9.1kW Solar & Franklin Battery Backup Installation | Vinton, VA

Written by
Stephen Vernon
Published on
March 23, 2026

Service Available: Solar Panel & Battery Installation Branch: Roanoke, VA

Project Case Study: Energy Independence & Grid Security

For this homeowner in Vinton, VA, the goal was twofold: drastically reduce their monthly electric bill and protect their home from unexpected power outages. A standard solar system shuts down when the grid goes down, but this customer wanted true energy independence.

Our Roanoke solar team designed a premium grid-interactive photovoltaic system with dedicated battery storage. We engineered a 9.135 kW array tailored to the home's asphalt shingle gable roof, estimated to produce over 11,100 kWh in its first year of operation. To make this advanced solar-plus-storage system a reality, we helped the homeowner secure a competitive solar loan, allowing them to trade their utility bill for a predictable monthly investment in their own home.‍

Key Upgrades & Materials

We combined high-output solar generation with industry-leading energy storage for the ultimate home power solution.‍The specifications for this custom system included:

  • High-Efficiency Solar Panels: We installed an array of 21 Hyundai HiS-T435NF (BK) 435W Solar Modules. These all-black panels provide excellent power density, maximizing the energy harvested from the home's roof space.
  • Advanced Microinverters: Each panel was paired with an Enphase IQ8M Microinverter. This converts the DC power to AC power right at the roof level, ensuring that if one panel is shaded, the rest of the 21-panel system continues to operate at peak efficiency.
  • Seamless Battery Backup: We integrated 1 Franklin aPower battery into the system. When the sun goes down or the utility grid fails, this robust battery automatically kicks in to keep the home's essential appliances running without interruption.
  • Engineered for Safety: We never guess on structural integrity. Before installation, our engineers verified that the home's 2x4 rafters could safely support the equipment dead loads while withstanding 115 MPH ultimate wind speeds.

Why Add Battery Storage?

Many homeowners don't realize that standard solar panels must shut off during a blackout to prevent back-feeding electricity into the grid and injuring utility workers. By adding a Franklin aPower battery to your system, you essentially create your own microgrid. You store the excess power your panels generate during the day and use it at night—or rely on it to keep your lights, fridge, and internet on when the neighborhood goes dark.‍

Want to protect your home from rising rates and power outages?

You don't need thousands in cash upfront to secure your energy future. Ask us about our flexible loan options for solar and battery systems.

Get a Free Solar & Storage Estimate

Man wearing safety harness and gloves handling a yellow rope on a roof with green trees in the background.

Ready to Take the Next Step With Solar?

Contact us today for a honest assessment of your solar potential. Let us show you how our approach to solar is different, and why hundreds of homeowners have trusted us to power their future.