Existing solar owner guide
Why My Solar Shuts Down During an Outage
Normal solar production and safe outage power are different system outcomes.
The sun is shining, the panels are on your roof, and yet the house loses power. For most grid-connected residential solar systems, that shutdown is expected behavior—not proof by itself that the solar equipment failed.
The short explanation
When utility power is lost, a typical grid-connected system detects the outage and stops energizing the grid connection. This anti-islanding behavior protects utility workers and equipment. Supplying a home during an outage requires equipment and controls designed to isolate the home appropriately and manage available energy.
A battery alone is not the complete answer
Storage may be part of an outage-capable design, but the result depends on verified architecture, controls, selected loads, available energy, site conditions, utility requirements, applicable codes, and manufacturer instructions. Runtime cannot be promised from battery capacity or a product name alone.
You do not need to test the system
Do not open panels, remove covers, alter settings, attempt to create an island, or improvise a generator connection. Equipment may contain hazardous energy even when the grid is down.
Tell us what you expected to keep running, for how long, and what happened. An assessment defines essential loads and the desired outcome before discussing products.
Authoritative sources
Reviewed 2026-08-09. Current case-specific requirements must be rechecked before a decision.