Do I Need a Generator with My Solar Panels? (HMM, MAYBE?)

If you’re new to the world of solar panels, you might be wondering if you need a generator to accompany your new investment?

That’s a great question and one I intend to answer in this post.

A Quick Overview

First, let’s start with a quick overview of solar panels and how they work.

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They’re made up of semiconductor materials, like silicon, that absorb the sun’s energy and create an electrical field. That electrical field is then used to generate power.

Do You Need A Generator With Your Solar Panels?

Now that we know how solar panels work, let’s answer the question at hand: do you need a generator with your solar panels?

The short answer is no, you don’t need a generator with your solar panels. Solar panels are designed to work without a generator and can provide you with all the power you need, as long as there’s ample sunlight available.

However, there are some circumstances where a generator may be useful. For example, if you live in an area with unreliable sun exposure, live off-grid or if you experience power outages often, a generator can provide backup power for your solar panels.

A generator can also be used to charge batteries that store solar energy for use at night or during cloudy days.

This is especially helpful if you have a home solar system and want to make sure you always have power, even when the sun isn’t shining.

Related: Solar Panel Vs Generators (WHICH ONE WINS?)

Can You Use A Generator With Solar Panels At The Same Time?

Unfortunately, you can’t use a generator and solar panels at the same time. This is because generators produce alternating current (AC), while solar panels produce direct current (DC).

The two types of power are not compatible and cannot be used together. However, you can use a generator to charge batteries that store solar energy for later use.

However, if you are looking to do a road trip in a TV or caravan, oftentimes people use a Jackery Explorer alongside a foldable solar panel. This is a great way to have sustainable energy on long road trips!

Related: How Much Do Solar Panel Systems Cost?

Why Won’t I Have Electricity During a Blackout?

OK, to answer this question, you need to understand a little bit about how the grid works.

Your home is connected to the grid, which is a network of power lines and generators that supplies electricity to homes and businesses.

When there’s a power outage, it means that the grid has been disrupted and is no longer able to provide power to your home.

Solar panels are also connected to the grid. So if the grid goes down, your solar panels will stop working as well.

This is why you need a generator or storage batteries to store solar energy if you want to have power during a blackout.

So, you’re undoubtedly thinking, “So, now I’m totally confused. Why do I need to be linked to the grid?” As we said, your solar panels only produce power during daylight hours.

You pull energy from the grid at night. Your home absorbs the energy it needs from the panels and then sends any excess back to the grid.

The surplus energy is then sold by the electric company to others on the grid, and you receive a credit on your power bill.

That credit offsets the amount of energy you consume at night, allowing you to save money on your power bill.

What Are My Options for Solar Power When the Power Is Out?

Now, there are ways to have sustainable energy, even during a power outage.

One is to use a generator. Another is to invest in battery storage. And yet another option is to go off-grid with a solar system plus battery storage.

Generators

As we mentioned before, generators can be used to provide backup power for your home when the grid is down.

They can also be used to charge batteries that store solar energy for later use.

If you choose to use a generator, it’s important to get one that is compatible with your solar system.

You’ll also need to make sure that the generator has enough power to run your entire home or business.

Battery Storage

Battery storage units like the Tesla Powerwall are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a way to store solar energy for later use.

Batteries can be used to power your home during a blackout or at night when your solar panels are not producing electricity.

They can also be used to store solar energy for use on cloudy days or during winter months when there is less sun available.

Solar batteries come in different sizes and types. Some batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall, can power an entire home for a day or more.

Others, like the Sonnen battery, are designed to supplement your existing power system and provide backup power for a few hours during a power outage.

If you’re considering adding battery storage to your home solar system, it’s important to consult with a solar installer to see if it’s the right option for you.

Related: How Long Will A Tesla Powerwall Keep My Electricity On?

Solar Plus Storage

If you’re lucky enough to have a solar system with battery storage, you can go completely off-grid.

This means that you won’t be dependent on the grid for your power needs and you’ll have energy even when the power is out.

Solar plus storage systems are becoming increasingly popular as they offer homeowners and businesses the ability to generate their own power and be independent of the grid.

If you’re considering going off-grid, it’s important to consult with a solar installer to see if it’s the right option for you.

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