How Solar Energy Works at Night: The Role of Batteries and the Grid
One of the most common questions people ask about solar energy is: “What happens when the sun goes down?” Since solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, you might wonder how your home stays powered after dark.
The good news is, with the right setup, solar power can still keep your home running at night — thanks to battery storage and grid-tied systems. In this blog, we’ll break down what happens after sunset and how your solar system continues to support your energy needs 24/7.
Solar Panels and Daytime Energy Production
Let’s start with the basics. During the day, your solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. This energy is used to power your home in real time. If your system produces more electricity than you need, that excess energy has two possible paths:
It’s stored in a home battery system for later use, or
It’s sent back to the electricity grid (if you have a grid-tied system)
This setup ensures your daytime solar power doesn’t go to waste — and it’s the key to maintaining energy after dark.
Option 1: Battery Storage for Night-Time Power
A solar battery allows you to store the unused electricity your panels generate during the day. Once the sun sets, your home can draw energy from the battery rather than relying on the grid.
Benefits of battery storage include:
Powering your home with clean energy even at night
Protection during blackouts or grid outages
Reduced dependence on electricity retailers
Maximised self-consumption and energy savings
With a scalable system like the iStore Battery, homeowners can store up to 30 kWh of energy — enough to power most households well into the night or even through cloudy days.
Option 2: Grid-Tied Solar Systems
If you don’t have a battery, your solar system can still work seamlessly — by staying connected to the grid. During the day, you use solar energy first. At night, your home automatically switches to grid power to cover your needs.
In many cases, you’ll receive feed-in tariffs for the excess solar energy you send back during the day. These credits can help offset the cost of the electricity you use from the grid at night.
While you’re still reliant on the grid, a grid-tied system is a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of solar without the upfront cost of battery storage.
What About Hybrid Systems?
Hybrid systems combine the best of both worlds — solar panels, a battery, and grid connection. They allow for:
Smart switching between solar, battery, and grid
Greater energy independence
Backup power when the grid is down
This setup offers flexibility, resilience, and long-term savings — ideal for families or anyone planning for a fully electrified home.
Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean your solar system stops working. With a smart design that includes battery storage, grid connection, or both, you can enjoy reliable power around the clock.
Whether you’re looking to maximise self-sufficiency or simply reduce your bills, solar energy continues to deliver — day and night.
Get in touch today to start our journey together.
Stay committed!
Damien Frearson
