Thousands of Australians are affected by power blackouts every year. Because of this, many homeowners are exploring solar batteries as a backup power source to keep the lights on when extreme weather hits.
When the power goes out, most of us realise just how much we rely on electricity — the fridge, WiFi, lights, even charging our phones. With extreme weather events and network outages affecting thousands of Aussie households every year, it’s no wonder more people are asking: will a solar battery keep my home running during a blackout?
The answer: yes… but only if your system is set up for it. Let’s break it down.
Common questions about solar batteries during a blackout
Do all solar batteries keep your home powered in a blackout?
It surprises many people, but not all batteries automatically kick in during a power outage. In fact, most standard systems will shut down when the grid goes dark.
That’s not a fault, it’s a safety feature. If your solar system kept sending power to the grid while workers were repairing the lines, it could put them at risk. That’s why “grid-connected” systems are designed to pause during blackouts.
So how do you keep the lights on when everyone else is in the dark? That’s where blackout protection (also called islanding) comes in..
What do you need for reliable backup power?
If you want your battery to work during an outage, you’ll need a system designed for it. That usually means:
- A hybrid inverter – this manages power between your panels, your battery, and the grid.
- A dedicated backup circuit – this separates your essential loads (things like lights, fridge, WiFi, phone chargers) from non-essential ones (like pool pumps or air con).
- The right battery – not every model supports blackout functionality, so it’s important to choose one that does.
When you’re talking to your installer, make sure you specify that blackout protection is a priority. That way your system is designed with the right components from day one.
What can you power during a blackout?
The beauty of having a battery is choice. During an outage, your system will power the “essentials” you’ve set up in your backup circuit. For most households, that means:
- Lights
- Fridge
- WiFi and device chargers
- A few appliances you can’t live without
How long can a battery supply backup power?
The size of your battery will determine how much you can run, and for how long. Smaller batteries may give you a few hours of coverage. Larger systems can keep the essentials going for much longer – in some cases, even days.
And here’s the bonus. If the sun is shining while the grid is down, your solar panels can keep charging the battery, giving you extended coverage for as long as the blackout lasts.
Are all battery systems capable of blackout protection?
Not all batteries and inverters are created equal. Lithium-ion batteries are generally the most reliable, efficient, and long-lasting option for backup. At Think, we work with trusted brands like Tesla Powerwall, AlphaESS and Sungrow – all proven performers in Australian conditions.
When we design a system for blackout protection, our team looks at:
- Your household’s typical energy usage.
- Which appliances you want to keep running during an outage.
- How long you want that backup power to last.
We’ll draft a backup load design that maps out exactly how your battery will support you when the grid goes down — so you’re not left guessing.
Our approach to blackout protection
At Think, we make sustainable choices as simple as possible. Our team will help you explore the solar battery options that are best for you, offer advice and customise your system to meet your needs. They will understand how much energy you’re likely to consume in a blackout through a load assessment and draft a backup load design (a plan for wiring your devices so they continue working). Our team will then install your solar battery and give you guidance on how it works, so you have peace of mind when the power goes out!
You’ll be glad to know our support doesn’t stop at installation. As a customer, you’ll have access to our Think Care Package, which gives you a 10-year workmanship warranty, annual reporting and even a complimentary bill check.
Ready to become energy independent?
A solar battery can absolutely keep your home powered during a blackout — but only if you’ve got the right design, inverter, and battery in place. With the right setup, you can protect your essentials, reduce your reliance on the grid, and enjoy real peace of mind knowing you’ll still have power when it matters most.
So why wait for the next outage to hit? Book your free, no-obligation consultation today and let’s get your home blackout-ready.