PV Systems can be Grid-tied, Off-grid or a Hybrid system.

Grid-tied systems connect your PV solar system directly into the utility grid via an inverter and utilizes Net-Metering. Net-Metering keeps track of your electricity usage versus electricity production. Your electric meter spins backward during times production is higher than usage, essentially putting electricity “in the bank” for times when production isn’t as high as usage. The meter spins forward when you use more electricity than your system produces.

Off-grid systems are utilized in homes or businesses that aren’t connected to a utility’s service. Off-grid systems use a different type of inverter, and typically require the addition of batteries to store power for use when there is no sun.

Hybrid systems can utilize multiple electricity producing technologies, such as solar/wind, solar/generator, solar/water, etc. These systems use some equipment that is different than grid-tied or off-grid systems.