2.058 kWp Grid-Tie solar system installation
2.058 kWp Kraaifontein Grid-Tie solar-powered system installation
Specialized Solar Systems residential solar team recently installed a 2.058 kWp Grid-Tie solar powered system in Kraaifontein, the Western Cape,e South Africa. The solar-powered system was designed and supplied by Specialized Solar System and the installation process took only 3 days to complete.
The 2.058 kWp Kraaifontein Grid-Tie solar-powered system consists of:
- 8 x 260W PV panels
- 3kW Fronius Grid-Tie single-phase inverter
Feeding into the Municipal Grid
Many municipalities across the Western Cape already have the rules and tariffs in place for feeding into the grid when installing a PV system.
How does a grid-tied solar-powered system work?
A grid-tied solar-powered electrical system is also known as a tied-to-the-grid, or grid-tie system and is a semi-autonomous electrical generation or grid energy storage system.
A grid-connected inverter converts DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity, which can then be used by the property/household. If a grid-connected system is producing more power than is being consumed, the surplus is fed into the main power grid (if your municipality allows it). Alternatively, when there is no solar panel generation or if it is inadequate, the inverter will allow grid power to compensate.
Advantages of Grid-Tie Systems
- A grid connection will allow you to save more money with solar panels through better efficiency rates and lower equipment and installation costs. Batteries and other stand-alone equipment are required for a fully functional off-grid solar system. This adds to costs as well as maintenance. Grid-tied solar systems are generally much cheaper and simpler to install.
- Homeowners can also put excess electricity back onto the utility grid instead of storing it themselves in batteries. This is done with special meters (if allowed in your area).
The utility grid is a virtual battery
Electricity should be used as it is generated. However, it can be temporarily stored as other forms of energy (e.g. chemical energy in batteries). Energy storage typically comes with significant costs.
The electric power grid is in many ways also a battery, without the need for maintenance or replacements, and with much better efficiency rates. In other words, more electricity (and more money) goes to waste with conventional battery systems.
Additional perks of being grid-tied include access to backup power from the utility grid in case extra power is required or if your solar system stops generating electricity for any reason. At the same time, you also help to mitigate the utility’s peak load.
Customers can contact Specialized Solar Systems for more information on purchasing a Grid-Tied solar system and for expert advice when choosing the correct solar system solution for all their electrical energy needs.