FAQ: What Are The Differences Between Grid-Tie and Off Grid Home Solar Electric Power Systems?

There are basically three different types of solar power electric grid systems available for homes today.

Grid-Tie:  Also known as on-grid, & grid connected systems,  are systems that are connected directly to your local utility company or grid. This is the type of grid system where you are able to sell your excess or unneeded power back to the utility company effectively making your electric meter go backwards. This is generally the most affordable system to purchase, but you must be in area that offers net metering. Keep in mind this type of system does not give you the ability to store back up power in case of emergencies which requires batteries.

Grid-Tie With Batteries: This type of system is similar to a "Grid-Tie" system except for the fact that it uses batteries to store backup power for when its needed in times of emergency or power failure for instance. In a battery system the batteries are always fully charged by your solar panel system and a special inverter and the excess electricity is used to power the home or sent back to the local utility grid. Because of the batteries and the extra maintenance required, this type of system is more expensive than a standard grid-tie system.

Off-Grid: These types systems are not connected to any electrical grid or utility. These are stand alone systems that are often used n conjunction with a back up generator and are most commonly used in wilderness or undeveloped areas where electric power is not readily available or economically feasible for homeowners to bring in.  Of f  the grid solar power systems are generally much more expensive to install and have more maintenance requirements than a standard grid-tie system.

Find and contact a local solar power installer or contractor near you for more information about about the best home solar electric system for your needs.

 Return to solar power FAQS page.