You might shift your power system to solar energy for various reasons. It can save money and the environment and make a foundation for your sustainable lifestyle. Do solar panels work during a power outage?
Whether solar panels work during a power outage depends on the system's design. Grid-tied systems provide clean and green energy; however, there is no electricity during a power outage.
However, if you employ a solar generator to harness solar energy, you can use the stored power in case of power outages. The second option is going completely off-grid. We will discuss this further in the coming sections.
Do Solar Panels Work During A Power Outage
The answer depends on how you have configured your system. When you have installed your solar panels on your property, it generates solar energy even when there is a power outage. However, if you have a tier-tied system, you cannot use solar energy in power outages, even if you have a battery-backed system.
A tier-tied system is where you are connected to the electric grid in your area. It means you will use the power from your utility company when the solar panels are not generating, whether at night or in the rainy season. It also works the other way, i.e., when your solar panels make more electricity than your requirements, you can send it back to the grid.
How do solar panels work during a power outage? Most solar systems are designed to go off during power outages for safety concerns. The purpose is to avoid injury by the live voltage to the workers working on the grid.
What Happened During Power Outage
Power outages are becoming more frequent and are very inconvenient. Various reasons, including weather-related issues and technical problems, cause power outages. Lightning, heavy winds, snow and storms can all cause damage to the transmission lines and equipment. Also, car accidents and animals can be the causes. Recently, hurricanes and other natural disasters have become more frequent; thus, long power outages spanning over days and weeks occur.
The very obvious question after this discussion is, do solar panels work during a power outage? Let us see how solar panels work. When the sunlight hits the solar panels, it passes through inverters, and they convert it to electricity. Though grid power has nothing to do with power generation through solar panels, you can still not use solar power in a power outage. You might wonder how solar panels work during a power outage and why it shuts down.
The reason for this shutting down is the safety concerns for the utility workers. They are working on the power lines to fix the issues causing the power outage with the assumption that the lines are dead. Now, if your solar system starts passing through the same lines, it can injure the workers and also cause damage to the lines.
How to Use Solar Panels During Power Outage
When a power outage occurs, you will need an alternate power source. It can be an off-grid, grid-tied, battery backup, solar, or gas generator. We will discuss all these options in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Off-Grid System
An off-grid system is an independent and sustainable solar power setup not connected to the electrical grid. Consequently, they are more expensive as you will need more solar panels and fat battery storage.
Another factor to consider is planning for cloudy and rainy weather when the sun is not shining bright enough. You will need a generator if batteries are low and your solar panels are not producing enough electricity.
Grid-Tied System
A grid-tied system is a hybrid system powered by solar panels, which are also connected to the grid. These systems do not need a battery system as in case the solar panels are not producing enough electricity, you can get extra from the grid. However, in case of a power outage from the grid, your solar system will also shut down to ensure the safety of workers. So, if you ask do solar panels work during a power outage in a grid-tied system, the answer is no.
Also, grid-tied systems feed extra solar power back to the main grid, and you receive credits on the power bill.
Battery Backup System
A battery backup system has a backup power system using lithium-ion batteries. The extra power produced by the solar panels is saved in the batteries that are used later. The extra energy is credited back to the grid when the batteries are full. The plus point of a battery-backed system is that you can switch to batteries in case of a power outage. Do solar panels work during a power outage in a battery backup system? Yes.
Solar Generator
Solar generators are a combination of power stations and solar panels. They are great options as you can use live solar energy when the sun is shining and charge the solar generator to use it otherwise.
The plus point is that solar generators like Jackerty are lightweight and compact. Hence, they are ideal for camping, RVing, kayaking and other adventures. You can also use them as power backups in case of outages.
Gas Generator
Gas generators are an option for longer power outages and emergency backups. However, proper installation and care are required to operate these generators. Be careful never to use them indoors as they emit fumes and are prone to get heat up.
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Pros |
Cons |
|
Off-Grid System |
1. Completely independent and sustainable. 2. Work in power outages. 3. It can be installed in remote areas. |
1. Expensive to install. 2. No backup in case solar panels are not producing enough power. |
|
Grid-Tied System |
1. Extra power is available from the grid if solar energy is insufficient. 2. Surplus solar energy can be credited back to the grid. 3. Less expensive than off-grid. |
1. Grid-tied systems shut off in case of a power outage. 2. No battery storage. |
|
Solar Generator |
1. Multi-purpose and portable. 2. Work in power outages. 3. Quiet and low maintenance |
1. Limited power capacity. 2. Slow recharging |
|
Gas Generator |
1. Portable and compact. 2. Work as an emergency backup. 3. No dependency on weather. |
1. Noise and fumes. 2. Fossil fuel usage. 3. It can be expensive if used for a longer span. 4. Not safe |
How Much Solar Power Does Home Outage Need
A portable solar generator uses solar panels to capture the solar energy and then store it in a battery for later use. Solar power is an environmentally friendly option that is also noise and fumes-free. Thus it is a very safe option to be used even indoors.
