In photovoltaic systems, backup refers to the ability to continue providing electricity when the primary energy source, such as solar panels, is unavailable or insufficient. This typically involves the use of a battery storage system that stores excess energy generated during sunny periods for use when solar production is low or when the grid is down. Backup systems ensure that critical loads, such as lights, refrigerators and medical equipment, remain operational during power outages or periods of low solar production.
In grid-tied systems, backup may also include a generator capable of providing power when solar and battery storage are inadequate.
An inverter can draw power from the grid even if the batteries are charged for several operational reasons. The inverter can be configured to prioritize grid power over battery power to ensure battery longevity by not fully discharging it. Additionally, if load demand exceeds the battery’s output capacity or if the inverter is operating in a mode that maintains grid synchronization, it can draw from the grid to avoid overcharging the battery.
In hybrid systems, the inverter can also be configured to consume power from the grid during peak hours or to efficiently manage load distribution.
To operate a PV system during a power outage, you need an off-grid or hybrid system with battery storage. During a power outage, a grid-connected PV system without batteries will typically shut down due to safety regulations and to prevent re-injection into the grid. An off-grid system operates independently of the grid and uses batteries to store energy for use in the event of an outage.
For a grid-connected system, you will need to add a battery storage system and an automatic transfer switch or backup inverter that can detect a power outage and transition the system to battery seamlessly.
EPS in photovoltaics stands for Emergency Power Supply. It is an emergency power system integrated into photovoltaic installations to provide electricity in the event of a power outage. An EPS system typically includes batteries or other storage solutions and an inverter that provides a seamless transition from grid power to battery power in the event of a power outage.
The EPS is designed to maintain power to critical loads, ensuring that essential devices and appliances remain operational during interruptions in the main electrical supply.
A PV UPS, or Photovoltaic Uninterruptible Power Supply, is a system that combines photovoltaic solar panels with battery storage and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to provide a continuous, reliable source of power. The PV UPS system ensures electricity is available even in the event of a grid outage by using solar energy to charge batteries and power connected devices.
It integrates solar power generation, energy storage and backup power functions into a single solution, providing both energy efficiency and reliability for mission-critical applications and sensitive electronics.