Do Solar Panels Work During a Power Outage? 

As more homeowners on the Central Coast embrace solar energy, a common concern arises: what happens to solar panels during a power outage? While many homeowners and businesses enjoy the benefits of solar power, understanding how these systems function in emergencies is essential. 

The reality is that most grid-tied solar systems will not operate on their own when the grid goes out. However, there are solutions available to keep your lights on with solar batteries. At Premo Solar, we have over 13 years of experience in designing and installing customized solar solutions throughout Monterey Bay and offer a wide selection of battery storage options.

Why Solar Panels Shut Down During Grid Outages

Most residential and commercial solar energy systems are connected to the central utility grid. This allows you to send excess energy to the grid during peak sunlight hours and take power from it at night or on cloudy days. However, during a power outage, grid-tied systems automatically shut down as a safety measure for utility workers. 

How to Keep the Lights On with Solar Energy

There are two main ways to ensure your power stays on in the event of a grid outage: hybrid solar and off-grid solar. Our team can help determine which option is best for your energy needs during an on-site consultation. We’ll also go over available solar incentives, like the solar tax credit, which can offer significant savings on panels, inverters, batteries, and more. 

Hybrid Solar 

Adding battery backup to your grid-tied energy system gives you the best of both worlds. Referred to as hybrid or solar plus battery storage, this method allows you to utilize grid power when needed while also allowing for independent operation during an outage. 

Solar batteries store excess energy produced by your solar panels during the day, allowing you to use that stored power when the grid is down, at night, or on cloudy days. With a properly sized battery system, you can keep essential appliances running or even power your whole home during an outage, providing peace of mind and energy security. 

Off-Grid Solar

Off-grid solar also utilizes battery storage, however, these systems operate independent of the central utility grid. While more complex and typically more expensive than grid-tied systems, off-grid setups ensure you have power regardless of grid conditions.

Custom Solar Solutions from Premo Solar

Our expertise extends beyond basic solar installations—we specialize in providing tailored start-to-finish solar solutions. We’ll start by gaining a thorough understanding of your specific needs and energy goals to design a sleek, customized solar array that meets or exceeds them. 

Our high-performance solar energy systems often feature industry-leading products that can provide further peace of mind that your power stays on during an outage, such as:

• Enphase microinverters for optimal energy production
• SPAN smart electrical panels for enhanced energy management
• FranklinWH solar batteries for reliable backup power

Premo Solar can help future-proof your home to handle outages, increased demand, and more. 

Find a custom solar solution for your home or business with Premo Solar. Call 831-901-3352 or contact us online to get started.