Since it is portable and lightweight, it can also be included in outdoor adventures, camping and others.
An average house uses 886 kWh monthly or 30 kWh daily in the US. Though in case of a power outage, you can only power the most critical appliances.
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Home Appliances |
Estimated Watts |
Using Time |
Solar Power Needed |
|
Kitchen |
|||
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Refrigerator |
300W |
8H |
2400Wh |
|
Kettle |
850W |
30Minutes |
425Wh |
|
Induction Cooker |
2300W |
2H |
4600Wh |
|
Electric Oven |
1600W |
1H |
1600Wh |
|
Living Room |
|||
|
TV |
60-100W |
2H |
120-200Wh |
|
Portable Air Conditioner |
1150W |
4H |
4600Wh |
|
Bedroom |
|||
|
CPAP |
40W |
8H |
320Wh |
|
Space Heater |
1500W |
3H |
4500Wh |
|
Lights |
100W |
8H |
800Wh |
|
Laundry |
|||
|
Clothes Washer |
800W |
2H |
1600Wh |
|
Iron |
1200W |
2H |
2400Wh |
|
Office |
|||
|
Laptop |
100W |
8H |
800 Wh |
|
Modem |
7W |
8H |
56 Wh |
|
printer |
100W |
2H |
200Wh |
Jackery Solar Generators: Best Power Outage Backup
The Jackery solar generators have set a high-quality standard, ease of use and after-sales service. They offer a wide range of quality products in different power capacities, which are very safe, fluctuation free, noise and fumes free, and provide high solar energy to electrical power conversion.
Do solar panels work during a power outage? They do, but can you use this solar energy during a power outage? It depends on the configured system. The Jackery solar generators offer you a perfect alternative in case of power outages. Here are some features that make these generators the best option.
- Leading BMS (Battery Management System) provides 12 layers of protection to safeguard against short circuits, voltage spikes, and much more. Hence your appliances remain safe, and there is no safety issue.
- The MPPT technology maximizes energy extraction and ensures 99% solar charging.
- Multiple charging options including solar panels, carport and AC outlet. It also offers fast charging and takes only 2-4 hours to reach complete charging using solar panels.
Solar Generator 3000 Pro
Solar generator 3000 Pro offers 3024Wh capacity, which is a large number for a solar generator, and it can power most of the equipment you will be using in a power outage. It has a strong build, so you can easily use them even in extreme weather. Its BMS and MPPT technology offers fast charging and protection against overcharging, fluctuations and quiet operation.
Customers say:
“The Jackery solar generator 3000 pro is an all-in-one solution for many purposes. I use it as a backup for power outages, as in our area, outages become longer when hurricanes occur. This generator can power my refrigerator, laptop, TV, microwave, etc.”
Solar Generator 2000 Plus
Solar generator 2000 plus offers an expandable capacity of 2-24 kWh, which can power even high requirements of 6000W. Its advanced IBC technology ensures fast solar charging that takes only 2 hours. It is a great value for money as its LiFePO4 Battery gives you a 10-Year lifespan while its technology boosts battery life by 50%.
Customer says:
“I am not technical and will hit my 70s in the next two years. So, ease of use and safety are the biggest concerns I have. My solar generator 2000 Plus has no noise or fumes; I can see the charging status on the screen and know what is happening. ”
Solar Generator 5000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus features a large-capacity solar-powered generator that can charge almost all household appliances during extended power outages or blackouts. The high power output of the solar generator makes it a reliable home backup power that lasts for up to two weeks. The dual voltage support ensures you can charge a load of appliances, such as clothes dryers, water pumps, refrigerators, etc. Integrating the solar generator with the home's electricity system delivers 0ms uninterrupted power supply in the event of sudden power outages.
Customer says:
“Incredible whole home set-up! Easy installation (per the electrician) and very versatile. I look forward to adding more power for a longer backup. Great job, Jackery!” — Customer.
