Australia is experiencing a major solar power revolution. Experts predict a year-on-year growth rate of over thirteen per cent in solar energy over the next four years.
The country has also been witnessing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. As a result, many people are now looking for ways to boost their self-sufficiency and resilience.
The use of solar panels in extreme weather is suddenly very much on our radar, along with solar battery backup systems. Read on to discover how to stay in control by harnessing solar power during storms.
Greater Independence From the Grid
When you generate your own electricity with solar panels in extreme weather, you can very quickly become less dependent on the main power grid. This has never felt more essential and is especially useful during periods of:
- Extreme heat when the grid suffers under the strain of high demand
- Intense stormy weather when power lines can become damaged
A Continuous Power Supply Whenever There’s an Outage
The latest solar inverters come equipped with anti-islanding technology. This lets them continue operating when the grid is down. You’ll be able to power all essential systems and appliances during power outages as long as there is sufficient sunlight. That means you’ll be able to continue working remotely and stay in touch with loved ones.
The Ability to Withstand Extreme Weather Conditions
The design of most modern quality solar panels can deal with the harshest conditions. These include:
- High temperatures of up to 85°C
- Winds of up to 160 km per hour with correctly installed solar power systems
- Hailstones of up to 2.5 cm in diameter
Fast Recovery with Solar Power During Storms
Solar panels and solar battery backup systems are typically the first to come back online following a natural disaster. They can then provide essential power for recovery efforts, meaning homeowners can return to some sense of normality more quickly.
Why Solar Battery Backup is Essential
Although you’ll experience huge benefits by installing solar panels alone, you’ll significantly improve your home’s resilience to extreme weather events by partnering your panels with a solar battery storage unit. Here are four of the key benefits:
- Constant Availability of Power
Solar battery backup and storage gives you access to a steady flow of electricity even when the sun doesn’t shine. This is essential during:
- Hours of darkness
- Rainy days or when it’s overcast
- Long periods of bad weather
2. Solar Battery Backup Power During Outages
Relying on solar panels in extreme weather is no longer an impossibility. Should the grid go down, a solar battery system will kick in automatically, offering you a seamless electricity supply for your essential systems and appliances and systems. This is especially useful during:
- Blackouts due to extreme weather conditions
- Planned outages related to the prevention of bushfires
- Grid repairs and general maintenance
3. Energy Management and Sharing the Load
Solar battery backup systems go one step further by giving you the option to store excess solar electricity generated during the day. You can then use this energy during the peak evening hours. This storage function will:
- Reduce the strain on the grid when demand for power is at its highest
- Lower your electricity bills, freeing up extra cash to spend elsewhere
- Boost your self-sufficiency by having a supply of your own power
4. Improved Electrical Stability During Heatwaves
When there are extreme heat events, solar battery storage means you can:
- Keep aircon systems running in the evening when solar power production is lower
- Enjoy more comfortable temperatures without having to rely on the grid
- Steer clear of potential outages when there’s a grid overload
The Best Solar & Battery System for Extreme Weather Resilience
To reap all the benefits of solar battery storage and solar panels in extreme weather, you should weigh up all the following factors:
- The Optimum Size of Your System
When considering solar panels in extreme weather, you should make sure your system and solar battery backup are the appropriate size for all your requirements. You can do this by:
- Working out and breaking down your average daily electricity consumption
- Factoring in extra energy needs, such as increased air conditioning usage during heatwaves
- Taking into account your future energy needs and any potential expansion of them
2. Go For Quality and Durability
It pays to buy the top-quality components designed to withstand the extreme weather conditions many in Australia experience. You can do this by investing in:
- Solar panels with high-temperature coefficients
- Solar battery backup systems with robust thermal management components
- Inverters and other system parts rated for outdoor use
3. Smart Technology Integration
You may need to operate solar panels remotely in extreme weather. Choose panels and solar battery backup systems with advanced monitoring and control features. These are ideal for making the most of solar power during storms and should include:
- The option to track energy production and consumption in real-time
- Remote system operation and management capability
- Maintenance alerts that let you know of potential issues in advance
4. Use Professional Installers
Only choose certified installers such as Charged Energy who are familiar with local regulations and conditions. They should do the following as standard:
- Make sure the mounting is secure and resistant to high winds
- Put in place appropriate safety measures and disconnects
- Ensure compliance with all necessary Australian standards and codes
Your Guide to Solar Panels in Extreme Weather
More and more of us have become increasingly concerned about changes in Australia’s weather conditions, our reliance on the grid, and our need to improve our green credentials. The issues around solar panels in extreme weather have never felt more relevant.
The solutions start by partnering with experts like Charged Energy who have all the latest information about solar battery backup and the use of solar power during storms.
Get in touch with one of the friendly team members today and secure your future with a reliable and clean electricity supply.
