We are still investigating whether battery storage has the potential to save us significant amounts of money, perhaps by smoothing out our usage, thus reducing or eliminating "demand charges." (These are charges added to our bill based on our peak demand – the maximum amount of power we use at any one time during a billing period.)

We're also looking into the possibility of getting financial support through the lodging tax.

Possible advantages of battery storage:

• Weddings, classes and events might be able to continue during a power outage, increasing the quality of our service and perhaps preventing loss of rental income.
• Refrigeration should contnue to function, preventing losses due to food spoilage.
• The electric pump for the septic system would continue to function.
• It might be possible to obtain grants for battery-supported functions, such as feeding or sheltering islanders during an emergency.

Unlike gas or propane generators, solar battery backup is virtually maintenance-free, with no moving parts or combustible fuel.