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Series |
Capacity |
Ports |
Recharge Time |
Home Appliances |
|
|
3024Wh |
AC Output(x1): |
120V~ 60Hz 25A Max |
Solar Panel: 3-4 Hours (6*Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels) AC Adapter:2.4 Hours Car Adapter:35 Hours
|
Refrigerator (300W) = 8.0H TV (60W) = 40.3H Heater (1800 W) = 1.3H Stove (800W) = 3.0H Air Conditioner (1000W) = 2.4H
|
|
|
AC Output(x3): |
120V~ 60Hz 20A Max |
||||
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USB-C Output(x2): |
100W Max, 5V⎓3A, 9V⎓3A, 12V⎓3A, 15V⎓3A, 20V⎓5A |
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Car Port(x1): |
12V,10A Max |
||||
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AC Input: |
120V, 60Hz, 15A Max |
||||
|
DC Input: 2x DC 8mm Ports: |
11-17.5V (Working Voltage)⎓8A Max, Double to 8A Max; 17.5-60V (Working Voltage)⎓12A, Double to 24A/1400W Max |
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|
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
|
2042.8Wh |
AC Output(×4)： |
120V~ 60Hz, 20A Max |
Solar Panel: 2 Hours (6*Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels) AC Adapter: 2 Hours Car Port: 25 Hours |
TV (60W) = 27.2H Heater (1800W) = 54 min Stove (800W) = 2.0H Air Conditioner (1000W) = 1.6H Electric Pressure Cooker (1080W) = 1.5H
|
|
AC Output(×1) |
120V~ 60Hz, 25A Max |
||||
|
USB-A Output(x2) |
Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max |
||||
|
USB-C Output(x2) |
100W Max, (5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, 20V up to 5A) |
||||
|
Car Port(x1) |
12V⎓10A |
||||
|
AC Input |
120V, 60Hz, 15A Max |
||||
|
DC Input |
11V-17.5V, 8A Max, Double to 8A Max 17.5V-60V, 12A Max, Double to 24A/1400W Max |
||||
|
5040Wh |
AC Output(x3) |
(NEMA L14-30R/14-50) 120V/240V~60Hz, 30A, 7200W Max (x4): 120V, 20A, 2400W |
AC charging: 3.5 hours Charging via Smart Transfer Switch: 1.7 hours Solar charging: 6.5 hours (2*Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels) High-voltage PV charging: 1.7 hours Hybrid Charging (AC, Solar Panels, and Smart Transfer Switch): 1.7 hours
|
TV (60W) = 67.2H Heater (1800W) = 2.2H Washing Machine (500W) = 8.0H Stove (800W) = 5.0H Air Conditioner (1000W) = 4.0H Coffee Maker (1120W) = 3.6H Microwave (700W) = 5.7H Branch Crusher (1800W) = 2.2H
|
|
|
USB-A Output(x2) |
18W Max, 5-6V⎓3A, 6-9V⎓2A, 9-12V⎓1.5A |
||||
|
USB-C Output(x2) |
100W Max, 5V⎓3A, 9V⎓3A, 12V⎓3A, 15V⎓3A, 20V⎓5A |
||||
|
Cigarette Lighter Port(x1) |
12V⎓10A |
||||
|
Charge mode AC Input |
120V~60Hz, 15A Max |
||||
|
Expansion Port |
AC Expansion Port (Output)(x1): 240V~60Hz, 30A, 7200W DC Expansion Port (Output)(x1): 80.5V-126V⎓41A Max AC Expansion Port (Input)(x1): 240V~60Hz, 16.7A Max DC Expansion Port (Input)(x1): 80.5V-126V⎓98A Max |
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Please note that the working hours calculated in the table are just for reference purposes and may vary from the actual values.
FAQs
1) What size of solar generator do I need when there are power outages?
The required size of the solar generator depends on what devices you want to run during the power outage and for how long. You will find the operating wattage of your device in the manual or product label.
In order to figure out how long your Jackery Solar Generator will last, navigate to each product page, locate the Running Time Simulator/Calculator, and input your appliance’s wattage. This way, you can quickly get the estimated running time of the appliance. For example, the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus can power a device consuming 100W for 40.3 hours. Remember, these are rough calculations and may differ from real usage.
2) Do solar panels work on cloudy days? Do solar panels work at night?
Solar panels may not work efficiently on cloudy days because the sunlight is not strong enough. Also, they do not generate power at all at night. Hence, if you have configured your system to use live solar power only, it is unavailable at night. The solution to this problem is a battery-backed system or solar generator.
3) How many solar panels do I need for my home?
The key factors determining how many solar panels you need are regular energy usage, panel wattage and production ratios. You can determine the average usage by adding the average wattage of all the equipment you will use and for how long. The next step is to check the efficiency of your solar panels. For example, the Jackery SolarSaga 200W solar panels have a high solar conversion efficiency of 24.3%. Pairing these solar panels with a battery backup like Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Portable Power Station will help you build a solar generator for home.
Final Thoughts
With old overloaded power systems and weather changes, power outages are becoming more frequent. Solar power is the best alternative to grid power as it is a green and clean renewable energy source. Many people ask whether solar panels work during a power outage. Well, it depends on how the system is configured. Solar generators are the best choice to power your house when the power is shut. They can be used in various scenarios and capacities. The Jackery solar power generators are portable, compact, and very safe for use indoors and outdoors. They can even power large home appliances and connect various devices simultaneously.
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