Backup power is not just a battery size question. The right plan depends on essential loads, outage priorities, solar production, and SMUD program requirements.
A home battery backup plan should start with essential loads and outage priorities, then compare those needs with SMUD program participation and solar storage design.
Last reviewed July 1, 2026. Always verify current SMUD and Tesla program language before making equipment or enrollment decisions.
| Reserve | SMUD says program participants retain battery access during outages and a reserve after events. | SMUD battery storage |
| Backup design | Whole-home backup and essential-load backup are different electrical designs. | Home review |
| Best next step | List critical loads before selecting battery size or equipment. | In-home review |
It depends on battery size, electrical design, load management, and what appliances are running during an outage.
SMUD says program participants have access to power during outages and that SMUD leaves a 20% reserve at the end of an event.
No. Backup goals and bill goals overlap, but they should be reviewed separately before equipment is selected.
