On-grid solar systems, also known as grid-tied or grid-connected systems, have become a key component of the renewable energy landscape. These systems offer an efficient, cost-effective way to utilise solar power, providing significant economic and environmental benefits. This blog will explain how on-grid solar systems work and help you reduce your electricity bill.
What is an On-Grid Solar System?
An on-grid solar system is a renewable energy setup that connects directly to the public electricity grid. It allows homes and businesses to generate their own electricity from solar panels while remaining connected to the traditional power grid. This connection enables users to use solar power when available and draw from the grid when necessary.
What are the Components of an On-Grid Solar System?
- Solar Panels: These are photovoltaic modules that convert sunlight into electricity.
- Inverter: Converts the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) used in homes and businesses.
- Mounting Structure: Secures the solar panels to your roof or ground-mounted frame.
- Electrical Wiring: Connects the system components and your home to the grid.
- Net Meter: Measures electricity flowing to and from the grid.
- Monitoring System: Tracks the performance and output of your solar system.
How Solar Panels Generate Electricity?
Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. They are made up of several layers, with the core layers being silicon semiconductor cells. Here is how the process works:
- Absorption of Sunlight: Solar panels absorb photons (particles of light) from the sun.
- Electron Movement: Photons push electrons from their atoms, causing them to move around and create an electric current.
- DC Generation: This movement of electrons creates a flow of direct current (DC) electricity.
What is the Role of the Inverter?
The electricity generated by the solar panels is in the form of DC, which is not suitable for most household appliances. This is where the inverter comes into play:
- Conversion: The inverter converts the DC electricity into AC electricity. Check how solar inverters work.
- Regulation: It regulates the amount and voltage of electricity fed to the household.
How Will Your Home Electricity System Get Electricity?
An on-grid solar system is connected to the public electricity grid. This connection allows for the two-way flow of electricity:
- Using Solar Power: During sunny periods, the solar panels generate more electricity than needed. This excess electricity is sent to the grid.
- Drawing from the Grid: During nights or cloudy days, when solar production is low, electricity is drawn from the grid.
What is the Role of Net Meter?
Net metering is a key feature of on-grid solar systems. It allows for the measurement of the electricity flow of your home to and from the grid:
- Bi-Directional Meter: This meter records the energy supplied to the grid and the energy consumed from the grid.
- Monthly Billing: At the end of each month, the net energy consumed is calculated. Consumers pay for the surplus electricity they consume or get credited for the excess electricity sent to the grid.
Read about net metering in details to know about it further!
What are the Benefits of On-Grid Solar Systems?
- Easy Maintenance: These systems have fewer components and no batteries, making maintenance simple.
- Passive Income Generation: Consumers can earn from the surplus electricity generated and fed back into the grid.
- Cost-Effective and Convenient: On-grid solar systems are cost-effective and easy to install. The cost can be recovered through the additional power transmitted to the grid.
- Reduced Electricity Bills: You will draw less energy from the grid by generating power, thereby lowering monthly costs.
- Energy Independence: On-grid solar power provides a degree of energy independence. You are less reliant on utility companies and less affected by rising energy prices.
- Environmental Impact: You actively reduce your carbon footprint, by choosing an on grid solar system. Solar energy is clean and renewable. It produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. This makes it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.
- Scalability of On-Grid Solar Systems: On-grid solar systems are highly scalable. You can start with a small system and expand over time as your energy needs grow or as you have the budget to invest in more panels.
On-grid solar systems are a practical, efficient solution for modern energy needs. The subsidy on the on-grid solar system will reduce the upfront solar system for home price. They integrate seamlessly with the existing power grid, allowing users to utilise solar power while maintaining a reliable energy supply. Grid-tied solar systems are an excellent choice for homeowners today looking to embrace clean energy solutions.