Thanks to recent technological advances, which have made large-scale electricity storage economically viable, a combination of solar generation and storage holds the promise of cheaper, greener, and more reliable off-grid power in the future.
Off-grid solar can also be a solution for individuals and families who want to pursue a more environmentally-friendly off-grid life centred on self-sustainability and energy independence. It also frees households from electricity bills and gives them a greater degree of energy independence.
Off grid solar systems will need to be created using custom off grid solar kits designed to ensure you have everything – charge controller, battery backup, battery cables, etc. On-grid solar energy systems – also known as grid-tied systems – provide a reliable power supply that reduces dependence on the National Grid.
With an off-grid system, the inverter also provides your home with power but is connected to a solar battery bank that stores solar energy for maximum power generation and the storage of excess energy. A power generator may also be used as a backup.
While storage value has been identified in many cases, three use cases are essential when it comes to off-grid systems: power quality, power reliability, and balancing support. Indeed, energy storage can enable time shifting at the time of excess low cost generation and the release of energy in times of peak demand [7 ].
A major advantage of a completely off-the-grid solar energy system is that you won’t receive any electricity bills at all. With a grid-tied system, the electricity company enforces standing charges even when you’re not using any of their energy. This can cost you about £200 a year just to