Do solar panels work in a power cut?

Power cuts and solar panels

With energy costs rising and the price of solar panels dropping, it’s no surprise that more households are turning to solar energy. Not only can they reduce their carbon footprint, but they can also make significant savings on their bills. However, if you’re opting for a non-hybrid system – i.e. one where you come completely off-grid and rely solely on solar power – you may be wondering whether you’ll still be able to get electricity during a power cut. Here, we answer some key questions about solar panels and power outages.

Will my solar panels work in a power cut?

The great news is that with the right setup from your solar PV experts, your system can continue to operate during a power cut. Many solar panel systems will automatically switch off when a power outage occurs, but you can avoid this by having a relay fitted. This enables your system to send energy from your solar battery to your home even when the power is out.

Why won’t my panels automatically work in a power cut?

The reason most systems aren’t set up to work during a power cut is safety. While functioning, your panels send excess energy back to the National Grid. If the power then fails, engineers working on the lines could get electrocuted. As such, solar inverters are designed to switch off when they detect a power outage.

How long can my panels power my home in a power cut?

If you live in an area where power cuts are frequent or prolonged, it may be useful to have a relay installed so that you can continue to have electricity. With a battery, your solar panels can provide power for several hours – and even a day or two – during an outage.

The average solar battery can store up to 8kWh, and a typical household uses around 7.4kWh per day. If your battery is full when the power cut occurs, you’ll have enough energy for at least a day. Being mindful of your usage means you can extend this time.

Will my solar panel charge my battery during a power cut?

Your solar panel system can be set up to continue charging your battery during an outage. Ask your installer to use a battery inverter with a higher capacity than the solar inverter, so that the battery doesn’t become overloaded. Otherwise, the battery could discharge all its stored energy when the power cut hits.

If you live in the South East, the team at South East Solar & Electrical is on hand to help with all your renewable energy needs. Our solar panel installers in Kent are experienced and accredited, and will ensure you get the right setup for your home and energy requirements. We also carry out solar panel maintenance to ensure your system works efficiently throughout its lifetime. Contact us today to book a consultation.