Quick Answer
Solar grid tie systems are designed to work with public utilities and will not function during a blackout, as they rely on the grid to sell excess energy produced to the utility company. However, off-grid solar systems can continue to provide power during a blackout, as they are not connected to the public grid. These systems rely on energy storage, such as batteries, to supply power when needed.
Understanding Your Grid Tie System
Grid tie systems have an inverter that converts DC power from your solar panels to AC power, which is then fed directly into the public grid. This inverter is usually designed to shut down during a blackout, as utility companies do not allow backfeeding of power into the grid. This is a safety feature to protect utility workers and prevent damage to the grid.
Off-Grid Solar Systems
Off-grid solar systems, on the other hand, use an inverter to convert DC power from the solar panels to AC power for household use. These systems often include a battery bank to store excess energy generated by the solar panels. During a blackout, the system can draw power from the battery bank to continue supplying power to the household. To take advantage of this feature, it’s essential to have a grid-forming inverter and a sufficient battery bank to store excess energy.
Preparing for a Blackout with an Off-Grid System
To prepare for a blackout with an off-grid solar system, it’s essential to ensure that your battery bank is properly sized and charged. A good rule of thumb is to size your battery bank to provide 2-3 days of backup power during a blackout. You should also consider installing a generator or other backup power source to supplement your solar system during extended blackouts.
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