SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/solar-dc-strings-stay-live

When a string inverter shuts down after losing grid power, what part stays energized in daylight?

The panel strings connected to the inverter still carry DC.

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  1. The AC wiring to the main panel
  2. The panel strings connected to that inverter ✔
  3. Nothing at all

Why: The inverter stops sending AC power, so the AC side goes dead. Sunlit panels still produce DC voltage on the strings that feed the inverter.

Huh, didn't know that: NREL says it is simpler and less expensive to work on de-energized AC wiring than on energized DC wiring.

The dad joke
Solar panels never get the memo about a blackout. As long as the sun is up, they keep working.
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References

Answer: The panel strings connected to that inverter. The inverter stops sending AC power, so the AC side goes dead. Sunlit panels still produce DC voltage on the strings that feed the inverter.

  1. NREL: Best Practices for O&M of PV and Energy Storage Systems, 3rd ed. (2018) docs.nlr.gov/docs/fy19osti/73822.pdf
    only the strings of modules connected to the string inverter remain energized
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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