Solar + Backup Power: How to Keep the Lights On in LA When the Grid Goes Dark

In Los Angeles, power outages are becoming more common than ever. Between record-breaking heat waves, wildfires, and increased grid demand, blackouts can strike without warning and last for hours or even days. For homeowners and business owners alike, that’s more than just inconvenient – it can disrupt your comfort, productivity, and even your safety.

That’s why more Angelenos are turning to solar energy systems with backup power. These setups keep your home or business running smoothly even when the grid fails, while also saving money and reducing your carbon footprint. At Phase Electric, we help our clients design and install complete solar-plus-backup solutions that bring peace of mind and energy independence.

Why Solar + Backup Makes Sense in Los Angeles

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LA is one of the sunniest cities in the country – on average, there are more than 280 sunny days a year. That means solar panels can produce a substantial portion of your household or business electricity needs. But solar alone doesn’t keep your lights on during a power outage.

When the grid goes down, most solar systems automatically shut off for safety reasons…unless they’re paired with a backup system, such as a battery or generator. That’s where the true value of combining solar and storage comes in: you get the clean, renewable energy of solar power with the reliability of stored electricity when you need it most.

How It Works

A solar + backup system integrates three main components:

  1. Solar panels – Installed on your roof or property, these panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity.
  2. Inverter and power control system – This smart hardware manages the flow of electricity, deciding when to use solar power, store it, or draw from the grid.
  3. Backup storage (battery or generator) – When the grid goes down, this system automatically provides electricity to essential circuits or your entire home.

When the grid is operating normally, excess energy your panels produce can charge your batteries or feed back into the grid for credits (through net metering). During an outage, your batteries automatically take over, providing seamless power to your home or business – no fumbling for flashlights required.

The Benefits of Going Solar with Backup

  1. Energy Independence
    Stop relying solely on an aging power grid. With solar and storage, you generate and control your own power, giving you energy security year-round.
  2. Lower Energy Costs
    Solar energy dramatically cuts your utility bills, and with battery storage, you can save even more by using stored energy during peak-rate hours.
  3. Reliability During Outages
    Keep critical systems running—refrigeration, Wi-Fi, medical devices, lighting, and more—when everyone else is in the dark.
  4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
    Solar energy reduces your carbon footprint while helping LA reach its clean energy goals.
  5. Increased Property Value
    Homes with solar + storage systems are more attractive to buyers and often sell faster.

Battery Backup or Generator: Which Is Right for You?

While both provide backup power, they serve different needs.

  • Battery Backup Systems (like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries) are quiet, automatic, and environmentally friendly. They work perfectly with solar panels and require almost no maintenance.
  • Backup Generators (natural gas or propane) can provide longer-term power but rely on fuel and periodic maintenance. They’re a good choice for properties that need higher capacity or already have fuel lines installed.

At Phase Electric, we help you evaluate your property, power usage, and budget to design a system that fits your exact needs.

Why Choose a Licensed Electrician for Installation

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Solar and backup systems involve high-voltage wiring, complex control systems, and strict local building codes. Working with a licensed, experienced electrical contractor like Phase Electric ensures your installation is safe, efficient, and fully compliant with city and state regulations.

We handle everything from the initial assessment and permitting process to installation and final inspection, so you can enjoy a seamless, worry-free experience.

Take Control of Your Power Today

Power outages don’t have to disrupt your life. With a custom solar + backup system from Phase Electric, you can keep your home or business powered, comfortable, and sustainable no matter what happens on the grid.

Whether you’re ready to install solar panels for the first time or want to upgrade your current system with reliable backup power, we’re here to help.

Contact Phase Electric today to schedule your consultation and discover how easy it is to achieve energy independence in Los Angeles.

 

Los Angeles solar panel installation and repair - Contact Phase Electric.

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