Learning About Energy Use

For a few months after we purchased a home, we were really frustrated with our monthly power bill. We couldn't believe how much it was costing, but we knew that it couldn't be right. We started evaluating various ways to save money, and it occurred to us that doing something about our energy use needed to be a top priority. We focused on keeping the lights off during the day and eliminating phantom power use, and it helped us to reduce our spending. Now I can honestly say that our home is energy efficient, and it makes me so happy. Check out this blog for more information.

Choosing the Best Solar Panels and Equipment for a Grid-Tied Energy System Without Storage

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When you are considering an investment in solar panels, there are a lot of options. First, you will have to decide if you just want panels or want to invest in energy storage batteries. The panels alone can be a great investment without batteries, but you want to have the system designed correctly. The following information will help with choosing the right panels, converters, and controls that are needed for grid-tied systems:

What Are Grid-Tied Solar Energy Systems?

First, you want to know what a grid-tied solar panel system is. These are systems that are tied to the electrical grid of utility companies. The grid-tied system can be used for the purpose of connecting to the grid when your panels are not producing electricity. This is done with a controller or switch that is installed with the panels. The switch allows the electrical wiring in your home to connect to the grid when needed or to use the panels when they are productive. You may also use a grid-tied system if you have enough solar energy to sell back to the utility company.

The Best Panels for Installation of Grid-Tied Systems

Choosing the right type of panels is one of the most important steps in planning for your solar energy system. There are various options for panels that you can have installed for a grid-tied system, including:

  • Monocrystalline panels that provide better performance but cost more
  • Polycrystalline panels that are more affordable but have a lower performance rating
  • Thin-film panels that provide a versatile and durable option but can be expensive and less productive

These options can also be supplemented with exterior lighting that is independently powered by smaller panels. The exterior solar lighting can help you get more gains from your investment in renewable energy.

Options for the Converters Grid-Tied Systems Need

The converters are another important component of a grid-tied system without batteries. To ensure your system is reliable and productive, you want to choose the best converter options. Some of the options to consider for the inverters that are installed with the panels include:

  • String inverters tied to a string of panels (the most practical solution)
  • Microinverters that are connected to individual panels (the most reliable and productive solution)
  • Central converter located near the switch for the entire system (the most affordable solution)

The converters transform the DC current from panels to the alternating current used by your home's electrical wiring.

Installation of the Switches That Connect Electrical Systems

One of the most important components of a grid-tied solar system is the switch. This is the device that connects to the grid when the panels are not producing energy. Today, there are also options for switches that are automatic and have integrated monitoring solutions. Options to consider for the switch you have installed with your panels include:

  • A solar control panel that connects to the main service to your home
  • Switches that are integrated into breakers to power individual circuits
  • Controller switches that connect to the grid and monitor solar panel performance

The switches can be automated to connect and disconnect from the grid when needed. They can also be programmed to use the panels or current during times when the electricity rates are different. This can help maximize the economic benefits of your investment in solar panels.

The panels you have installed on your home can be a great investment to reduce your energy costs. Contact a solar panel service for help designing the energy system for your home with panels, converters, and switches.

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8 April 2021