Knowing how to use solar panels during a power outage is a common concern in Australia. It is possible to use a solar system during a power outage, but it requires the proper setup.
This guide will explain how to use solar panels during a power outage, including inverters, batteries, and backup systems. We’ll cover what works, what doesn’t, and how to prepare your solar system for power outages.
Why Standard Solar Systems Don’t Work in a Blackout
The Role of Grid-Tied Inverters
Grid-tied inverters are solar systems that are directly connected to the electrical grid. Grid-tied systems are set to automatically disconnect in the event of a blackout. This feature ensures that electricians are protected as they work to fix power lines.
For instance, if a large storm with high winds blows, a downed tree may take out a power line. As the power is fixed, the line must remain off so workers can safely repair the line.
Grid-tied solar systems are programmed to automatically disconnect during blackouts. This prevents any excess electricity from a solar system from being sent to the grid and putting workers at risk. This process is known as anti-islanding and is a crucial safety feature in Australia.
Here is what you can expect from a grid-tied inverter during a blackout:
- The solar panels will immediately stop producing energy
- Your inverter will stop converting energy to electricity
- Your solar system will switch off completely
Your Solar Panels Are Still Generating—But You Can’t Access the Power
During a power outage, the solar panels may still be working. However, without a battery storage system or backup, the energy is unusable.
Options for Keeping Power During an Outage
Add a Battery Storage System
To use solar panels during a power outage, you will need a solar energy system equipped with battery storage and an appropriate inverter. This will enable you to use stored solar power during a power outage while staying isolated from the grid. A battery storage system is also convenient for cloudy or overcast days.
Adding a battery storage system can allow you to use solar panels during a power outage.
Benefits of a solar battery include:
- Use stored energy during periods of peak demand to minimise costs
- Lower your monthly energy bills
- Increase independence from the grid to protect yourself against rising rates and outages
- Use stored solar energy even on cloudy days or at night
- Maximise your usage of clean, renewable energy by minimising how much power you draw from the grid
- Take advantage of available backup power during grid outages
- Enjoy peace of mind, even amidst grid disruptions
Learn more about how to use solar panels during a power outage with solar batteries here: How Do Solar Powered Batteries Work?
Consider a Hybrid System
Hybrid inverters can continue running during blackouts. We often call hybrid systems the “perfect balance” between grid-tied and off-grid solar systems.
Hybrid solar systems consist of solar panels and a battery storage system that work like this:
- The system provides energy for home usage
- The system stores excess energy in the batteries for usage during blackouts
or on cloudy days.
- Once the home is powered and the batteries are filled, excess energy is sent
back to the grid.
Consider an Off-Grid Solar System
Off-grid solar systems run 100% independently from the conventional grid.
If blackout protection and maximum independence are your priorities, an off-grid system is worth considering. An off-grid solar system will require:
- A larger solar array
- A large battery storage system
- A battery inverter
- Backup generator
Learn more about how to use solar panels during a power outage with an off-grid system here: Off-Grid Solar in Australia – What Does It Take?
How to Prepare Your System for Blackouts
Check Compatibility with Backup Modes
Knowing how to use solar panels during a power outage is more than just connecting to a backup battery. You’ll need to make sure you have the necessary components to support backup modes. Not all inverters are suitable for supporting backup power.
Your commercial or residential solar system will need to be fitted with blackout protection that disconnects from the grid. Once shut off from the grid, the system automatically switches over to the storage battery.
To ensure compatibility with backup modes, work with a licensed solar technician. At Aus Energy Solar, we design solar battery setups that meet energy needs and goals and ensure the inverter is compatible with a battery storage system.
Know What You Can Power
Load management optimises energy usage to ensure efficiency and reduced costs. Load management becomes especially important during a power outage, when stored energy may be limited.
Load management systems ensure that critical needs are met first. Smart inverters only draw energy from the battery when necessary or for essential equipment. For instance, a load management system may cut power to an electric oven but maintain power to the refrigerator and lights during a blackout.
Maintain Your System for Reliability
To ensure maximum reliability and efficiency, it is important to regularly maintain your solar battery storage system. We recommend monitoring the battery, completing any software updates, and having your system professionally checked annually.
This ensures issues are caught and addressed early and that your system works reliably during a blackout.
You May Also Like: Australian Solar Panel Maintenance & System Service Guide
Is It Worth Investing in Solar Backup Power?
Adding solar backup power with a battery storage system does add to the initial cost of solar panels. However, many home and business owners consider it a worthwhile investment for the peace of mind and cost savings it offers.
Solar backup power also provides long-term energy resilience and grid independence, another significant advantage.
We often have our customers ask themselves these questions to help weigh the benefits of a backup solar battery system:
- Do I live in an area that is prone to blackouts?
- Does my area experience extended blackouts?
- Do I have essential appliances or equipment that must be operable, such as medical equipment, even during a power outage?
- What are my long-term energy goals?
- How important is grid independence to my household or business? .
You May Also Like: What Are Your Solar Energy Storage Options in Sydney?
Take Control of Your Power When It Matters Most
Yes, you can use solar panels during a power outage, but it requires the right setup. A properly designed solar battery system can allow you to use solar panels during a power outage.
Solar batteries can help you enjoy blackout protection, along with reducing your energy bills and maximising your independence from the grid.
Ready to upgrade your residential or commercial solar system for backup power? Explore the benefits of solar battery storage and maximise your solar investment. Contact Aus Energy Solar today for expert advice on the best battery solution for your home or business.
