How Grid-tie PV Systems Work

Grid-tied systems use PV modules to integrate solar electric power with existing electric utility power. As a grid-tie system generates electricity, it sends energy back to the utility power grid.

Grid-tie systems participate in net and production metering programs. The utility company will pay you to produce energy for them, and the energy you produce counts against the energy used by your home or business.

• Batteryless grid-tie systems are the most popular type of PV grid-tie system; they are simple and efficient, providing power to residential and commercial spaces.

• Battery-based grid-tie systems employ batteries as a part of grid-tie system architecture. The batteries provide backup power in the event of an outage, serving as an UPS. Adding battery capacity will reduce overall system efficiency by 10%. They require periodic maintenance, which may be performed by an informed system user.