A common knock on solar energy is that it only works in the presence of sunlight. That is a partial truth. While solar panels can not receive photons at night or when the sun’s rays are obstructed, storage technology has come a long way and solar home batteries are able to power household activities for long stretches of time. Solar power and renewable energy solutions, then, is a viable way to preserve energy in the house, especially when the grid ceases to be a source, as in the case of a hurricane and tropical storm ravages.
How Solar Energy Works in a Home
Solar panels, most often installed on a roof, absorb photons from the sun’s rays into their PV (photovoltaic) cells. These cells themselves contain internal electrical fields that generate the flow of electricity. This flow is direct current (DC) and must go through an inverter to become alternating current (AC), the predominant current in homes and offices. From the inverter, the energy goes to the breaker box. From there, electricity is directed to various outlets and appliances throughout the house. Surplus power goes back to the electrical grid for that region of the country.
How Can Solar Power Help in a Hurricane?
As solar panels collect energy during bright and clear days, surplus power not consumed by regular household operations flows to the home battery for storage. In the event of hurricane and gale-force winds, when the electrical grid components are subject to damage and disruption, the tesla solar battery takes over from the circuit box in terms of directing electricity. This allows refrigerators and freezers to preserve perishable foods and certain critical medications as well. Furthermore, it allows air conditioning and other climate regulation to continue without pause. These are important measures, especially when the elderly, disabled, or otherwise infirm are occupying the dwelling. In addition, residents have ongoing access to electronic media in order to keep abreast of weather developments.
Reference: https://prosolarflorida.com/how-solar-energy-can-protect-you-during-hurricanes/
