What is Anti-Islanding?
A safety feature that automatically shuts down your solar system during a grid power outage to protect line workers.
Quick Answer
All inverters installed in the UK must have anti-islanding protection as required by the DNO and G98/G99 standards. This means a standard grid-connected solar system will not provide power during a grid outage unless you have a battery with backup capability (EPS — Emergency Power Supply). Some hybrid inverters offer this feature.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
Anti-Islanding Explained
Anti-islanding is a safety mechanism built into grid-connected solar inverters. It automatically disconnects the solar system from the grid if the grid loses power. This prevents the solar system from 'islanding' — continuing to feed electricity into the grid and creating a safety hazard for utility workers repairing power lines. Anti-islanding is a mandatory requirement for all grid-connected solar inverters.
How Does Anti-Islanding Work in the UK?
All inverters installed in the UK must have anti-islanding protection as required by the DNO and G98/G99 standards. This means a standard grid-connected solar system will not provide power during a grid outage unless you have a battery with backup capability (EPS — Emergency Power Supply). Some hybrid inverters offer this feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my solar panels work during a power cut?
Standard grid-connected systems shut down during outages due to anti-islanding protection. To have backup power, you need a hybrid inverter with EPS capability and a battery.
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John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the UK solar energy market since 2023. He fact-checks all content against official MCS and Ofgem data and maintains relationships with MCS-certified installers across the UK.