On Grid Solar System
On-grid solar, also known as grid-tied solar, refers to a solar energy system that is connected to the electricity grid. It is one of the most common types of solar installations used by homeowners, businesses, and institutions. In an on-grid solar system, solar panels are installed on rooftops, ground mounts, or other suitable locations, and they convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic (PV) effect.
Here’s how an on-grid solar system typically works:
- Solar Panels: The system consists of solar panels made up of numerous photovoltaic cells. These panels absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.
- Inverter: The DC electricity produced by the solar panels is sent to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity, the standard type of electricity used in homes and businesses.
- Electricity Consumption: The AC electricity generated by the solar system is then used to power the electrical appliances and devices in the building. Any excess electricity not immediately consumed is sent to the grid.
- Grid Connection: The on-grid solar system is connected to the local electricity grid through a bidirectional meter. This meter tracks the amount of electricity the solar system sends to the grid and the amount of electricity the property draws from the grid.
On-grid solar systems are popular because they offer several advantages, including potential cost savings on electricity bills, reduced reliance on fossil fuels, and the ability to contribute excess clean energy to the grid. However, it’s important to note that on-grid solar systems do not provide power during grid outages for safety reasons. This is to prevent electricity from being sent back to the grid and endangering utility workers who may be repairing power lines. For backup power during outages, an additional battery storage system can be incorporated into the solar setup.
Here's what happens when you install an on-grid solar system:
Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC)
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The DC current goes into the inverter that converts it into alternating current (AC)
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The alternating current is fed into a bidirectional meter
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The bi-directional meter supplies AC power to your home to run all household appliances
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This meter supplies excess electricity (units that are not consumed) to the grid
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When the exported units are needed later (eg. at night), the bi-directional meter imports them from the grid.
Every system has benefits as well as certain limitations – an on-grid solar system is no different. Although its connection with the grid is a sure benefit, it’s also a limitation. When there’s a power cut from the grid, the on-grid solar system automatically shuts down.
This interruption in the supply of power is known as a power outage. Nevertheless, on-grid solar systems in urban areas with a reliable grid are unbeatable when it comes to meeting all the power requirements of a home. The main reason that an on-grid solar inverter is designed in a way that it automatically shuts down if the grid fails is to eliminate safety risks. This particular feature that differentiates on-grid inverters from all other types is called Anti-Islanding Protection.
During power outages, an on-grid inverter will stop generating AC power immediately. Otherwise, the electrical maintenance personnel working directly with the wiring at the location of the electrical fault may suffer from electric shocks.
Benefits of On-Grid Solar
On-grid solar, also known as grid-tied solar, refers to a solar energy system that is connected to the electricity grid. It has several benefits, both for individuals and the broader energy landscape:
- Cost Savings: One of the primary benefits of on-grid solar is its potential to reduce electricity bills. By generating your own solar energy, you can offset the power you would have otherwise purchased from the utility company. Depending on your location and the size of the solar system, this can lead to significant cost savings over time.
- Net Metering: Many regions with on-grid solar allow for net metering, a billing arrangement that credits solar system owners for the excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. During sunny periods when your solar panels produce more electricity than your home consumes, you can earn credits or receive payment for the surplus energy, which can further enhance the financial benefits.
- Environmentally Friendly: On-grid solar is a clean and renewable energy source, meaning it produces electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants. By relying on solar power, you help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
- Low Maintenance: Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance. Once installed, they can last for several decades with only occasional cleaning and inspections. Modern solar panels are durable and designed to withstand various weather conditions.
- Reduced Reliance on the Grid: On-grid solar systems provide partial independence from the traditional power grid. While they remain connected to the grid for times when the solar system may not meet all energy demands (e.g., during nighttime), they still offer some level of energy autonomy.
- Incentives and Rebates: Many governments and utility companies offer incentives, tax credits, or rebates to encourage the adoption of solar energy. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing a solar system, making it more financially feasible for homeowners and businesses.
- Contributing to Grid Stability: On-grid solar systems can contribute to grid stability when implemented at a larger scale. Distributed solar generation can help reduce strain on the grid during peak demand periods, potentially lowering the risk of blackouts and improving overall grid resilience.
However, it’s essential to consider some potential limitations as well, such as the initial investment cost and the intermittent nature of solar power (since it depends on sunlight availability). Despite these limitations, on-grid solar remains an increasingly popular and environmentally friendly energy option for many individuals and businesses.
