Blackouts in New Jersey can strike without warning, leaving homeowners uncertain about how long the lights will stay off and which appliances they can keep running, particularly when the electrical grid is down . Severe weather events like hurricanes, nor’easters, and heavy snowstorms often strain the power grid, making outages a recurring issue across North and Central NJ communities such as Morristown, Summit, and Short Hills. For families who depend on electricity for heating, cooling, or medical equipment, the sudden loss of power is more than an inconvenience; it can pose real risks.
That’s why a solar power system during blackout conditions is becoming an essential solution for many NJ homeowners. Standard grid-tied solar panels shut down when the utility grid fails, but combining solar with a battery backup system allows you to generate and store electricity that keeps your home running when others go dark. At American Home Contractors, we install solar panels, Timberline Solar™ shingles, and advanced battery storage systems designed to deliver reliable backup power during outages while also lowering monthly energy bills year-round.
Do Solar Panels Work During a Blackout?
Solar panels alone do not provide electricity during a blackout. Most grid-tied solar systems are designed with a safety feature called anti-islanding, which automatically shuts them down during outages. This measure protects utility workers who may be repairing downed power lines by ensuring no excess electricity is sent back into the grid.
In New Jersey, where storms often cause widespread outages, many homeowners are surprised to learn that their panels won’t keep the lights on unless paired with additional equipment. A solar panel system requires a backup battery system and a specialized inverter to function during grid outages. These components allow your home to disconnect, or “island,” from the grid and continue producing electricity safely.
By installing a solar battery backup system alongside your panels or solar roofing shingles, you gain true energy independence. Instead of sitting powerless during outages, your system produces and stores electricity, ensuring you have power when you need it most.
How Solar + Battery Systems Keep Your Home Powered
A solar + battery system captures excess energy from your panels during the day and stores it for later use. When the grid fails, your system automatically switches to battery power, similar to a solar-powered generator running your home independently. This setup ensures you aren’t fully dependent on grid power and can maintain comfort and safety during extended outages.
During blackouts, most homeowners choose to power essential appliances. This helps maximize battery life and ensures critical needs are met. Examples include:
- Refrigerators and freezers to prevent food spoilage
- Lighting in the main living spaces for safety
- Wi-Fi routers and communication devices
- Medical equipment or CPAP machines
- Sump pumps to prevent basement flooding
For New Jersey homeowners, solar batteries are especially valuable during summer thunderstorms and winter snow events. With a properly sized system, you can keep your essentials running during extended power outages while waiting for the utility company to restore power.
How Long Can Solar Battery Backup Last?
The length of time a solar battery can power your home depends on its capacity (measured in kilowatt-hours) and your household’s electricity usage, which determines how much power is needed . A common residential battery, like a 10 kWh system, can keep essentials like a refrigerator, lights, and internet running for around 24 hours. Larger battery banks provide extended coverage, especially when paired with ongoing solar production during daylight hours.
Here’s a simplified look at how different battery sizes perform:
| Battery Size | Example Appliances Covered | Approximate Runtime |
|---|---|---|
| 10 kWh | Fridge, lights, Wi-Fi | ~24 hours |
| 13.5 kWh | Fridge, lights, Wi-Fi, sump pump | 24–36 hours |
| 20 kWh+ | Essentials + more rooms, small AC | 2–3 days |
Keep in mind that running large appliances like central air conditioning or electric ovens will shorten runtime significantly. In many cases, New Jersey homeowners prefer to prioritize critical loads during outages.
With NJAHC, our solar experts help you size your battery backup system based on your specific energy usage and local blackout risks.
Solar Roofing Shingles vs. Traditional Solar Panels in Blackouts
Both solar roofing shingles and traditional panels can power your home during outages when combined with a battery, thanks to proper solar panel installation. The difference lies in appearance and integration. Solar shingles, like Timberline Solar™ Shingles from GAF, blend seamlessly with your roof, eliminating the bulky look of traditional panels while providing the same energy production and backup potential.
For many NJ homeowners, shingles are the ideal option because they combine two functions: they protect your home from severe weather and produce renewable electricity. Given that storms in New Jersey often damage older roofs, choosing solar roofing during replacement can be a cost-efficient upgrade that prepares your home for blackouts.
Costs and Incentives for NJ Homeowners
The cost of solar panels cost with battery backup in New Jersey varies depending on system size, battery capacity, and installation complexity. A typical battery backup ranges from $10,000–$20,000, while a full solar panel or solar roofing system can cost more depending on energy needs.
