Solar systems come in three main types. Choosing the right one depends on your goals: lowering your bill, having backup during power cuts, or both.
On-grid (grid-tied)
An on-grid system works alongside the grid. During the day, your panels supply your home or business and the grid fills any gap. There are no batteries, which keeps the cost lower.
The trade-off: for safety reasons, a standard on-grid system usually switches off when the grid goes down, so it does not give you backup during power cuts.
Off-grid
An off-grid system is not connected to the grid at all. Panels charge batteries, and the batteries power your appliances. It suits places without a reliable grid connection, but the system has to be sized carefully so the batteries can cover your needs, including cloudy days.
Hybrid
A hybrid system combines both. It uses solar first, stores energy in batteries, and can draw from the grid when needed. When the grid goes down, it can keep your essential appliances running from the batteries.
Which one is right for you?
- Mainly want to reduce daytime electricity costs? On-grid may be enough.
- Need power during load-shedding? Consider hybrid.
- No reliable grid connection? Off-grid may be the answer.
Tell us which appliances you need during a power cut, and we will help you choose the right type and size.