10kW Solar System + Battery Backup: How to deal with sudden power outages?

In the face of sudden power outages, a 10kW solar system coupled with battery backup can provide an effective countermeasure. Based on multiple studies and real-world examples, this combined system can keep critical loads running during an outage and meet the basic power needs of a home or business.

Homes or businesses equipped with solar power systems and energy storage systems can continue to utilize critical loads such as lighting, heating and cooling in the event of a multi-day power outage. For example, in the SunSmart Schools program in Miami, Florida, the installation of a 40 kWh battery system and a 100 kW solar array ensured that emergency shelters had access to power even during extended outages.

Specifically, when a grid outage occurs, the solar power system automatically switches to stand-alone mode, at which point the battery storage system begins discharging to provide electrical support. If sunlight conditions are favorable, the solar panels will continue to generate power and replenish the battery storage, thereby extending the power supply. However, it is important to note that certain appliances may not function properly due to lack of sunlight or other factors, so priority needs to be given to which devices are operated under backup power.

In addition, to ensure the reliability and safety of the system, the following measures should be taken during design and maintenance:

Disconnect and overcurrent protection: Ensure that disconnect and overcurrent protection measures are in place for permanent connections; for temporary connections, easily accessible electrical connection points need to be provided and maintained and supervised by qualified personnel.

Emergency Response Training: Provide emergency response training to employees to improve their ability to respond to emergencies.

Instantaneous Power Failure Compensation Units: For some specific equipment, instantaneous power failure compensation units can be used to prevent damage to the equipment due to an instantaneous power failure.