The good news: incentives reduce these costs significantly. Homeowners can take advantage of:
- Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC): Currently 30% off total system cost.
- NJ Clean Energy Program: Rebates and financing options for solar + storage.
- Net Metering in NJ: Credits for excess power sent back to the grid.
These programs make backup solar systems not only affordable but also a smart investment. Over time, savings on electricity bills combined with blackout protection provide a strong ROI for New Jersey households.
Preparing Your NJ Home for Blackouts with Solar
Preparing your home for blackouts with solar requires more than just installing panels. A well-designed system combines battery capacity, inverter technology, and energy planning. NJAHC recommends the following steps:
- Schedule a professional roof inspection to ensure your home is ready for solar installation.
- Choose between solar panels or Timberline Solar Shingles, depending on your aesthetic and roofing needs.
- Size your battery system to match your essential electricity usage.
- Install advanced inverters and switches that allow safe islanding during outages.
- Maintain your solar + battery system to ensure reliability during severe weather events.
By partnering with NJAHC, you gain access to factory-certified crews and products designed for long-term performance in New Jersey’s climate.
The Role of Inverters in Solar Power During Blackouts
When discussing solar power during blackout scenarios, the inverter often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. An inverter is the component that converts direct current (DC) from your solar panels into alternating current (AC) that your home appliances can use. But during outages, not all inverters perform the same.
Most standard inverters will shut down automatically to prevent electricity from flowing back to the grid, a safety feature designed to protect utility workers. However, hybrid or battery-compatible solar inverters allow your system to “island” from the grid and continue powering your home. These advanced inverters direct stored energy from your battery to the circuits you’ve prioritized, keeping essentials like lighting, refrigeration, and communication equipment running.
For NJ homeowners, choosing the right inverter is critical to ensuring reliable backup power. At American Home Contractors, we install systems with inverters specifically designed for blackout conditions, helping families across Morristown, Summit, and other New Jersey communities stay powered and protected when the grid fails.
Solar Power vs. Generators: Which Is Better for NJ Blackouts?
Homeowners often compare grid-tied systems with traditional gas or propane generators when preparing for blackouts. While generators have long been a common choice, solar energy systems with batteries offer clear advantages for many New Jersey households.
- Noise & Emissions: Generators are noisy and release harmful emissions, while solar batteries run silently and produce no pollution.
- Fuel Dependence: Generators require constant refueling, which can be difficult during extended outages. Solar batteries recharge daily from the sun.
- Maintenance: Generators need regular servicing, oil changes, and testing. Solar batteries require little to no maintenance.
- Cost Over Time: Although the upfront cost of a battery may be higher, long-term savings on fuel and energy bills make solar a more cost-effective investment.
Generators still have their place for certain homes, especially those with very high energy needs. But for most NJ families, solar power during blackout conditions provides a cleaner, quieter, and more reliable solution that works seamlessly with your home’s energy system.
Conclusion
Blackouts in New Jersey are a growing concern, but homeowners don’t have to remain powerless when the grid fails. With a properly designed renewable energy solar + battery system, you can keep essentials running, reduce your reliance on the utility company, and prepare for the next storm. NJAHC specializes in solar panels, Timberline Solar Shingles, and battery backup systems, offering turnkey solutions that combine resilience with long-term energy savings.
When outages leave your neighborhood in the dark, you don’t have to be without power. American Home Contractors specializes in solar panels, Timberline Solar™ shingles, and battery backup systems that keep New Jersey homes running when the grid goes down. From Morristown to Summit and throughout North and Central NJ, homeowners trust our factory-certified crews for reliable roofing and solar solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how solar power during blackout conditions can protect your family and your home.
FAQs
Do solar panels work in a blackout?
No. Standard grid-tied solar panels shut off automatically during blackouts for safety reasons. To maintain power, you need a solar battery backup system paired with the proper inverter.
Can I use my solar panels when the power goes out?
You can only use solar panels during a power outage if they are installed with a battery backup system and an inverter that allows your home to disconnect from the utility grid. NJAHC offers solutions that make this possible.
Which of the following should never be done during a power outage?
During an outage, never attempt to bypass safety systems or connect your solar setup directly to appliances without proper equipment. This endangers utility workers and your home. Always rely on a certified battery backup system.
How long do solar batteries last in a blackout?
Solar batteries typically last 24–36 hours, powering essential loads. Larger systems extend runtime, especially when paired with ongoing solar generation during daylight hours. NJ homeowners can customize their setup for longer outages.