Back to: How to Stay Powered During Outages
A common misconception is that homes with solar panels remain powered during blackouts. However, traditional grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during outages to prevent backfeeding electricity into the grid, which could endanger utility workers repairing power lines.
What You Need for Power During a Blackout
To use solar energy during a blackout, you’ll need a backup system that stores excess energy and supplies it to your home when the grid is down. Backup options ensure you stay operational, even when the power grid fails.
Exploring Off-Grid Solar
Backup Options for Blackout Protection
A. Solar Batteries
Solar batteries store surplus energy generated by your solar panels during the day. This stored energy can be used during a blackout to power your home.
Advantages:
- Quiet and environmentally friendly.
- Can power essential devices or your entire home, depending on battery capacity.
- Automatically switches to battery power during outages for seamless operation.
Considerations:
- Higher initial cost, though incentives may offset expenses.
- Limited runtime based on battery capacity, so prioritize essential devices.
B. Solar Generators
A solar generator combines solar panel energy with battery storage in a portable unit, ideal for powering specific devices or areas during outages.
Advantages:
- Portable and versatile, making it easy to move or deploy as needed.
- Well-suited for short-term or occasional outages.
Considerations:
- Limited capacity compared to full home solar battery systems.
- Best for targeted use, such as powering appliances or small devices.
Stay Powered, Even in the Dark
With the right backup solution, solar energy can keep your home running smoothly during blackouts. Whether you choose a solar battery for full-home coverage or a solar generator for specific needs, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for the unexpected.
