As solar power has become more commonplace, a certain type of system has started to become more and more popular among homeowners. This type of system is known as a hybrid solar system, sometimes referred to as “solar-plus-storage.” As this nickname implies, this type of solar power system combines solar power with solar storage, but there’s a bit more to it than that. Keep reading to learn what a hybrid solar system is and what benefits it can offer over other types of solar power systems.
What Is a Hybrid System?
A hybrid solar power system combines the best features of both grid-tied and off-grid solar power systems. Like a grid-tied system, it connects to the utility grid, but like an off-grid system, incorporates solar batteries as a backup energy source. This dual functionality allows you to store any excess solar power your panels generate for later use—like at night or during periods of cloudy weather. A hybrid system, through its advanced hybrid solar inverter, can switch seamlessly between all 3 power sources, using solar energy, stored battery power, and grid electricity as needed, depending on energy availability and demand.
What Are the Benefits of a Hybrid System?
A hybrid solar power system offers numerous benefits over grid-tied and off-grid systems. As described above, it truly does provide you with the best of both worlds. Here are just a few of the key benefits you’ll reap if you choose to go hybrid with your solar power:
- Energy Independence: One of the main perks of a hybrid system is the ability to store that excess solar power and use it when you need to. This reduces your dependence on the grid, gives you greater control over your energy use, and allows you to avoid peak utility hours.
- Backup Power in Outages: In the event of a grid outage, grid-tied solar power systems go down to protect utility workers from electrical shock from errant currents that could come from your system. This means that, even if the outage is on a sunny day, you’ll be without any solar power. With a backup power source, however, you can disconnect from the grid and use your own energy supply while the grid is down.
- Reduced Energy Costs: Solar power already reduces your energy costs, but going hybrid will cut them down even more. Because you don’t need to tap into the grid every night or any time it gets cloudy, you’ll be able to whittle your electricity bill down to practically nothing.
With hybrid solar inverters, solar users can take their solar power usage to the next level, and achieve greater independence in their energy production.
