An on-grid solar system connects to the public electricity grid, allowing you to use solar power and sell excess energy back to the utility company. In contrast, an off-grid solar system operates independently with battery storage, ideal for remote areas without grid access. Below, we'll break down these systems in simple terms, covering key aspects like costs, benefits, and differences to help you choose the best option.
1. What Is On Grid Solar System?
An on grid solar system, also called a grid-tied or solar on grid system, links directly to your local utility grid. It uses solar panels to generate electricity and feeds any surplus power back to the grid for credits (through net metering). It doesn't require batteries, which reduces costs. The key components include inverters and grid connections.
- ▲ How on grid solar system works: Panels → Inverter → Grid/Home.
- ▲ On grid solar system diagram shows this flow.
Hybrid on grid solar systems add batteries for backup during outages, merging grid benefits with storage. On grid solar panel systems cut electricity bills during grid failures but remain operational.
2. What Is Off Grid Solar System?
An off grid solar system, or solar off grid system, functions without any grid connection, relying solely on solar panels and batteries for 24/7 power. This off grid solar power system stores energy in batteries (like lithium LiFePO4) for use at night or on cloudy days, making it perfect for remote locations.
- ▲ Off grid solar power systems store energy for nighttime/cloudy days.
- ▲ Off-grid solar system packages with batteries ensure self-sufficiency.
When selecting the best off grid solar system, consider size, battery capacity, and efficiency—options range from compact solar panel off grid systems for cabins to larger off grid solar electric systems for homes.
An off grid solar PV system uses photovoltaic tech for high output, while solar power off grid systems emphasize renewable independence.
For reliability, off the grid solar system setups often include generators as backups.
3. What Is Difference Between On Grid And Off Grid
Here's a quick comparison of on grid vs off grid solar systems:
|
Feature |
On-Grid Solar System | Off-Grid Solar System |
| Grid Connection |
Required (no power during outages) |
Independent (solar power off the grid) |
|
Batteries |
Not needed (except hybrid on grid) |
Essential (off grid solar system packages with batteries) |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher (batteries increase price) |
| Reliability | Depends on grid stability | Self-sufficient (solar systems off grid) |
| Best For | Urban areas (on grid solar panel system) |
Remote locations (off the grid solar system) |
Hybrid solutions (e.g., off grid on grid solar system) merge both technologies for balanced flexibility. Choose on grid solar power systems for savings or off grid solar PV systems for total independence.
4. YouthPOWER Cost-Effective Hybrid & Off Grid Battery Storage
As a leading Chinese lithium battery storage manufacturer with 20 years of expertise, YouthPOWER LiFePO4 Solar Battery Factory delivers certified hybrid and off-grid solar battery systems built for longevity. Our products meet strict UL1973, IEC62619, CE-EMC and UN38.3 standards, ensuring safety and reliability for global projects. With proven success across diverse client installations, we offer comprehensive OEM & ODM support.
Seeking distributors and partners worldwide to expand renewable energy access. Contact us to discuss collaboration opportunities: sales@youth-power.net