What it is
Backup power is any setup that supplies electricity to your home when the utility grid is down. Common pieces include a standby or portable generator, a battery storage system, or a combination of the two. Each is connected to your home's electrical system in a specific, code-compliant way.
Whole-home backup aims to power most or all of the house. A critical-loads panel takes a different approach. It is a separate subpanel that feeds only chosen circuits, such as refrigeration, lights, internet, medical devices or a well pump. A transfer switch is the device that safely isolates your home from the grid and connects it to your backup source, which helps protect utility workers and your equipment.
Many people are surprised to learn that a standard grid-tied solar system typically shuts down during an outage for safety reasons. To keep the lights on, a system generally needs storage or a design that supports backup operation. A generator and solar hybrid may pair batteries, solar panels and a generator so each can fill in for the others. What is possible depends on your home, equipment, local codes and utility rules.
How it’s traditionally been approached
For many years the usual answer to outages was a fuel-powered generator. Portable units are moved into place and connected to selected appliances. Permanent standby units sit outside the home and start automatically through a transfer switch. Many households have relied on these, and they remain a familiar choice.
Generators run on fuel such as gasoline, propane or natural gas, so they involve fuel storage or supply, regular maintenance, and attention to exhaust and placement. Batteries are a newer option that store energy, often from solar panels, and supply it quietly without fuel. Some homeowners choose one, some choose both, and some decide to go without backup entirely.
Where a well pump, sump pump, medical equipment or home business depends on power, people have often planned around those specific loads. Starting a motor-driven pump can demand more power than running it, which is one reason sizing matters. Each approach has trade-offs in upkeep, noise, runtime and how much of the home it can support.
How the right solar installer may help
The right solar installer may help you think through what you actually need to keep running. A visit generally starts with questions about your outage history, your essential appliances, and whether anyone at home relies on powered medical devices. They may look at your electrical panel, your meter, the roof, and possible locations for equipment.
A qualified pro may explain the differences between whole-home backup and a critical-loads panel, how a transfer switch fits in, and whether a battery, a generator or a hybrid could suit your goals. They can also explain how a well pump or other large motor might affect the design. All work should be done by licensed, insured professionals following local codes, permits and utility interconnection rules.
Good questions to ask include: Which circuits would stay on, and for roughly how long? What happens to my system in an outage? Who handles permits and utility approval? What are the warranty terms and maintenance needs? Can I get everything in a written quote, including whether it is a cash purchase, loan, lease or power purchase agreement? Be cautious with high-pressure or door-to-door sales, and read the full contract before signing.
The bigger picture
Power outages can bring real stress, especially when food, heating or cooling, communication or health needs are on the line. Planning ahead can bring peace of mind and a sense of self-reliance, and it is reasonable to weigh that against budget and household priorities. No single approach is right for everyone, and each choice has its own merits.
Backup power is also a financial decision, so give yourself time to compare options without pressure. Talking with a few independent installers, asking for written quotes, and checking with a tax professional about your situation can help you feel confident. If you are also thinking about the wider picture of household resilience, Providers.plus may be a useful place to explore related support.
Keep in mind
- Pricing, savings, incentives and system performance vary by home, location, utility and equipment, so rely on a written quote rather than general claims.
- Federal, state and utility incentives and net metering rules change often. Confirm what applies with the IRS or a tax professional, your state energy office and your utility before you sign.
- Never attempt DIY wiring of generators, batteries or transfer switches. Improper connections can be deadly and can endanger utility workers.
- Run generators only outdoors and well away from windows and doors, and follow manufacturer and local safety guidance to avoid carbon monoxide risks.
Solar installers
We’re welcoming founding solar installers for backup power & generators now. Get matched or list your practice.
Frequently asked questions
Does solar panel installation keep my power on during an outage?
Not automatically. A standard grid-tied solar system typically shuts down during an outage for safety reasons. To keep power on, a system is generally designed with battery storage or another backup-capable setup, so ask your installer how your system would behave.
What is the difference between a generator and a battery for backup power?
A generator burns fuel to make electricity, while a battery stores energy, often from solar panels, and releases it when needed. Generators can run as long as fuel is available, and batteries are quiet and fuel-free but have limited stored capacity. Some homes combine both in a hybrid design.
What is a critical-loads panel?
A critical-loads panel is a separate electrical subpanel that powers only the circuits you choose to keep on during an outage. These might include a refrigerator, lights, internet or a well pump. It can make backup systems more manageable than powering the whole house.
Can I run a well pump on backup power?
Often it is possible, but it depends on the pump type and the backup equipment. Motors can require a surge of power to start, so sizing matters. A licensed pro can review your pump's requirements and explain what a backup design may need.
What does a transfer switch do?
A transfer switch safely disconnects your home from the utility grid and connects it to your backup source. This helps prevent electricity from flowing back onto power lines, which can endanger utility workers. It should be installed by a licensed electrician or solar pro following local codes.
How do I find help with solar panel installation and backup power?
Start by listing the items you most want to keep running, then talk to a solar pro who can review your home and explain options. Compare written quotes from more than one independent installer, and confirm incentives with the IRS or a tax professional, your state energy office and your utility. Use the Talk to a solar pro link on our solar page at contacts.plus to take the next step.
Educational resource. 2A Solar shares general information and connects people with independent solar installers. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.