Solar grid tie systems
Solar grid tie systems are the answer both for persons who want to use solar power without completely switching to it, and also those who want the security and benefits of being tied to the grid.
It is not necessary to go completely off the grid, just because you would like to utilize solar power in your home. The truth is, even generating only enough solar energy to run just a few appliances helps – even a little helps lower your utility bills and your impact on the environment.
Of course, if you are generating only a small amount of solar power, it is important to keep your home tied to the grid – you will still need to use another source of power besides that of the sun.
When you use solar power and still keep your home on the grid, the power company, in effect, turns back your power meter. There are different processes of this net metering, and you ought to check with your power company to see what form they use. Some consider the power used for the entire year, while others go on a month to month basis. It is best to have the system net metered for the entire year, because it will create less energy during the winter months.
As you realize the benefits of solar power, you may decide to continue to build upon your solar grid tie system; and eventually, once you generated enough power, you may decide to go off the grid.
However, even homes that generate enough power to go off the grid may choose to stay on it – they may choose to continue with the benefits of solar grid tie systems. Such benefits include the reassurance of having power even during the winter months, and also the ability to sell back excess energy to the power company.
Before you decide to use a solar grid tie system, though, note that some power companies do not buy excess solar power, and many that do will only buy it only at wholesale cost.