The truth most solar companies don’t tell you? Your solar panels probably won’t work in a power cut.
I know – it sounds ridiculous. Solar generates your own electricity. So surely, if the grid goes down, your home should stay powered, right?
That’s what many people that we speak to think too.
However, unless your installer has set things up properly — with a battery and a backup system — your solar panels will shut down during a power cut.
Wait… Why Would Solar Turn Off in a Power Cut?
Here’s how it works:
Most solar systems in the UK are grid-tied. That means they’re designed to send excess electricity back to the grid when you’re not using it all.
But in the event of a power cut, the grid needs to be protected from electricity being sent back from your home – otherwise, it could endanger engineers trying to fix it.
So the inverter, which converts your solar power into usable electricity, automatically shuts down to prevent this.
No inverter = no usable power.
Even if the sun’s blazing.
Is There a Way Around This?
Yes — but not all installers will tell you.
If you want your solar system to work during a blackout, you need:
✅ A battery to store your energy
✅ A backup gateway or EPS (Emergency Power Supply) that safely isolates your home from the grid
✅ A system that’s specifically designed and set up to operate in backup mode
Without this setup, your solar is basically useless when the grid fails.
And here’s the kicker: many installers don’t offer this as standard. Some don’t offer it at all.
At Novus Energy We Offer the Full Package
We know that if you’re investing thousands into a solar setup, you want to know it will actually keep your home running — especially when the grid goes down.
That’s what makes Novus Energy head and shoulders above the rest. We don’t just fit panels and disappear. We offer:
- Solar PV + battery storage systems
- Proper backup capability, so you’re protected in a power cut
- Windows and doors upgrades too (because energy efficiency isn’t just about what’s on your roof)
- A 10-year workmanship warranty, plus 25-year product warranty.
- And honest, upfront advice — with no pressure sales
So, Will My Solar Work in a Power Cut?
YES – But only if you choose the right system — and the right installer (Novus Energy)
With energy prices rising and extreme weather more common, we want to help you save money — and give you peace of mind too.
Thinking of going solar?
Make sure you ask the right questions – and work with an installer who gives you the whole picture.
Call us on 01422 768113 or fill out a contact form below today to get your FREE home survey.