On-Grid PV Systems
An on-grid PV system is commonly referred as a grid-tied system. This system requires a connection from the power grid and it works in synchronization with the utility. In case of power outage from the utility side, this system stops working. As compared to hybrid and off-grid systems, this system don’t have battery banks for energy storage. Its main components are solar panels, grid-tied inverter and bi-directional meter. Figure below shows the basic structure of on-grid system.
1. Solar Panels:
The solar panels collect the sunlight and converts it in to DC power. There are different types of solar panels based on the design, technology and power capacity in the market. Each has specific characteristics and are used in specific applications based on the system requirements.
2. Inverter:
The inverter converts the DC power from the solar panels in the AC power that is further utilized to run different electrical appliances. When the load requirements are fulfilled, the excess power is exported to the power utility. In such system, the utility acts as battery and all the excess power is fed over there and it is known banking of energy. However, in the absence of solar energy at night time, the energy is imported back from the utility to fulfill load demands. Also in case of less solar generation due to cloudy weather, the utility will provide the necessary power required to fulfill the load demands.
3. Bi-directional Meter:
As compared to the traditional energy meters that measures only the number of units imported from the utility, the bi-directional meter measures the exchange units between the utility and PV system. It has the capability of to measure the following:
· The total amount of energy imported
· The total amount of energy exported
· The net energy difference between the energy imported and energy exported.
This system has many advantages in terms of easy maintenance, reduced electricity bills and better return of investment (ROI) due to absence of the batteries. However, this system don’t work in the absence of power grid even the solar power is available in the day time. Therefore, it is recommended for places with less than 2 hours or no power outage during the day.
Tecophase has a dedicated team having in-depth knowledge to design and install a solar system as per the customer needs for residential as well as commercial applications. Our team will provide an appropriate advice related to the overall system and components based on your needs. The experts at Tecophase will ensure that the system will be completely tailored to meet the customer requirements.
