With Cyclone Alfred soon approaching Southeast Queensland, homeowners with solar systems need to take specific precautions to ensure both their safety and the protection of their investment. At Electrical Sensations, we want to make sure our Toowoomba community is prepared for whatever comes our way. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you get ready.
Understanding the Risks
During severe weather events like cyclones, solar systems can face several hazards:
Physical damage from flying debris or strong winds
Water getting into electrical components
Electrical surges when power is restored after outages
Safety hazards for homeowners attempting DIY fixes during dangerous conditions
Preparation Steps Based on Your System Type
For Grid-Connected Solar Systems Without Batteries
When the grid goes down during a storm, your solar system will automatically shut down as a safety measure. This means you'll be without power until the grid is restored, even if the sun is shining.
Before the Cyclone:
Fully charge all essential devices (phones, tablets, medical equipment)
Have emergency lighting ready (torches, battery-powered lamps, candles and matches)
Turn your solar system off completely before extreme weather hits
Follow the shutdown instructions on your inverter label or in your owner's manual
This typically involves turning off AC and DC isolators in the correct sequence.
After the Storm:
Assess your system from ground level only—never climb on the roof in unstable conditions
Look for obvious damage to panels, mounting systems, or visible wiring. If it is safe to do so, take photos of the system for insurance purposes
Only restart your system if:
All components appear undamaged
Weather conditions have normalised
You can follow the restart procedure safely
If you notice any damage or are unsure, leave the system off and contact Electrical Sensations for a professional inspection.
For Grid-Connected Battery Systems (Hybrid Solar)
Battery systems can provide backup power during outages, but proper preparation is essential.
Before the Cyclone:
Set your "Backup Reserve" to 100% using your battery app or monitoring portal
Complete energy-intensive tasks early while grid power is still available
Create a priority list of essential appliances that will need power during an outage – eg. Medical equipment, fridges and freezers
Test your backup systems to ensure they're functioning correctly
During a Blackout:
Turn off non-essential appliances to conserve battery power
Monitor your battery levels through your app if possible
Remember that even battery systems have limits—prioritise refrigeration, medical devices, and minimal lighting
For Off-Grid Solar System Owners
Those with stand-alone systems need to be especially vigilant about power management.
Preparation Steps:
Be extra mindful of your energy usage to preserve battery life
Ensure your backup generator is:
Functional and tested recently
Fully fuelled with extra fuel stored safely
Located in a ventilated but protected area
Consider setting up a dedicated emergency power circuit for essential loads only
What NOT to Do During a Cyclone
Avoid These Dangerous Practices:
DON'T attempt to secure solar panels during high winds
Last-minute attempts to tie down or strap panels are extremely dangerous
Professional mounting systems are designed to withstand specific wind loads
DON'T inspect your system during the storm
Stay indoors until authorities declare it's safe to go outside
No solar system is worth risking your life
DON'T handle wet electrical components
Water and electricity create a deadly combination
Wait for components to completely dry before touching
DON'T attempt DIY repairs on damaged systems
Damaged solar equipment presents electrical hazards even when appearing inactive
Always consult a qualified solar electrician for repairs
System Recovery After the Cyclone
Once the storm has passed and it's safe to do so, follow these steps:
Document any visible damage with photos (for insurance purposes)
Clear loose debris from around your system (ground level only)
Contact us at Electrical Sensations for a professional inspection before reactivating your system
Have documentation of your system ready for any insurance claims
Emergency Contacts and Resources
Electrical Sensations: 4637 2744
Emergency Services: 000
SES Storm Assistance: 132 500
Ergon Energy Outages: 13 22 96
Bureau of Meteorology: www.bom.gov.au
Stay Informed and Prepared
Monitor Cyclone Alfred's path through local radio, TV, and the Bureau of Meteorology
Follow instructions from emergency services
Have an evacuation plan ready if advised to leave
Keep a printed copy of shutdown/startup procedures for your system type
At Electrical Sensations, your safety is our priority. If you have any questions about securing your solar system ahead of Cyclone Alfred or need assistance with storm damage afterward, please don't hesitate to contact our team of qualified solar electricians.
Remember, while solar systems are built to withstand normal weather conditions, extreme events require extra precautions. Stay safe, and we're here to help our Toowoomba community weather the storm.
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