In a standard on-grid solar system, the system is designed to automatically shut down during a power cut or blackout for safety reasons. When the grid experiences a blackout, your solar system will typically stop generating electricity and disconnect from the grid. This is known as anti-islanding protection. However, there are ways to use the energy from your on-grid solar system during a blackout if you install additional equipment and have the right setup. Here are some options:
Battery Backup System: The most common and practical solution is to install a battery backup system along with your solar panels. This can be achieved by adding a solar battery storage system to your existing solar setup. During normal operation, excess solar energy is stored in the batteries. When a blackout occurs, you can draw power from these batteries to meet your electricity needs. This provides an uninterrupted power supply during outages.
Hybrid Inverter: Some modern inverters come with a built-in feature called a "hybrid inverter" that allows you to switch to backup power when the grid goes down. These inverters can manage the flow of electricity between your solar panels, the grid, and a battery system. They automatically switch to battery power when the grid is not available, providing energy during a blackout.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): While this is not a direct solution for your entire home, you can use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for critical appliances or devices. These are essentially large batteries that can provide power for a short duration. You can plug essential items like computers, lights, and medical equipment into a UPS to maintain power during brief outages.
Conclusion
It's important to consult with a qualified solar installer to determine the best solution for your specific needs and to ensure that the installation complies with local regulations and safety standards. Keep in mind that adding a battery backup system or other solutions may increase the upfront cost of your solar system, but they can provide peace of mind and energy security during blackouts.
