What Is a Hybrid Backup Power System?

When the grid goes down, your power shouldn't. That’s the idea behind hybrid backup power systems. These systems combine solar panels, battery storage, and sometimes even generator support to keep your home or business running day or night, rain or shine.

How Hybrid Systems Work

A hybrid backup power system pulls energy from multiple sources:

• Solar panels generate power during the day.

• Battery storage: stores excess solar power or charges from the grid when needed.

• Grid connection: draws power when solar isn’t enough or recharges the battery when rates are low.

• Optional generator: provides a backup layer for extended outages.

This setup ensures continuous power, automatically switching between sources to maintain uptime.

Why Hybrid Over Grid-Tied or Off-Grid?

Unlike traditional grid-tied solar (which shuts down during outages), hybrids keep the power flowing. And unlike off-grid setups, you’re not dependent on the sun or a generator.

Hybrid systems offer:

• Energy independence — run critical loads even if the grid fails.

• Cost savings — optimize when and where your power comes from.

• Flexibility — charge your battery from solar, the grid, or both.

Common Hybrid Use Cases

• Residential homes with frequent outages or unreliable utility service.

• Businesses with sensitive equipment that can’t afford downtime.

• Critical systems like sump pumps, medical devices, freezers, or servers.

At BC Solar, many of our clients opt for Sol-Ark inverters and battery storage to create these hybrid systems, offering seamless switchover and powerful load management.

Benefits You Can Count On

• Keep your lights, fridge, and HVAC running during an outage.

• Reduce your reliance on the grid.

• Gain visibility into your energy use with smart monitoring.

• Qualify for federal and state solar tax credits, including battery incentives.

FAQs

What’s the difference between hybrid and backup-only systems?

Backup-only systems typically involve batteries or generators alone, not solar. Hybrids combine solar, batteries, and the grid for a more dynamic and efficient setup.

Can I install a hybrid system without solar panels?

Yes. At BC Solar, we can design battery-only systems that charge from the grid, especially helpful for businesses facing demand charges or peak power spikes.

How long will my battery last during an outage?

It depends on your battery size and how much you’re powering. Most systems are designed to run essentials for several hours to a few days, and they can recharge via solar during the day.

Can I add batteries to my existing solar system?

Absolutely. We specialize in retrofitting battery storage to existing solar arrays as long as your inverter is compatible, or we install a new hybrid inverter.

A hybrid backup power system isn’t just about keeping the lights on, it’s about peace of mind, energy control, and future-proofing your home or business.

Want to find out if a hybrid system is right for you? Let's talk.

Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or visit us at 777 Busch Ct, Columbus. We’ll walk you through your options, no pressure just honest advice from people who live here too.