When the grid goes down, it is natural to wonder if your solar panels will still produce power. The answer to this question depends on whether or not you have a battery backup system installed.
Most residential solar panel systems are connected to the grid and rely on it for power when the panels are not producing enough energy, such as at night or on cloudy days. In the event of a grid outage, National Electric Code (NEC) Rapid Shutdown requirements mandate that solar panels must shut off for the safety of utility workers. Without rapid shutdown, power could backfeed onto power lines, putting utility workers at risk of injury or death.
However, if you have a battery backup system installed, you can effectively "island" your home from the grid during outages and continue to have power. In this scenario, not only will your home have power, but your solar panels will also be able to continue producing energy, allowing you to continue to generate your own power even when the grid is down.
Battery backup systems work by storing excess energy from your solar panels in a battery. This stored energy can then be used to power your home during a grid outage. Having a battery backup system installed can give you peace of mind, knowing that you will still have access to power even when the grid is down.
When choosing a battery backup system, it is important to consider factors such as the size of your solar panel system, the amount of energy you use, and how long you want to be able to run your home on battery power during a grid outage. Professional solar installation companies like Progreen Solar can help you choose the right battery backup system for your needs and ensure that it is installed correctly.
In conclusion, when the grid goes down, most solar panels will not produce power due to NEC Rapid Shutdown requirements. However, with a battery backup system, you can effectively island yourself from the grid during outages and continue to have power. If you are interested in having a battery backup system installed, reach out to Progreen Solar to discuss your options and find the right solution for your needs.