Will My Solar Still Work During a Power Outage?
Solar power is an excellent way to reduce energy bills and minimize reliance on the grid, but one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Will my solar system work during a power outage? The short answer is no—unless you have battery storage or a special inverter. Here’s why and what you can do to keep your power running during blackouts.
Why Solar Panels Stop Working in a Blackout
Most grid-connected solar systems are designed with safety in mind. When the power goes out, your solar system automatically shuts down to prevent electricity from feeding back into the grid. This is called anti-islanding protection, and it ensures that your system doesn’t pose a risk to utility workers repairing power lines.
So even though your panels are generating power from the sun, the standard inverter in most homes will switch off, stopping the flow of electricity.
How to Keep Your Solar Working During an Outage
If you want your solar system to continue supplying power during a blackout, you’ll need one of the following:
1. A Solar Battery System
A solar battery, such as the Tesla Powerwall, Sonnen, or LG Chem, stores excess energy generated by your solar panels. During a power outage, the battery automatically kicks in, supplying electricity to your home.
Benefits of a solar battery:
- Provides backup power for essential appliances
- Reduces reliance on the grid
- Stores excess energy for nighttime use
However, a battery system can be a significant investment, and the capacity of the battery will determine how long you can run your home during an outage.
2. A Hybrid or Off-Grid Inverter
A hybrid inverter is designed to work with batteries and can keep certain circuits running even when the grid is down. Some hybrid inverters allow direct solar-to-home energy use during the day without needing a battery.
An off-grid solar system is completely independent of the grid and functions during a blackout, but it requires a much larger battery storage system to handle nighttime power needs.
3. A Backup Generator
If installing a battery isn’t feasible, a traditional backup generator can keep your home powered during an outage. While not as seamless as a solar battery, generators can provide electricity for critical appliances and are a more affordable backup option.
What Can You Power During a Blackout?
If you have a solar battery, you can choose which circuits to back up. Most homeowners prioritize essential appliances like:
- ✔️ Lights
- ✔️ Refrigerators & freezers
- ✔️ Internet & communication devices
- ✔️ Medical equipment
- ✔️ Security systems
High-energy appliances like air conditioning, ovens, and electric water heaters may require a large battery or multiple batteries to operate.
Should You Invest in a Solar Battery?
Adding battery storage to your solar system can provide peace of mind during outages, but it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits:
✅ Pros:
- Energy independence
- Protection during blackouts
- Maximises self-consumption of solar energy
❌ Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Limited backup duration depending on battery size
- Requires maintenance and monitoring
Final Thoughts
If your home has a standard grid-connected solar system, it won’t work during a power outage unless you have a battery, hybrid inverter, or backup generator. Investing in a battery system can provide energy security, but it’s important to assess your energy needs and budget before making a decision.
Looking for expert advice on solar and battery solutions? Contact us today to explore your options and keep your home powered when it matters most!