This article aims to help you choose if a grid-tied solar system is the right renewable energy solution for you. It will walk you through the basic attributes of a grid-tied solar system, point out the pros and cons and help you understand how it will work with your home. Knowing all this information can help you determine if a grid-tied solar system is going to meet your expectations.
What Is A Grid-tied Solar System?
A grid-tied system is a solar energy system that connects to the utility grid and feeds excess power into it. A complete grid-tied system consists of one or more solar panels, an inverter for converting DC electricity from the panels to the AC electricity needed for home use, and wiring to connect everything.
How Does A Grid-tied Solar System Work?
Grid-tied photovoltaic systems send excess electricity produced by solar panels back into the utility power grid during daylight hours when you don’t need it. The excess electricity is then credited to your account through a process called feed-in-tariff. At night or on cloudy days when your panels are not producing enough power to meet your home’s needs, the electricity supplied by your utility company flows back into your home through the same wires that are used to supply electricity from your home to the electric meter.
Can You Save Money With Grid-tied Solar Power?
The answer to this question depends on your electricity bill and how much energy your system produces. In most cases, a grid-tied solar system can reduce your electricity costs, but you won’t be able to eliminate them. The sun doesn’t always shine as brightly as we’d like. You’ll also need to pay monthly charges to your utility company. Even if you don’t eliminate your utility bill, however, you can still save money in the long run.
Advantages Of Grid-tied Solar Systems
1. Reliability: Grid-tied systems don’t require batteries as a backup power source, which saves you money on your installation and also eliminates maintenance costs.
2. Flexibility: Unlike off-grid systems, grid-tied solar panels allow you to connect to the utility grid.
3. Interconnection: Most utilities allow customers to connect their solar panel system to the electrical grid via a process called “interconnection.” Once your system is connected, you can sell back any excess energy you produce at the same rate that you purchased it.
Grid-tied solar systems are economical and convenient because they allow you to participate in net-metering programs that pay you for excess electricity generated by your system. These systems also offer a lower upfront cost than other types of solar power systems because they do not require batteries or a backup generator. Therefore, grid-tied solar systems are ideal for homeowners who want to save money with solar power without taking their homes completely off the grid.
Grid-Tied Solar System Disadvantages
The biggest disadvantage to a grid-tied solar system is that you’re dependent on the local utility company for consistent electricity supply. If there is ever an issue with the grid, such as during a major storm or blackout, then your solar system won’t work until the power comes back on.
After you decide to convert your home to grid-tied solar, the next step is going to be choosing a solar installer. Solar power systems are not an impulse purchase, they come with long-term benefits and savings, and that is why you need to find a reputable company. Mclean Energy is a full-service solar company, expert in the field of solar panels. If you’re looking for an expert installation of solar panels without breaking your budget, contact us today
