finder.com.au
Home
Energy

Will solar panels work during a power outage?

Solar panels don’t always offer you immunity against power outages — it all depends on your solar panel connectivity.

Shahedul Islam
Shahedul Islam

Last updated:

The way your solar panel system is set up plays a role as to whether you’d still get power during a blackout.

Grid-connect solar panel systems won’t work

A grid-connect solar panel system is basically a solar panel system that keeps your home connected to the nationwide energy grid. This is useful for reselling your surplus solar power back to the grid and for making up any shortfalls in your power supply.

During power outages, grid-connect solar systems will automatically shut down (so you won’t get power) as a safety precaution during power outages, which will stop you from sending electricity to a damaged grid or from receiving energy to make up your surplus.

Off-grid solar systems will work

The other type of solar panel system is the off-grid system. This means that your home and system are completely freestanding. You do not resell your electricity to the energy grid, nor do you take any energy in times of shortfall. This type of solar system is not affected at all by power outages. This may seem like an advantage, but it also can’t draw extra energy from the grid in times of shortfall.

Power outages are rare in Australia and so, when choosing a solar panel plan, there will probably be more important things to take into account than whether or not you will have power during an outage. However, it is still good to know what to expect, and to be prepared for the worst.

Speak to a consultant from Solar Run and get a solar quote for your home.

Solar Run is a solar retailer who can help you install solar on your rooftop.

  • Get quotes for solar panels and battery storage
  • Clean Energy Council approved retailer
  • Australia wide installers
Solar Run Lender Logos

Related Posts

How to watch Conor McGregor vs Donald Cerrone UFC 246 live

Conor McGregor returns to the Octagon to face Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone in UFC 246 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Watch Melbourne Stars vs Perth Scorchers BBL live and free

Competition pacesetters Melbourne Stars host Perth Scorchers in a BBL clash at the MCG.

Scoot flight review: Sydney to Singapore, economy return

Last-minute getaways over the holidays can cost a fortune if not flying budget, but are the savings worth it?

How to watch Australian Open tennis live and for free

There have been some changes to the way you can watch and stream Australian Open tennis in 2020, but we've got everything you need to know right here.

Taylor Swift documentary Miss Americana on Netflix: Preview and release date

It’s an exciting time to be a Swiftie.

Lower your household bills

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and Privacy & Cookies Policy.
Ask a question
Go to site