are completely off the grid. With a solar panel system that matches your energy demand, you can significantly lower your cost or perhaps eliminate the balance you owe.
Do Solar Panels Function In A Power Outage?
In the event of a blackout, your solar panel system will switch off if it is connected to the grid. This is to stop solar panels from transmitting power back to the grid and injuring emergency responders and electricity company workers. However, you can purchase some inverters that, when used with batteries, offer backup power during a power outage.