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Read MoreGrid-Tied Solar System for Your Home or Business
With photovoltaic panels on the roof, a grid-tie solar system allows a homeowner to produce electricity from sunlight. The grid-tie solar system is most common in regions where the utility company provides net metering. Grid-tied systems are less expensive than off-grid alternatives and do not require battery storage. In addition, grid-tie systems can be either fixed or flexible and monitor their performance for optimization.
How do Grid-Tied Solar Systems Work?
Grid-tied solar systems are the most common type installed in homes and businesses. They work by generating electricity from the sun and sending it to the grid. The grid then supplies the home or business with power at night or when the sun isn’t shining.
Solar panels generate DC electricity converted into AC electricity by an inverter. The AC electricity is then sent to the grid, where it can be used by homes and businesses connected to the grid. Any excess electricity generated by the solar system is sent to the grid and used by other homes and businesses.
The main benefits of grid-tied solar systems are that they’re relatively easy to install and maintain and provide a consistent renewable energy source.
What are the Benefits of a Grid-Tied Solar System?
A grid-tied solar system is a solar PV system connected to the utility grid. This system allows you to offset your energy usage with the solar electricity you generate. If your system produces more electricity than you need, the excess can be sent back to the grid for others to use, and you will receive a credit on your utility bill.
There are many benefits to owning a grid-tied solar system, including the following:
Save Money on Your Electric Bill:
By offsetting your energy usage with solar electricity, you can save money on your monthly electric bill. In some cases, you may even be able to eliminate it!
Get Paid for the Solar Electricity You Generate:
If your system produces more electricity than you need, you can send it back to the grid and receive a credit on your utility bill. This means that you can make money from your solar PV system!
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Solar PV systems allow you to generate clean, renewable energy that does not emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants. Using solar power can help reduce your carbon footprint and do your part to slow down climate change.
Increase the Value of Your Home: A grid-tied solar PV system can increase the value of your home by up to 4%. This makes it a significant investment if you consider selling your home in the future.
What is a Grid-tie Inverter?
A grid-tie inverter (GTI) is an electrical inverter that interfaces a photovoltaic (PV) system with the utility grid. GTIs are used in solar photovoltaic systems to change direct current (DC) electricity from the PV modules into alternating current (AC) that can be fed into the commercial power grid. GTIs can also manage power flow between the PV system and the grid, maximizing the use of PV power while minimizing stress on the grid itself.
Most GTIs will have a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) built in, which ensures that the DC input to the inverter is always at its optimal operating voltage for maximum power output. This tracking ability allows the inverter to work with various PV module types and brands.
GTIs are typically installed indoors, as they need to be protected from weather and other environmental conditions. Many GTIs have features like remote monitoring and control, alarms, and automatic shutdowns to help ensure safe and reliable operation.
What are the Disadvantages of a Grid-Tied Solar System?
There are a few disadvantages to grid-tied solar systems. One is that they rely on the utility grid, so if there is an outage, your system will not work. Another disadvantage is that grid-tied systems are usually more expensive than off-grid systems because you need to purchase additional equipment, like an inverter. Finally, grid-tied systems can be complex to install and maintain.
When to Use Off-Grid or Grid-tie Systems?
The grid-tie solar system is the most common residential solar panel system. With this system, your solar panels are connected to the utility grid. This means you can use solar power during the daytime and still have access to power from the grid at night or during a power outage.
A grid-tie system can be used with or without batteries. A grid-tie system without batteries might be a good option if you live in an area with reliable sun exposure and good grid connectivity. However, if you live in an area with less reliable sun exposure or grid connectivity, a grid-tie system with batteries might be a better option.
An off-grid solar system is the best option if you want to be completely independent of the utility grid. An off-grid system requires batteries to store solar power at night or during a power outage. Off-grid systems are more expensive than grid-tie systems because they require more equipment (batteries, inverters, etc.), but they offer true energy independence.
Grid Tied Solar Inverters
Solar panels are connected to an inverter, which converts the Direct Current (DC) generated by the solar panels into Alternating Current (AC). The AC is then fed into the home’s electrical panel, where the home’s appliances and lights can use it. Any excess AC is sent back to the utility grid.
In a grid-tied solar system, the inverter is constantly monitoring the grid for changes in frequency and voltage. When the grid goes down or if there is a power surge, the inverter will automatically shut off to protect your home and appliances from damage.
Grid-tied solar systems are less expensive than off-grid systems because you don’t need batteries to store excess electricity. You also have peace of mind knowing that you’ll still have power even if there is an outage on the grid.
Conclusion
A grid-tied solar system is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. With this system, you can generate electricity and sell any excess back to the utility company. Grid-tied systems are easy to install and maintain, making them an excellent option for those who want to go green without breaking the bank.
Contact @(805)691-8000 Solar Earth Inc for more info and installation for solar system and start saving on electricity bill today.
