Many homeowners assume that once they install solar panels, they’ll still have electricity even if the grid goes down. But the truth is a little more complex.

So, what really happens to solar panels during a power outage? Let’s break it down, explain why most solar systems shut off, and how you can keep the lights on with the right setup.

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Do Solar Panels Work in a Power Outage?

Most solar panel systems automatically shut off during a power outage.

This happens for safety reasons. If your solar system kept sending power to the grid while utility workers were repairing lines, it could be extremely dangerous. This is called “anti-islanding protection.”

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Grid-Tied Solar Systems During a Blackout

• Standard grid-tied systems: Shut down completely during an outage.
• Net metering customers: Won’t be able to draw from solar panels without storage.
• Result: Even on a sunny day, you’ll lose power unless you have a backup solution.

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How to Keep Power During an Outage with Solar

1. Solar + Battery Storage

Pairing your solar panels with batteries (like the Tesla Powerwall) allows you to store energy and use it when the grid is down.

✅ Provides backup power
✅ Increases energy independence
❌ Adds $8,000–$15,000+ to system cost

2. Solar + Generator

Some homeowners combine solar panels with a backup generator for extended outages.

✅ Works well in areas with frequent blackouts
✅ Can be more affordable than batteries
❌ Requires fuel and maintenance

3. Hybrid Inverter Systems

Hybrid inverters allow solar panels to power your home directly during an outage, even without batteries.

✅ Continuous power in emergencies
❌ More expensive than standard inverters

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Bottom Line: Solar Panels Alone Won’t Work in an Outage

If you want electricity when the grid goes down, solar panels alone aren’t enough. You’ll need batteries, a hybrid inverter, or a backup generator.

With power outages becoming more common in 2025 due to extreme weather and grid strain, investing in a backup system may be worth it for peace of mind.

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📞 Want to know your options for solar with backup power? Call now for a free consultation with a solar expert:
1-888-217-5139

FAQ Section (with Schema Markup)

FAQs to Include in Post Content:

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

No. Most solar panels shut off during outages unless paired with batteries, hybrid inverters, or backup power systems.

Why do solar panels shut off when the power goes out?

They shut off for safety reasons, to prevent electricity from back-feeding into the grid while workers repair power lines.

How can I use solar power during an outage?

By adding battery storage, a hybrid inverter, or a backup generator, you can keep your home powered during blackouts.