When small businesses and homes in the UK shift to solar power, the focus and investment tend to be on solar panels, storage and energy savings. However, one important aspect tends to be downplayed or overlooked: broadband connectivity. Internet is fundamental in the functioning and monitoring of solar systems, smart energy appliances and everyday systems. Understanding the way solar systems work with your broadband will make your transition easier.
Why Broadband is Important in a Solar Powered Setup
Solar power systems and their monitoring software require high powered internet access to function well. Broadband monitoring software is critical in tracking and tracing energy generation, energy consumed and the general health of the solar systems and their components. Without a good internet connection, they lose performance monitoring, data alerts and remote troubleshooting access.
Monitoring and Energy Management
Generally, customers with solar energy systems have access to web and mobile applications that display solar energy generation, battery charge and savings. Apps and data storage systems need broadband access. If broadband is slow or unstable, the applications will suffer delays and reporting gaps that will make it very difficult to optimise energy savings.
Impact of Power Outages on Broadband
Whether you’re on solar or not, every power cut raises the question of what will happen to your broadband. While solar panels may continue to produce power, broadband routers and network devices continue to demand power. Unless battery backup or a Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is in place, your broadband connection is also liable to drop in any power outage – even if your solar system is producing power.
Battery Storage and Continuity of Broadband Internet
If you lose power and have solar, adding battery storage may help you retain broadband access. When used with a powered router or UPS, battery systems will allow you to retain essential connectivity, which is valuable for your home office, alarm system or smart energy controls.
Smart Home and IoT Device Integration
Solar-powered properties often use smart meters, energy monitors, electric vehicle chargers and home automation systems. All of these depend on broadband to communicate effectively. A robust internet connection ensures seamless integration and prevents connectivity issues as more smart devices are added.
Broadband Speed and Reliability Requirements
The move to solar power does not automatically mean the need for faster broadband, but it does mean the need for it to become more reliable. It is best to use fibre broadband to meet this need, due to its high, low delay and stable speeds. This ensures seamless access to monitoring systems and to energy services that are hosted in the cloud.
Mobile and Backup Broadband Options
To achieve further resilience, certain UK customers opt for additional 4G or 5G mobile broadband backup. This option allows customers to keep their solar monitoring and vital services online without interruptions in case their primary connection fails.
Installation Planning and Equipment Placement
To ensure proper placement of broadband equipment during solar installations, prospective customers should consider solar upgrade disruptions and additional cabling needed. Advance planning for router positioning, running cables and power source locations is vital to avoid interference or cutoffs during installation.
Security and Data Protection
Solar monitoring systems collect usage and performance data that should be protected. Secure broadband connections, strong passwords and up-to-date routers help safeguard energy data and prevent unauthorised access to connected systems.
