TL:DR No, your solar system will not keep your lights on during a power outage—unless you have battery storage or a backup power source. Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut down when the grid goes down to protect utility workers and prevent power from feeding back into the lines. However, with a solar battery and the right inverter, your home can disconnect from the grid and continue running essential appliances, creating your own self-sustaining power system even when the utility power is out.
To read additional information that also answers the questions:
What happens if you have solar panels installed and the power goes out?
Do solar panels continue to work during blackouts, or are there additional steps to consider?
Overview
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Photovoltaic (PV) cells, made primarily of silicon, absorb sunlight and release electrons, generating a direct current (DC). An inverter then converts this DC into alternating current (AC), which powers homes and businesses.
The energy harvested depends on sunlight availability, but a well-designed system maximizes efficiency, even on cloudy days. Freedom Solar Power installs cutting-edge solar technology that captures and converts solar energy reliably, ensuring consistent electricity production. But will these panels keep working if the grid goes down? That depends on the system setup. Let’s break it down.
Grid-Tied Solar Systems
The most common type of solar installation is a grid-tied system. In this setup, solar panels are connected to the local electrical grid.
During regular operation, the solar panels generate electricity used directly in the building or sent back to the grid if the system produces more energy than is consumed. In return, the homeowner often receives credits or compensation for the excess energy fed back into the grid through net metering programs.
However, when a power outage occurs, grid-tied solar systems are designed to shut down automatically for safety reasons. This function, called anti-islanding protection, prevents accidental electric shocks to workers fixing the grid.
Even if the sun is shining, these systems stop producing usable electricity until the grid is restored. Homes with grid-tied solar alone cannot use their solar panels to power appliances unless they integrate a backup solution like a battery storage system or a generator.
Freedom Solar Power designs and installs grid-tied systems for customers needing higher energy output or flexibility in panel placement.
Hybrid Solar Systems
To address the issue of power outages, some homeowners opt for hybrid solar systems.
Hybrid solar installations combine grid connectivity with battery storage. Unlike standard grid-tied systems, these setups store excess energy and provide backup power during outages. Property owners benefit from energy independence while maximizing financial returns through net metering.
- Solar + battery storage: These systems include lithium-ion batteries like the Tesla Powerwall, which charge during sunlight hours and are discharged when needed.
- Grid-tied with backup: They seamlessly switch between stored energy and grid electricity during fluctuating demand.
- Off-grid capable: Some hybrid systems allow full off-grid operation, reducing utility dependence.
Hybrid solar systems offer the advantage of energy independence, allowing homeowners access to electricity even when the grid is down. This can be particularly beneficial in regions prone to frequent power outages due to storms, natural disasters, or maintenance issues.
Freedom Solar Power specializes in hybrid solar systems for homeowners looking for resilience and long-term cost savings.
Off-Grid Solar Systems
Off-grid solar installations function independently from utility connections. These systems require battery storage, charge controllers, and backup generators to ensure continuous electricity availability. Users in remote areas rely on off-grid setups for sustainable and independent energy production.
- Standalone solar arrays: Panels generate electricity exclusively for on-site consumption.
- Large battery banks: These systems store energy for use during cloudy days and nighttime.
- Integrated backup generators: Diesel or propane generators supplement power when solar production is insufficient.
Freedom Solar Power helps homeowners design off-grid solar systems suited for full energy independence, ensuring uninterrupted power supply regardless of grid conditions.
Backup Power Considerations and Benefits
Solar panels alone do not provide electricity during a power outage unless connected to a battery backup system. Grid-tied systems shut down when the grid goes down, but solar batteries store excess energy for use when needed. This ensures continuous power even when the grid is offline.
When contemplating the best solution for power outages with your solar installation, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
Cost
While solar batteries offer power during outages, they come with additional costs beyond the initial solar installation. Batteries can increase the overall investment but provide security and convenience in return.
Energy Needs
Evaluate your energy needs during outages. If you require continuous power for medical equipment, security systems, or other critical functions, a hybrid system might be worth considering.
Environmental Impact
Solar panels and energy storage solutions contribute to a cleaner environment by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.
Benefits of Solar Batteries When the Power Goes Out
How Backup Batteries Work During Outages
Battery backup systems store electricity generated by solar panels during daylight hours. When an outage occurs, the system automatically switches to battery power, supplying energy to essential appliances and circuits. The switch happens within milliseconds, preventing disruptions.
- Energy Storage: Batteries capture and hold excess solar energy for later use.
- Automatic Activation: The system shifts to stored energy without manual intervention when grid power fails.
- Continuous Power Supply: Power remains available for hours or even days, depending on battery capacity.
Types of Batteries Used for Solar Backup
Lithium-ion batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall and LG Chem RESU, dominate the market due to their high efficiency and long cycle life. Although more affordable, lead-acid batteries require maintenance and a shorter lifespan.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Higher energy density, deep discharge capability, and longer lifespan.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: Lower cost but bulkier, less efficient, and shorter operational life.
Freedom Solar Power’s Battery Solutions
Freedom Solar Power offers professionally designed solar-plus-storage solutions that provide reliable backup during outages. Homeowners gain energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid by integrating industry-leading battery technology with their custom solar installations.
