What is the difference between an off grid system and an on grid system?
The main difference between off-grid and on-grid systems stems from the production and use of electrical energy.
1. Off-Grid System:
- Off-grid systems are self-sufficient systems that are not connected to the electrical grid.
- These systems are generally used in remote areas or places where the electrical grid does not reach.
- In off-grid systems, electricity is produced using renewable energy sources such as solar panels, wind turbines or generators.
- The electricity produced is stored in storage systems such as batteries and retrieved for later use.
- Off-grid systems provide independence but may impose limitations on electricity supply when there is not enough solar or wind energy.
2. On-Grid (Grid-Tied) System:
- On-grid systems are systems that are connected to the electrical grid and consume electricity from this grid.
- In these systems, electricity is produced using solar panels or other renewable energy sources, but the generated electricity is fed directly to the grid.
- In on-grid systems, the energy produced meets the electricity needs of the home or workplace, but when excess energy is produced, this energy can be sold back to the grid.
- In these systems, since they are connected to the grid, there are no power outages and the consumer always has access to electricity.
- On-grid systems are used to reduce energy costs and reduce environmental impacts.
In general, off-grid systems offer independence and the flexibility to provide electricity in remote areas, while on-grid systems provide reliability and constant access to electricity supply. Both are preferred according to different usage scenarios and needs.