WHAT IS GRID TIED SOLAR SYSTEM?

GRID TIED SYSTEM

The most economical method of going solar is grid-tie. Batteries are the most expensive component of any solar system, but grid-tie solar owners can skip them completely!

Let’s explore how grid-tie solar works in a little more detail.

First, let’s define what we mean by “GRID”. The grid is the utility company’s network of equipment that brings electricity from the power plant to your home or commercial building. If a building gets electricity from the power company, it is connected to the grid.

Grid-tie solar systems send the energy they generate into the grid, where it is stored for later use. Under a Net Metering Agreement, the system owner receives credit for anything they generate, and they can make use of that energy at any time.

It’s kind of like a bank account: sending energy into the grid is like making a deposit, and using electricity is like withdrawing against your account balance. If you “overdraft” (aka, use more energy than you produce in a given month), the utility bills you for the difference. No added fees, thankfully.

  **ADVANTAGE**

Grid-tie solar systems is the best option if you want to offset your electricity bill and save money over the life of your system.

1. Energy Cost Savings: Grid-tie solar allows homeowners and businesses to generate their electricity, reducing their reliance on the grid. This can lead to significant cost savings on electricity bills over time. Excess electricity generated by the solar system can often be sold back to the grid, further offsetting costs through net metering or feed-in tariffs.
2. Reduced Carbon Footprint: Grid-tie solar systems generate electricity from a clean and renewable source, the sun. By using solar power, individuals and businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Energy Independence: Provide a degree of energy independence. While they are connected to the grid, they can continue to generate electricity even during grid outages, depending on the system’s design and the presence of energy storage (batteries). This can be especially valuable during emergencies or power outages.
4. Financial Incentives: Many governments and utilities offer financial incentives, tax credits, and rebates to encourage the installation of grid-tie solar systems. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar installations and improve the return on investment.
5. Low Operating Costs: Solar PV systems have relatively low operating and maintenance costs. They require minimal maintenance, typically limited to periodic cleaning and inspections. Solar panels have no moving parts, which reduces the risk of mechanical failure.
6. Scalability: Grid-tie solar systems can be easily scaled to meet specific energy needs. Additional solar panels can be added to the system as energy demands increase, making it a flexible option for homeowners and businesses.
7. Environmental Benefits: Besides reducing carbon emissions, grid-tie solar systems also have other environmental benefits. They help reduce air and water pollution associated with fossil fuel power generation and decrease the need for mining and drilling for energy resources.
8. Energy Security: Contribute to energy security by diversifying the energy supply. This reduces the reliance on centralized power plants and imported energy sources, making the energy system more resilient.
9. Long Lifespan: Solar panels typically have a long lifespan, often exceeding 25 years. This means that grid-tie solar installations can provide clean and reliable electricity for many years, offering a stable source of energy over their lifetime.
10. Increased Property Value: Grid-tie solar systems can increase the resale value of homes and commercial properties. Potential buyers often see the financial and environmental benefits of owning a property with a solar installation.

It’s important to note that the advantages of grid-tie solar can vary depending on factors such as location, local incentives, electricity rates, and the specific design and quality of the solar system. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct a thorough assessment and consider the specific circumstances before installing a grid-tie solar PV system.