Grid-Tie Solar

A grid-connected solar photovoltaic system goes by several other names, including on-grid and grid-tie systems. The basic set-up of a grid-connected solar PV system involves solar panels that are linked to the local electric utility grid.

The on-grid solar system components function together in an intricate design to collect and distribute clean, renewable energy. It starts with the solar panels that collect sunlight and convert it into an electrical current. The electricity that these panels produce is direct current (DC) energy, but since your home and the grid function on alternating current (AC) energy, the raw solar energy needs to be converted.

For that, the PV system relies on an grid-tied inverter, which is one of the most important components in your PV system. The inverter will convert the DC energy to AC energy, which can then be used inside your home. From there, the electricity travels via your home’s normal wiring through the AC breaker panel.

Efforts are being made by the Ministry of Public Service, Energy and Public Utilities (MPSEPU) to regulate grid-connected solar systems in the near future. So far however, it is only possible to have an on-grid solar system installed for self-consumption during the day.

At night and during times when your solar system doesn’t make enough energy for your home, you can draw power from the local utility grid. As a result, most grid-connected solar systems do not include a battery since all of the energy is consumed as it is produced.

Currently, there is no compensation for excess solar power flowing back to the grid.