Solar FAQs
Quick answers to the most common questions homeowners have about solar energy systems.
Does solar work during a power cut?
In most standard home systems, solar panels shut down during a power cut for safety reasons. This prevents electricity from feeding back into the grid while engineers are working. Systems with battery backup may continue to supply power, depending on how they are configured.
Will solar panels eliminate my electricity bill?
Solar panels reduce electricity usage from the grid but usually do not eliminate bills entirely. Generation varies by season and time of day, and most homes still rely on grid power at certain times.
Do solar panels work at night?
No. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight. At night, homes use grid electricity or stored energy if a battery is installed.
Can I use solar power to charge my EV?
Yes. Solar can be used to support EV charging during daylight hours. Some smart systems allow charging to prioritise solar generation when available.
What happens to unused solar electricity?
If your home is not using all the electricity being generated, excess power is usually exported back to the grid. Some homes use batteries to store excess energy instead.
Do solar panels need planning permission?
In most cases, residential solar installations do not require planning permission, but exceptions can apply. This is usually confirmed before installation.
How do I know if my system is working properly?
Monitoring apps and inverter indicators provide visibility into generation. Consistent output patterns over time are usually a sign the system is operating normally.
These FAQs provide fast clarity on common questions. More detailed explanations are available in the related articles throughout this knowledge base.