Grid-Tied Systems
A grid-tied solar system is one that is connected to the electrical power grid. The system is reliant on this grid to produce usable solar energy and funnels the excess energy for net metering, clean energy credits, or later usage. This can be a cost effective solution for those looking to make the switch to solar power.
AC-Coupled Systems
AC Coupling uses your existing system to feed power into a battery-based inverter/charger to charge the battery bank. You keep your existing system exactly as is, except you add a battery-based inverter/charger and battery bank. The battery bank doesn't need to be huge, just large enough to run your critical loads during a power outage, the well pump, fridge, furnace system's electrical components, a few lights, and charger for your cell phone.
Off-Grid Systems
An off-grid solar system is designed for the power needs of mid to large size homes. Unlike grid-tied solar systems, off-grid systems have no connection to the utility grid and must make all the electricity necessary to power your home.
Off-grid solar systems operate from the stored energy in a battery bank. Solar panels generate power to charge the battery bank. Your off-grid solar system must be sized properly to meet your daily power needs and replace the stored energy pulled from the battery bank.
