Solar energy systems are growing at an impressive rate in the United States. Since Congress passed the solar federal tax credit, solar installations have spread by 37 percent yearly. Solar power provides a clean and renewable way to enjoy the comforts of daily life in your home.
Getting solar panels is a step toward reducing your carbon footprint, but other factors must be considered. Understanding the types of solar setups can help you find the right fit for peace of mind and savings.
The hybrid solar inverter is an advancement that is changing the game, but you must compare it to an on-grid system. Continue reading to learn the differences between both setups for your energy needs today!
What Is an On-Grid Solar System?
On-grid solar systems are also called grid-tied systems. They stand apart from other solar setups because they remain connected to and reliant on your local power grid. Most grid-tied systems do not have solar batteries for surplus energy storage.
The system works by harnessing energy with solar panels during daylight hours. That energy runs appliances, charges devices, and keeps the lights on. At night, your home’s power comes from the grid.
Advantages of a Grid-Tied System
On paper, the grid-tied solar installation sounds limited. Despite some limitations, it’s still a viable option for many homeowners looking to reduce their electric bills.
Net metering is an impressive benefit you gain from your grid-tied system. You can sell the extra energy you produce to the power company for a credit. The energy collection can be a minor form of passive income for your family.
Another perk is the peace of mind of constant energy flow. You can always count on having power when the electric grid is online. The grid will cover the gaps during slower periods for solar energy production.
A grid-tied solar energy system is characterized by flexibility. When setting up an on-grid system, it’s much easier to size your new solar installation based on your family’s needs. You can identify the number of panels needed to meet your energy production and savings goals.
Most of all, this type of system is cost-effective when paired with a solar charge controller inverter. You eliminate the need for additional expensive equipment like backup batteries. It’s the best balance of clean energy, savings, and affordability.
Disadvantages of a Grid-Tied System
The primary disadvantage of an on-grid system is your total reliance on the grid. Opting against a hybrid inverter for solar means your solar panels will only collect energy if the grid is online.
Due to safety precautions, the solar system will shut down automatically if the grid goes down. The design can limit your access to electricity after severe or inclement weather. It’s an inconvenience some homeowners may not like.
Necessary Equipment for Grid-Tied Solar
A grid-tied solar system requires the bare minimum of solar equipment. You’ll need solar panels from the top solar companies in Reno. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient option but also the most expensive.
You’ll also need inverters for solar energy. The inverter converts your panels’ energy from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). A power meter is also necessary to track the flow of electricity in your system.
What Is a Hybrid Solar System?
The hybrid solar system offers homeowners the best of both worlds: increased energy independence while remaining connected to the grid. The hybrid solar inverter is the technology that makes hybrid solar an option.
The primary design connects your solar system to the grid, using solar batteries to store backup energy. Any extra energy beyond what the batteries can store is sent back to the grid for passive income.
The setup is designed to provide total immunity from power outages. During daylight, your home uses the power your panels collect. At night, you’ll use electricity stored in your backup battery or power from the grid.
These systems have gained popularity due to tech enhancements for lithium batteries and the hybrid solar inverter. If your household is interested in solar energy, this setup is worth considering.
Advantages of a Hybrid Solar System
Many homeowners want a hybrid solar system to decrease their dependence on the grid. Your hybrid inverters for solar allow you to produce and store energy for when you need it most. Your home will still enjoy lights and appliances when the grid goes down.
The increased system efficiency and storage are also beneficial because they help lower your electric bills. Depending on your household’s energy consumption, you can profit from selling extra energy back to the grid.
The system is also designed to provide a continuous power supply. Due to your panels and battery, you’ll enjoy power during outages and severe weather. Use a hybrid solar inverter to save more and leave potential for system expansion.
Disadvantages of a Hybrid Solar System
The primary disadvantage of a hybrid solar system is the higher upfront costs. You’ll need to pay for more equipment, including the hybrid inverter and solar batteries.
The cost is lower than an off-grid system, but you must ensure you can afford it. Consider using the 2024 Solar Tax Credit to save money with government help. You’ll also need to ensure you have the space to hold the extra system equipment.
Necessary Equipment for a Hybrid Solar System
The main changes on the equipment list are the hybrid solar inverter, battery bank, and additional DC connect switch. Depending on your energy needs, these components allow your household to send energy to its batteries or the grid.
Leverage the Power of the Hybrid Solar Inverter Today
Hybrid solar systems offer several benefits over traditional grid-tied systems, and much of it is possible due to the hybrid solar inverter. While grid-tied systems rely on the grid for power, your hybrid inverter for solar provides continuous power.
You can save money on your electric bill while using stored power during inclement weather and power outages. It’s also the most effective way to help the environment with an efficient system.
Solar technology is advancing at an impressive rate, and keeping up with it can help you save the environment and protect your wealth. Visit our Tech content for the latest announcements and releases today!
