GRID-TIED SOLAR ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
Grid-Tied solar electric
systems are the most efficient type of system and the least costly,
making them the most common. The system consists of photovoltaic solar
modules and an inverter. The modules, which can be mounted either
to an existing roof or on a ground-mounted structure, convert
the sun’s energy into direct current (DC) power. The Inverter
takes the DC power from the modules and converts it to high quality
alternating current (AC) electricity, which is compatible with
your home and the utility. The inverter is then tied into your
electrical breaker panel allowing you to use the sun’s energy
to power your home or business. Grid-tied systems must be connected
to the utility to function; therefore they do not operate during
a utility power outage. Find out how it works.
GRID-TIED with Battery Back-Up SOLAR ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
Grid-Tied with Battery Back-Up
solar electric systems differ from straight grid-tie systems in that they have
a battery bank and will continue to operate when there is a power
outage. They operate in conjunction with the grid just like a
grid-tied solar electric system, but if the power goes out your solar electric
system will continue to power critical circuits in your home.
Battery Back-up solar electric systems are less common due to the higher cost
of installation, and the fact that such a system is not as efficient
as a straight grid-tied system.
STAND ALONE SOLAR ELECTRIC SYSTEMS
Stand-Alone solar electric systems operate
on the same basic principles as grid-tied with battery back-up
systems, however instead of tying into the local utility they
function independently from the grid. They are used for properties
where utility power is not available, or very costly. A stand-alone
system utilizes a battery bank to store the energy produced by
the modules, allowing you to draw electricity even when the modules
are not receiving energy from the sun. After being stored in the
batteries, the DC power flows to the inverter where it is converted
to AC electricity for use in your home.
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