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Grid-Connected Solar and Batteries During a Blackout

Find out what may keep running, how to manage essential loads and what to check when the grid returns.

Do not assume solar panels or a battery will keep the whole property running in a blackout. Check your handover information for the backup capability actually installed at your site.

Solar-only systems

Standard grid-connected solar shuts down when mains power fails to avoid feeding electricity into the network. Daylight alone does not mean your property will have power. Special island-capable arrangements are exceptions and must be confirmed for your installation.

Systems with battery backup

Backup needs suitable equipment, wiring and configuration. It may cover selected circuits, one phase or a broader supply depending on the design. Solar may continue charging the battery during an outage only where the installed arrangement supports this.

Available running time depends on stored energy, usable reserve, appliance demand and any solar generation available. Backup power also has a maximum output: a battery can have charge remaining and still be unable to start a large load.

During an outage

  1. Check your electricity distributor's outage information using a phone if available.
  2. Use your handover list to identify backed-up circuits. Avoid guessing based on which socket is nearest the inverter.
  3. Reduce non-essential appliance use. Prioritise the equipment your backup was designed to support.
  4. Read the app or accessible display for battery level and messages, without opening covers or approaching damaged equipment.

Keep a separate contingency plan for critical equipment that cannot tolerate interruption. Do not connect a portable generator to household wiring unless a licensed electrician has provided a suitable connection and operating procedure.

When mains power returns

Allow the system to complete its normal checks and reconnect according to its operating instructions. There is no single restart time or switch sequence for all models. If supply has returned but your system remains in an alarm state, record the message and contact MyEnergy before attempting repeated resets.

If there is damage or an immediate danger

Stay clear of damaged, flooded, smoking or unusually hot equipment. Call 000 for fire or an immediate threat to safety. Read Solar and Battery Safety: Fire, Storms and Flooding.

Further reading: Australian Government guidance on battery backup.

Need help from MyEnergy?

Submit a support request with your site address, equipment models, the date and time of the issue, and screenshots of any messages. You can also call 1300 706 870 or email support@myenergysolar.com.au. Do not include account passwords.