Installing a photovoltaic (PV) home solar system can provide many benefits, including significant savings on electricity bills, reduced carbon emissions, and increased energy independence. PV solar systems generate electricity from sunlight and can be installed on rooftops or in open spaces, making them a versatile and efficient option for homeowners.

There are two popular types of residential PV solar systems: grid-tie and off-grid. A grid-tie system connects to the local power grid and allows homeowners to build credit on their power bill through a process called net metering. Net metering measures the amount of electricity that homeowners produce and feed into the grid, allowing them to offset their electricity usage when they draw power from the grid. This system doesn’t require expensive storage batteries, as excess energy produced during the day is fed into the grid and can be drawn back at night or on cloudy days.

On the other hand, an off-grid or stand-alone system provides complete electrical independence from the local power grid. This type of system requires deep-cycle batteries to store electricity for use when the sun isn’t shining, such as at night or during cloudy weather. A charge controller is also necessary to ensure that electricity flows smoothly between the solar panels and the batteries and prevents overcharging. An off-grid system is a good option for homeowners in remote locations or those seeking complete energy independence.

The main difference between grid-tie and off-grid systems is their level of independence from the power grid. A grid-tie system is connected to the local power grid and relies on it as a backup when solar panels aren’t producing enough energy. In contrast, an off-grid system relies solely on solar panels and batteries for power and doesn’t have the backup of the power grid.

Palm City homeowners should consider their location, energy needs, and budget before installing a photovoltaic solar system, so give Treasure Coast Solar a call for a free estimate.