ONGRID SOLAR SYSTEM
An on-grid or grid-tied solar system is a system that works along with the grid. This means that any excess or deficiency of power can be fed to the grid through net metering. Many residential users are opting for an On-grid solar system as they get a chance to enjoy credit for the excess power their system produces and save on their electricity bills. You will always have power either from the solar system or from the grid. They do not have batteries.
How it's work
Ongrid solar systems, also known as grid-tied systems, operate by harnessing the power of sunlight to generate electricity and seamlessly integrating this renewable energy into the existing electrical grid. The process begins with photovoltaic (PV) solar panels installed on rooftops or open spaces. These panels consist of solar cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then transforms this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is the form of electricity used in homes and businesses.
Solar Panels Capture Sunlight: Photovoltaic solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity through solar cells.
Inverter Conversion: The DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by an inverter, making it compatible with standard electrical systems.
Onsite Consumption: The generated electricity is first used to power the immediate needs of the home or business where the solar panels are installed, reducing dependence on grid electricity.
Grid Integration: Excess electricity, beyond what is needed locally, is seamlessly fed into the electrical grid. Conversely, when solar production is insufficient, electricity can be drawn from the grid to meet demand. This bidirectional flow ensures a reliable and continuous power supply.
BENEFITS
Cost Savings: Ongrid solar systems allow users to generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on the traditional grid. This leads to significant cost savings on monthly electricity bills. Once the system is installed, the sunlight, a free and renewable resource, is utilized to generate power, making the long-term cost of electricity production considerably lower compared to conventional methods.
Environmental Sustainability: Ongrid solar systems contribute to environmental conservation by harnessing clean and renewable energy from the sun. Unlike traditional energy sources that rely on fossil fuels, solar power does not produce harmful emissions or contribute to air pollution. By adopting ongrid solar systems, individuals and businesses play a crucial role in reducing their carbon footprint and mitigating the impact of climate change.
Grid Independence and Reliability: Ongrid solar systems are designed to work in conjunction with the existing electrical grid. This setup provides the advantage of grid-tied systems, allowing users to draw power from the grid when solar production is low and feed excess energy back into the grid when the solar panels generate more than needed. This grid connectivity ensures a reliable and continuous power supply, combining the stability of the grid with the sustainability of solar energy.
Government Incentives: Many governments offer incentives and rebates to encourage the adoption of solar energy. Investing in an ongrid solar system may make individuals and businesses eligible for tax credits, rebates, or other financial incentives. These incentives not only help offset the initial installation costs but also accelerate the return on investment, making solar power an attractive and economically viable option.
DISADVANTAGES
Grid Dependence: Ongrid solar systems are tied to the electrical grid, and during grid outages, the system shuts down for safety reasons, leaving users without power even in sunny conditions.
Limited Energy Independence: Users may not have access to stored energy during daylight hours, as ongrid systems prioritize sending excess electricity back to the grid rather than storing it for on-site use.
High Initial Costs: The upfront cost of installing an ongrid solar system, including solar panels, inverters, and other components, can be a significant financial investment, potentially limiting accessibility for some users.
Grid Regulations and Policies: Government regulations and policies related to grid-tied systems may vary, impacting the incentives, credits, and compensation users receive for excess electricity sent back to the grid. This variability can affect the overall economic benefits of ongrid solar systems.