Why the lights go out
Regular grid-tied solar sends power into the grid. When the grid fails, the inverter must shut off so it can't back-feed lines that workers are repairing. So without batteries, your panels sit idle in a blackout, even on a sunny day.
What keeps your power on
| You need | Why |
|---|---|
| Batteries | To store power for night and to run the house when the grid is down |
| A hybrid (or off-grid) inverter | To safely disconnect from the grid and run your home on its own |
| An electrician | Tying into your home's breaker panel usually needs a licensed pro and a permit |
Next
The home backup guide sizes the batteries and inverter for how long your outages last. For essentials only, a power station is the quick fix.
Questions people ask
Why does my solar turn off in a blackout?
Standard grid-tie inverters are required to shut down when the grid does, to protect utility workers. Without batteries and an islanding inverter, the panels can't power your house alone.
Can I add batteries to my existing solar?
Often, yes, with a hybrid inverter or a battery system designed to work alongside your current setup. Have a licensed electrician check your system first.
Get the exact setup
A few taps and you'll know exactly what to buy for your situation.