Inverter solar power systems convert solar radiation into energy that humans can use. There are three types of inverters on the market: grid-connected inverters, off-grid inverters, and hybrid inverters. JOG International will examine the advantages and disadvantages of the most common system, the hybrid solar inverter, and compare it to an off-grid solar inverter in this blog.
How A Hybrid Inverter Works
To convert AC to DC, a typical inverter with solar panels requires an additional inverter. A hybrid converter eliminates the need for a separate battery inverter in a solar panel system. It can function as an inverter, converting energy from solar panels into electricity, as well as a battery. Although hybrid inverters are designed with storage in mind, a professional can install one without batteries. Some people prefer to install a hybrid inverter before adding batteries to their system.
Pros of Hybrid Inverters
Constant Power Supply
A hybrid solar energy system with storage batteries linked to an inverter can provide continuous power. If a power outage occurs unexpectedly, the batteries will function as an inverter and provide backup power.
Many people believe that if they install a solar system, they will never run out of power if there is a power outage. In most cases, however, this is not the case because traditional grid-tied solar inverters cut off power production from your solar panel system during power outages for safety reasons.
Combining a hybrid inverter with batteries is one way to ensure you have backup solar power during a grid outage. Some hybrid models can operate both on and off the grid. It's advantageous because it provides solar power for your home or business even if the power goes out.
Use Of Natural Resources To Their Full Potential
On bright sunny days, a battery system linked to a hybrid system ensures maximum utilization of the abundant solar radiation. As a result, such a system makes the best use of solar radiation by storing energy on sunny days and using it on cloudy days.
Low Maintenance Cost
Another advantage is that the system is long-term cost-effective. Although the initial investment is high, you will save money in the long run because you will not have to pay for fuel (as with generators) and these systems do not require frequent maintenance.
Coordinated Monitoring
When you have a hybrid solar inverter, all of the electricity you use for your home, whether it is sent to the grid or stored in the battery, is converted by a single component. The procedure enables centralized monitoring, which allows you to monitor both the solar panel system and battery performance on a single platform.
Cons of Hybrid Inverters
Expensive Installation
The addition of a hybrid inverter and batteries to your existing system is likely to cost more than installing a grid-connected solution.
If you have frequent power outages or want to use a battery to save money on your utility bill, the extra cost may be worth it. If your power grid is reliable in your area and your utility company offers a favorable net metering incentive, a traditional grid-tied solar system may be an affordable option.
Battery Life is Limited
The lifespan of most battery models ranges from seven to fifteen years. This means you'll have to buy batteries on occasion or keep one on hand in case the battery in use dies in the middle of a blackout.
Qualifications and Certificates are Required
The hybrid solar inverters, as one of the appliances closely related to people's lives, should obtain the necessary certificates of conformity. The submitted test certificate must meet the minimum requirements for capacity testing, ampere-hour efficiency testing, watt-hour efficiency testing, and self-discharge testing.
Are Off-Grid Inverters Right for You?
In general, an off-the-grid (OTG) system and lifestyle are intended to help people function without the assistance of remote infrastructures such as an electrical grid. Off-grid can refer to a stand-alone power system or microgrids, which are typically used to provide electricity to a smaller community.
Off-grid systems are frequently required in remote areas that are too far from the local electricity grid, and must therefore be designed to generate enough power throughout the year and have enough battery capacity to meet the requirements of the premises - even in winter when there is less sunlight. Because of the additional cost of batteries, off-grid systems are more expensive than on-grid systems. However, as battery costs continue to fall, there is growing interest in off-grid systems in cities and towns.
Pros of Off-Grid Inverters
Complete Energy Independence
You will be completely self-sufficient in terms of energy. Being disconnected from the grid means being free of the risk of power outages or fluctuating electricity bills. Because you generate your own electricity, you have a lot of freedom if your energy needs aren't too high.
Remote Power Sources
Off-grid solar provides a way to power remote areas where utility power is either unavailable or prohibitively expensive to install power lines. This option allows you to live more independently and power vacation homes or cabins located in remote areas.
Most Eco-Friendly Option
Another advantage of going off-grid with your solar project is that it is the most energy-efficient option. By generating your own power, you are sourcing at the hyper-local level and reducing the environmental impact of the utility company. Off-grid solar lets you see exactly what your power consumption is. Off-grid solar encourages energy efficiency because your available energy is limited.
No More Power Interruptions
Maintaining power during local utility outages gives you a sense of security and relief. Power outages, whether planned or unplanned, are always inconvenient. Because you have off-grid solar, your power will not go out with the rest of the neighborhood during a blackout. This is especially useful if you have medical devices or refrigerated items that require continuous power.
Cons of Off-Grid Inverters
Battery Upkeep
Batteries are not only an expensive initial investment, but they also require maintenance and have a limited lifespan. Typical batteries will last anywhere from 5 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.
No Backup Energy Source
Off-grid solar, as opposed to grid-tied solar, does not have the ability to tap into the grid for energy if needed. If the cloudy weather continues, you may expend all of your stored energy. Power would not be available with an off-grid system until the solar system had a chance to replenish itself.
Higher Initial Investment
While going off-grid reduces your monthly electricity bill, the initial investment for off-grid solar is higher than for grid-tied solar. Off-grid solar requires a battery bank in addition to the materials list for grid-connected solar. These batteries can account for up to 30-40% of the cost of an off-grid system's initial purchase price. This additional cost means that off-grid solar will cost you thousands of dollars more than grid-tied solar. Off-grid solar systems cannot sell energy back to the grid, so you will not be able to recoup your investment.
Final Thoughts
Off-grid and hybrid systems are both excellent ways to go solar, but the best option depends on your specific situation.
A hybrid solar inverter may be the best option for those who want to help the environment by using renewable energy. Although a hybrid solar inverter appears promising, understanding the benefits and drawbacks is essential before deciding whether or not to invest in one.
More hybrid solar energy systems are being installed in homes and businesses around the world, with both advantages and disadvantages. Because energy storage is essential for realizing the full potential of solar and wind power, it is also essential for a clean energy future.
If you're looking for a solar energy system that provides complete energy independence and can power remote, difficult-to-reach locations, one of these off-grid solar systems might be a good fit.
Our certified Solar Experts representatives can answer all of your questions about determining the best for your solar project needs. Contact us today for a free customized quote if you're ready to change the way you power your business and start saving more money with solar.