How Solar and Battery Storage Help During Wildfires

Wildfires are causing more power outages as utilities shut down lines to prevent fires from spreading. If you have solar panels and battery storage, you may keep some power—but can you run your home as usual? Not quite.

Why do wildfires cause power outages?

Utilities proactively shut off power during high-risk conditions to prevent downed lines from sparking fires. During a fire, protection devices also disconnect parts of the grid to avoid introducing additional hazards. If you're grid-connected, your solar system can automatically shuts off for safety reasons.

How Solar and Battery Storage Help During Wildfires

If you have a properly set up solar-plus-battery system, you may still have power during an outage. According to the report, In early January 2025, the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, led to widespread power outages. Daniel H., an Altadena resident equipped with a solar and battery system, was able to keep his home powered for nearly two days during the outage. This allowed him to monitor fire developments and provide crucial updates to his neighbors, facilitating timely evacuations. Daniel noted, "Having the solar and battery system allowed me to monitor the fire and help save lives."

But how long can it sustain your home?

A study found that solar-plus-storage can sustain a home, but smart energy management is key.

Smart energy use during an outage

✅ run efficiently: LED lights, Wi-Fi, phone chargers, fridge (cycling), and fans.⚠️ manage carefully: HVAC, fridge/freezer, and water heating—use them wisely.❌ avoid running: electric ovens, clothes dryers, and EV charging.

final thoughts

Solar and batteries can help, but only with careful energy use. If outages are common in your area, now is the time to prepare and invest in resilience.

Have you dealt with wildfire-related power outages? Share your experience!