What Does Off-Grid Solar Mean?
For the most part all solar power systems operate in much the same way. Solar panels take power from the sun and deliver it to either a battery or a solar inverter so it can be converted to AC power. This AC power is then used by your home or office just the same as it would if delivered by the traditional grid.
The difference between on and off-grid solar systems is that the off-grid is completely separated from the traditional electricity grid. This means the solar system needs to be able to generate enough power to not only supply the home’s power needs at any given moment but also store additional power away for use when there is no sunlight.
This means you will never see another power bill again, nor will you be subject to blackouts. The potential savings over time can be incredibly drastic but the need for more solar batteries than a normal on-grid setup means there is a higher cost of entry. While you will not be able to take advantage of feed-in tariffs and the like, the fact you are not paying a power bill will more than likely offset this loss of revenue.
Having an off-grid home can be a choice but for some there is no alternative. Those in very remote areas with little or no infrastructure are reliant on off-grid systems to give them the power they need in day to day life. This is an often overlooked aspect of the energy market that we feel needs more attention.
As populations increase we need to look for places other than the coast to settle populations and off-grid power gives people the ability to make a home anywhere they want. It also makes it possible for remote communities to have a regular supply of power.
