Does libbi support Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)?
No, libbi is not a true UPS
libbi cannot offer uninterrupted power. During a power cut, the system will disconnect from the grid briefly (typically around 5 seconds) before switching to battery backup mode. This pause is required by UK grid safety regulations.
However, libbi does feature a “blackout back-up” mode, which allows it to supply power from its battery to a dedicated circuit during a grid outage.
How does the blackout back-up work?
- In the event of a power cut, libbi will automatically begin supplying energy to the designated backup circuit or socket.
- Any connected solar PV will continue to charge the battery during the outage, as long as sufficient sunlight is available.
- The rest of the property will remain unpowered unless rewired into the dedicated backup circuit.
Do I need a separate gateway device?
No external gateway required
libbi includes all the internal switching and safety systems required to isolate essential loads from the grid. There is no need to install a separate gateway, unlike with some other battery systems.
Can libbi power my whole home during an outage?
No, the backup output has power limits
The backup circuit can only supply up to the rated power output of the inverter — either 3.68kW or 5kW depending on model. This is not enough to support an entire property.
Your electrician will need to reconfigure the consumer unit to move essential circuits (such as lighting, fridge, or WiFi) to the libbi backup output. Only those circuits will be powered during an outage.