Difference Between Grid-Tied, Off-Grid, and Hybrid AC and DC Coupled Solar Systems

📖 My book on Amazon: cleversolarpow...
In this video I describe the differences between on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid solar systems, along with a special focus on AC-coupled hybrid setups.
Whether you're new to solar or considering an upgrade, this comprehensive guide chooses the right system for your energy needs.
Discover the distinctions between grid-tied and off-grid solar systems. Grid-tied systems offer simplicity and cost savings, connecting directly to the electricity grid and benefiting from net metering to offset energy costs. However, their dependency on the grid means susceptibility to outages. In contrast, off-grid systems promise complete energy independence, ideal for remote locations, but require a significant upfront investment in batteries and a charge controller for energy storage.
Hybrid solar systems merge the best of both worlds, providing grid connectivity with the autonomy of battery backup. This segment delves into the hybrid inverter versus AC-coupled debate, showcasing how hybrid systems offer a versatile energy solution. With the ability to store excess energy in batteries for later use, hybrid systems excel in energy independence, making them a compelling choice for those weighing off-grid vs. on-grid solar systems.
Transitioning to a focus on AC-coupled battery storage, we share insights into converting a grid-tied system into a hybrid AC-coupled system. This setup enhances your solar investment by allowing the integration of battery storage without replacing your existing inverter, demonstrating the practical benefits and considerations of AC coupling in a hybrid solar context.
Drawing from personal experience, the video illustrates the transition to a hybrid AC-coupled system, maintaining the existing string inverter for a seamless blend of energy efficiency and reliability. We cover the operational dynamics of AC-coupled systems during grid outages and their role in ensuring continuous power supply to critical loads, underscoring the adaptability and resilience of hybrid systems.
Making an Informed Decision
What is better: off-grid or on-grid solar system? This video aims to equip you with the knowledge to navigate this question, highlighting how hybrid systems can offer a balanced solution with the advantages of both setups. For viewers intrigued by the potential of solar energy to transform their power usage, this guide is an essential watch.

[@cleversolarpower]

My book on Amazon: cleversolarpower.com/off-grid-solar-power-simplified 7 Free off-grid solar diagrams: cleversolarpower.com/free-diagrams/

[@handjgerhardt7391]

Great job explaining these differences. When I first got into solar, I had no idea that there were even choices. It is this information that allows people to make informed decisions instead of feeling like that must take the advice of the person selling solar door-to-door. They are typically selling grid-tied and charging far too much for those systems. Thank you for putting this work into the explanation.

[@cleversolarpower]

Thank you for your kind words! 🙏

[@nankokopoutlryhatchery]

Excellent teaching

[@yevgenygritsayenko1311]

I use on-grid invertor in combination with of-grid invertor (pure sine) when the main grid is off. Just need to use sensor on the wire from of-grid invertor, which controls used power, so limiter in on-grid invertor controls generated power to compensate load for of-grid inverter

[@simon359]

I have an off grid system that connects to the main panel with an inner connect switch. This is the best way, and you can avoid all the permits.

[@cleversolarpower]

With an inner connect switch you mean a transfer switch?

[@simon359]

@@cleversolarpower It’s just a little lever that keeps both switches from being activated at one time. That way there’s no backfeeding to the grid.

[@rabbitpumpkin8279]

@@cleversolarpower I think they meant interlock switch.

[@fishelectronics]

5:55 How is a microgrid formed without a main grid if the main grid is required to start the string inverter?

[@PKSDev]

Great know-how 👌🙏

[@bigrob1887]

Could you not just put a disconnect switch(s) on one or more of your solar strings to limit the current to the string inverter which would then fit within the parameters of the victrons ac input?

[@vaelectrical]

Thank you so much for this video

[@cleversolarpower]

My pleasure! Hopefully you learned something new.

[@vaelectrical]

@@cleversolarpower yes sir🙏🤸

[@SuperSayian86]

Great video! So if you are building a new system from scratch and you are aiming for a hybrid system/inverter there is no meaning to using AC coupling than DC coupling right?

[@sampsontendaimutsago1935]

Thanks for the wonderful explanation. Clear and informative. However I felt like it's not complete. How about marrying the calculation to practical examples. Sorry to sound amateurish but a question might arise where would I use 132v DC ( the 4 panels in series)? Where am I going to use 65v DC ( series parallel network)? To charge what? How about doing an example eg for the most popular voltage ranges of battery banks commonly in use ( the example of the 12V/24V SCC was excellent- but with no panel array example😢) 12/24/48 -this range would ( in my amateurish opinion) need array examples especially for lead acid clusters . Just a question : if for some reason you may end up requiring to use a stand alone charge controller for a lithium ion battery which requires battery management linkage ( BMS)- do stand alone charge controllers ( like the one you had in the video- or any other) have the port?

[@cleversolarpower]

I don't understand both of your questions. I recommend getting my book or watching my videos to get a basic understanding of off grid solar.

[@the-eye-is-watching]

Here in the Philippines I have had the off grid, the grid tie and now the hybrid. The utility company installed 2 meters to measure purchased vs. sold current. My first statement they switched the readings so they billed me for what I sold them. I am trying to have them install a bi functional meter in order to get a correct reading, as I am producing nearly 4x what I consume. It seems like a never ending battle when it comes to utility providers. My final recourse is to utilize the battery for night time consumption. and stop using the grid.

[@cleversolarpower]

I think sticking with your hybrid system is the way to go. The only thing that should happen is that they do the meters correctly. Good thing that you spotted it.

[@the-eye-is-watching]

@@cleversolarpowerThanks, dealing with the utility cooperative here is like pulling teeth. I refuse to pay for what I provide

[@Bite0fBread]

Our Philippine Utility cooperative are slow as shit when it comes new tech... They should be promoting alternative energy but its more like they don't like it..

[@the-eye-is-watching]

@@Bite0fBread It is hard to argue your point. The red tape involved in applying for a grid tie is a deterrent for anyone interested, not to mention that any surplus provided is not reimbursed.

[@vln222]

Our system is tied to the grid however we also have a battery back up. I'm curious when the power grid is hacked will this affect our home?

[@fbanda20]

I just want power after a hurricane here in Florida. Would a hybrid system be best?

[@floss1st]

I don't want to send power to the grid but use it as back up only when my batteries have got to a certain low level. Is this possible in the UK?

[@cleversolarpower]

Yes, check my video about load shedding.

[@floss1st]

@@cleversolarpower Okay, thanks.

[@managersamuel]

Hybrid inverter has inbuilt charge controller

[@cleversolarpower]

Video about different inverters incoming. This is about solar systems, not different inverters.

[@alextiong9335]

What about off grid system during sunny day, then night time or cloudy day auto switch to local grid..is that possible?

[@cleversolarpower]

If it's off grid, then you cannot switch to the local grid. If you mean on grid with backup power, check my video about load shedding 😉

[@alextiong9335]

@@cleversolarpower tq

[@pankajrajb]

Can you find a solution for Mobile tower base stations

[@cleversolarpower]

What is a 'mobile tower base station'?

[@johnaugsburger6192]

Thanks

[@Cainbantam]

This one is a bit harder to understand...