Backup power
A normal plug-in solar system switches off when the grid goes down. Keeping essential devices running needs a different setup. This section explains what works, what does not and how portable power stations compare on capacity, output and charging.
2 pages
In this section
Backup power for a blackout: what actually works
Why plug-in solar switches off in a power cut, what keeps the fridge, router and lights running instead, and how to plan backup power at home safely.
Portable power stations compared (1 kWh class)
Four 1 kWh portable power stations compared on their data sheets: capacity, output, LFP cells, rated cycles and UPS switchover. Checked October 2026.
Other sections
Plug-in solar
How balcony and plug-in solar kits work, what the 800 W limit really means, how to mount them and how to work out whether one pays off for you.
Batteries and home storage
When a battery makes sense next to plug-in solar, how the systems differ, how zero export with a smart meter reader works and how big a home battery should be.
Plug-in solar rules by country
Registration, power limits, plugs and landlord rules for plug-in solar across Europe, from Germany and the newly opened UK market to France, Benelux and the south.
Tariffs and self-consumption
How dynamic electricity tariffs work with a battery, and whether exporting solar power or using it yourself pays more.
Power plants and the grid
How thermal power plants work, how flue gas cleaning removes dust, sulphur, nitrogen oxides and mercury, Europe's electricity mix and how home batteries join virtual power plants.