Grid-tied vs. Off-grid: What do These Terms Really Mean?

The difference between grid-tied and off-grid solar revolves around where you store the energy you generate.

Every system needs a place to store energy so that it can be used on demand. Your panels only generate charge when the sun is out during the day, but you still need a way to turn the lights on in the evening.

With grid-tied systems, the energy you generate is sent into the utility grid. Your panels feed electricity into the grid, which can be distributed to other people in your area.

In return, you receive a credit for the energy you generate, which you can use any time. Think of it like a transaction at the bank: you are allowed to withdraw as much as you deposit. This is what allows you to keep the power on when the sun goes down.

Off-grid systems are different. With no access to the utility grid, you must find another solution to store energy.

For that, you’ll need to add a battery bank to your system. Batteries provide dedicated energy storage. Without any access to power lines, batteries are mandatory for off-grid solar systems.

In summary: grid-tied systems store energy in the power grid, while off-grid systems store energy in batteries.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Grid-Tie solar system

If you have access to power lines, grid-tie solar is the most cost-effective solution. You’ll cut down the monthly electric bill and turn a profit on solar investment.

Drawbacks: if you utility grid is unstable, you are still prone to outrages.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Off-grid solar system

Off grid system with battery storage provides a compete independent power solution for homeowners. No worry about the sudden power outrage caused from utility grid or severe weather. However, the cost are higher than grid tie system, including of adding battery to the system, installment and maintenance .

What about Energy Storage System

There is a new type of solar system - energy storage system. The system adopts the stackable desigh combining the hybrid inverter (that with the functions of hybrid inverter and off grid inverter) and expandable battery module into one unit. The all-in-one energy straoge system(ESS) provides a flexible energy solution for homeowners. You can feed the surplus energy into the main grids to save the electricity bill or store in battery for later demand. The stacked battery design allows easy installment without extra costs. 

Specifications of Stacked RPS Energy Storage System

Hybrid inverter + lithium iron battery

3kw+5kwh/5kw+5kwh

5kw+10kwh/5kw+15kwh

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