First point to note – a solar battery does not automatically keep your lights on during a blackout. The system has to be set up to do this for you.
Not All Systems Include Backup
Standard battery systems are connected to the grid and automatically switch off when a fault is detected on the grid. These systems can be fitted with an islanding or backup facility which allows them to supply power during a cut in supply. This would need to be a special facility provided by the inverter.
How the Switchover Works
Each home battery is able to detect a fault on the grid and switch to “islanding” and supply the home with power very quickly, as how the grid detects a fault and then isolates the affected circuits is to protect engineers working on lines.
What You Can Realistically Run
A typical 5 – 10 kWh battery will power lights, router, phone charging, and fridge for several hours. However, devices such as electric showers, ovens, and EV chargers use too much power to be included in backup mode.
Check Your Inverter First
Not every inverter supports backup mode. Check which inverter models your installer can offer that support, and check whether they charge any extra for backup wiring.
Questions to Ask Before You Commit
You can check here for information on solar battery storage systems in the Cotswolds and ask if a system offers any form of protection against power cuts. The questions to ask when researching the option of solar battery storage for your home are: does the proposed installation provide any form of blackout protection? What circuits would it be able to supply? Is there any extra charge for the required backup switchgear? More on Solar Battery Storage Cotswolds can be found at https://www.precisiongreenenergy.co.uk/renewables/solar-battery-storage/cotswolds/.
Knowing what your system can and cannot do in the case of a power cut will allow you to make the best choice first time.