Solar energy is one of the most environmentally friendly and efficient power sources, and it is easily available as long as there is sunlight. If you are considering installing a solar power system at home, you may be confused about how to choose a solar system. There are three types of solar system settings, and each type of solar system has its advantages and disadvantages. Then, you can analyze which type of solar system is more suitable based on your actual situation and needs.
Three main components of the solar system
1. Solar panels
Solar panels are composed of many silicon-based photovoltaic cells (PV cells). Solar panels use the photovoltaic effect to convert solar energy or solar energy into direct current when there is sunlight. Solar panels are used to provide direct current.
2. Batteries
Batteries are used to store solar energy for emergency use of household loads. Generally, they are divided into lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries. During the day, photovoltaic power generation is sufficient and the battery is charged. At night, solar panels generate a small amount of electricity, and the energy storage system can support household electricity use, balance your energy use strategy, and save energy bills.
3. Solar inverters
This is the most important part and the part I want to focus on. Different solar systems use different solar inverters. The main role of a solar inverter is to convert the DC power from the solar panels into AC power on the one hand to support home electricity or feed into the grid; and to convert the DC power from the battery system into AC power on the other hand to support home electricity. In some special cases, such as when the power supply is unstable, the solar inverter can convert the AC power from the grid into DC power and feed it into the battery to cope with power shortages.
What is a hybrid solar system?
Hybrid solar systems combine solar energy and battery storage into a single system, and now come in many different shapes and configurations. As the cost of battery storage has fallen, systems that are already connected to the grid can also begin to take advantage of battery storage. This means being able to store solar energy generated during the day and use it at night. When the stored energy is exhausted, the grid will serve as a backup power source, giving consumers the best of both worlds. Hybrid systems can also use cheap electricity to charge the battery (usually after midnight to 6 am). This ability to store energy allows most hybrid systems to be used as a backup power source even during power outages, similar to a home UPS system. Traditionally, the term “hybrid” refers to two sources of power generation, such as wind and solar, but more recently the term “hybrid solar” refers to the combination of solar energy and battery storage, rather than an isolated system connected to the grid. Hybrid systems, while more expensive due to the added cost of batteries, allow their owners to keep the lights on during grid outages and can even help reduce demand charges for businesses.
Advantages of Hybrid Solar Systems
● Stores solar or low-cost (off-peak) electricity.
● Allows for use of solar during peak hours (automatic use or load variation)
● Power available during grid outages or brownouts – UPS functionality
● Enables advanced power management (i.e. maximum shaving)
● Achieves energy independence
● Reduces grid power consumption (reduced demand)
● Maximizes use of clean energy
● Most scalable, future-proof home solar installation
Summary of the Differences Between On-Grid, Off-Grid, and Hybrid Planetary Systems There are several aspects to consider when choosing the best solar system for your requirements. People seeking total power freedom or those in remote areas may choose off-grid solar with or without battery storage. For the average consumer who wants to go green and reduce home electricity costs, the most cost-effective option is on-grid solar (given current market conditions). You are still attached to energy, but it is very plentiful. Be aware that you may run into some trouble if power outages are short and irregular. However, if you live in a wildfire-prone area or an area with a high threat of typhoons, a hybrid system may be worth considering. In an increasing number of cases, power companies are legally required to shut off power for long periods of time for public safety reasons. Those who rely on life support equipment may not be able to cope. The above is an analysis of the advantages of grid-connected solar systems, off-grid solar systems, and hybrid solar systems. Although hybrid solar systems have the highest cost, as lithium battery prices drop, it will become the most popular and most cost-effective system.