Power outages can disrupt daily life, causing inconvenience and even posing risks in certain situations. A backup plan for such occurrences is essential, and solar batteries can play a crucial role in providing reliable power during blackouts.
Additional benefits of solar energy solar solutions:
Energy Independence
Solar batteries enable you to become less reliant on the grid during outages. This energy independence can be particularly valuable in areas prone to frequent power interruptions, especially during extreme weather events or natural disasters.
Peak Demand Management
Solar batteries can also help manage peak energy demand periods. When electricity demand is high, such as evenings or extremely hot days, you can use the stored energy instead of drawing power from the grid, reducing strain on the local utility infrastructure.
Lower Energy Bills
Using stored solar energy during peak demand times can reduce your overall electricity consumption from the grid. This can result in lower energy bills and greater control over energy costs.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Using stored solar energy instead of relying solely on the grid during blackouts reduces your reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a lower carbon footprint and a more sustainable energy consumption pattern.
How Solar Inverters Affect System Functionality During Outages
The Role of Solar Inverters in Standard Operation
A solar inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity solar panels generate into alternating current (AC), which powers household appliances. Standard grid-tied solar inverters synchronize this conversion process with the utility grid, ensuring stable energy output and efficient distribution. These inverters adjust voltage and frequency to match grid requirements, allowing excess electricity to flow back to the grid through net metering.
Most residential solar systems use string inverters or microinverters. String inverters centralize DC-to-AC conversion, while microinverters operate individually on each panel, improving efficiency in shaded environments. Both types require an active connection to the grid for optimum performance.
Changes in Functionality When the Grid Goes Down
Standard grid-tied inverters automatically shut down during a power outage due to safety requirements set by the National Electrical Code (NEC). This prevents electricity from feeding into power lines while utility workers repair the grid. Without additional equipment, a solar system will stop supplying power to the home.
However, hybrid inverters and specialized equipment enable solar energy use even during blackouts. These systems integrate with battery storage, allowing stored energy to power essential loads. Freedom Solar Power offers solar installations with hybrid inverters that provide continued electricity during outages by isolating the system from the grid.
- Grid-Tied Inverters: Shut down when the grid fails, preventing back-feeding and potential hazards.
- Hybrid Inverters: Switch to off-grid mode when paired with battery storage, maintaining power supply.
- Smart Inverters: Provide advanced control and communication features, improving resilience during outages.
Choosing the right inverter determines whether a solar system remains operational during power failures. Freedom Solar Power offers solutions for homeowners seeking blackout protection, integrating battery storage and hybrid inverters for an uninterrupted energy supply.
Understanding Solar Storage Options
Solar storage transforms homeowners’ reliance on renewable energy, especially during power outages. Without storage, grid-tied solar systems shut down when outages occur. With the proper storage solution, solar panels supply power when the grid fails. Freedom Solar Power provides storage options that enhance energy independence and outage resilience.
Lithium-Ion Battery Storage
Lithium-ion batteries dominate the residential solar market due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and efficient charge-discharge cycles. The Tesla Powerwall 3, offered by Freedom Solar Power, integrates seamlessly with solar systems, delivering consistent backup power during grid outages. These batteries store excess solar energy generated during the day and discharge it at night or during outages.
- Efficiency: Lithium-ion batteries have a round-trip efficiency of 85-95%, minimizing energy loss.
- Longevity: Most units last 10-15 years with proper management.
- Scalability: Modular systems allow homeowners to expand their storage capacity as needed.
Lead-Acid Battery Storage
Lead-acid batteries are an older technology for solar storage and have been largely surpassed by lithium-ion alternatives in efficiency and longevity. They are less common in modern residential installations.
- Lower Cost: Lead-acid battery systems typically cost less upfront compared to lithium-ion.
- Lower Efficiency: Round-trip efficiency ranges from 70-85%, leading to more energy loss.
- Shorter Lifespan: Lithium-ion batteries generally have a shorter operational life span than lithium-ion batteries.
Flow Battery Storage
Flow batteries represent an emerging alternative in solar energy storage. They use liquid electrolytes to store energy, providing long cycle life and deep discharge capability. While still less common in residential settings due to cost and size, they offer potential advantages for long-duration storage.
- Extended Lifespan: Flow batteries experience minimal degradation, making them ideal for long-term applications.
- Deep Discharge Capability: Can be fully discharged without significantly impacting battery life.
- Lower Energy Density: Requires larger space for storage, limiting residential adoption.
Stay Powered When the Grid Goes Down
Integrating battery storage with your solar system ensures uninterrupted power during outages. Freedom Solar Power offers industry-leading solutions, including the Tesla Powerwall and Maxeon SunVault, to keep your home running when the grid fails. The Tesla Powerwall provides intelligent energy management, EV charging capabilities, and short-term backup power, while the Maxeon SunVault seamlessly integrates with Maxeon solar systems for reliable energy storage.
Choosing the right backup solution depends on your energy needs, budget, and long-term goals. Our team of experts is here to help you design a solar-plus-storage system that delivers true energy independence.
Don’t wait for the next blackout—take control of your power today. Contact Freedom Solar Power for a free consultation and find the best backup solution for your home.
Featured image via Unsplash