What is the difference between off grid and grid tied solar systems?
Though off-grid and grid-tied solar power systems serve the same fundamental purpose, there are differences between their connectivity and how they handle excess power. An off-grid system operates independently from the local grid. It generates power directly from the sun, stores it in batteries and uses it as needed. This is an ideal system for those in remote locations and with unreliable access to the grid looking for total energy independence. A grid tied system is fairly self-explanatory and maintains a connection to the local utility grid, meaning it can draw power when necessary if the solar is not producing as much on a particularly sunny day.
Advantages and Disadvantages of off-grid systems
One main advantage of an off-grid system is that the user has complete control over their power source meaning they will not fall victim to power cuts or fluctuating electricity bills. With proper system sizing and battery storage you can have reliable power even during periods of low sunlight.
On the other hand as an off-grid system requires larger storage and more solar panels it can often mean the initial cost is larger than a grid-tied system. This however does not mean you will not be able to recoup the costs for your system just as quickly or even quicker than a grid-tied system.
Advantages and Disadvantages of grid-tied systems
Grid-tied systems typically cost less because they don’t require as much battery storage and excess power is sold back to the grid, offsetting your electricity costs. Additionally you’ll always have power, even if your system isn’t producing enough to meet your needs.
Alternatively grid-tied systems offer less independence from the grid and you are often subject to increasing energy prices.
At Elevate Envirotech we offer both off-grid and grid-tied renewable energy solutions and offer expert advice on what will be the most suitable solution for you. We encourage honest conversations about the benefits and potential downsides that will affect you and will never suggest a solution that we do not think will benefit your specific situation.
