On-grid solar is connected to the electricity network.
A grid-connected system is designed to operate with the electricity network. It can serve property loads and, where approved, export surplus electricity under the applicable metering arrangement. Do not assume that a conventional grid-connected inverter will power your home during a network outage.
Hybrid systems need a complete backup design.
A compatible hybrid inverter and battery can form part of a backup solution, but the word “hybrid” alone does not define what will stay on. The design must account for battery capacity, power limits, protected circuits and safe operation.
- Which appliances must stay on, and what is their starting load?
- How long must those appliances run without grid power?
- How will the battery be charged and maintained?
- What happens when the battery is depleted?
- Which warranties and replacement costs apply?
Battery capacity and solar panel capacity are not the same.
Solar capacity describes the generating system, while battery energy capacity describes stored energy. The inverter also has a power limit. These specifications need to be considered together; adding panels alone does not establish a longer backup duration.
Compare the system against your priorities.
If your main goal is lower grid purchases, discuss your daytime use and metering options. If outages are a concern, list essential loads and ask for a specific backup proposal. Compare installed cost, battery life assumptions, service obligations and the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Your questions, answered.
Do all solar systems need batteries?
No. Batteries are one option for storage or backup, but not every grid-connected solar design includes them. The right arrangement depends on your requirements and the approved system design.
Can a hybrid solar system run every appliance during an outage?
Not automatically. Available backup depends on inverter power, battery capacity, circuit design and the loads in use. Ask the installer to identify the supported appliances and the assumptions behind the backup duration.
Official information
Confirm programme eligibility and current requirements with the relevant authority before making a decision.