“On or Off the Grid?” That is the Question.

Written by Simon Boone

Imagine the web of power lines stretching and intersecting across the continent. They begin at large power generation plants and end at the electric meters on our homes. It’s this web that we refer to as the “grid”. The grid has been getting a lot of press lately; it’s old, it’s strained; it delivers “dirty” coal or nuclear generated electricity into our homes and business. Who wouldn’t want to be disconnected from this mess?

In Canada, solar generated electricity has a definite “off-grid” stigma to it, but did you know that throughout the world more than 80% of solar electric technology is grid connected? This means that solar electric modules are used with special devices called “grid-tie inverters” to create utility grade power. This power is then used in parallel with the grid power to meet our electrical needs.
 

• Being grid connected is the most efficient use of a solar electric array. Grid-tie inverters are extremely efficient and when you are grid-connected there is always a place to send your solar electricity.
  
  
• If you are grid connected, you can eliminate your need for batteries. The grid becomes your “battery”, supplying you with power when the sun doesn’t shine or if you are running a bit short.
  
  
• Grid-tied solar electric systems are truly maintenance-free. No moving parts, no batteries to wear-out or maintain, and solar modules last for decades.
   

• With no batteries, the system will take up very little space within your home. In some cases, the system can even be mounted entirely outdoors.
  
  

• In Ontario, you can earn $0.42/kWh from the Ontario Power Authority for your generation. Not just for your net energy exports, but for everything you generate. This translates to a payback period of 15-25 years.
  
  
• Installing a grid-tied solar electric system helps the grid. More grid-tied solar electric systems mean more distributed electricity generation and this takes strain off the grid, especially during peak power consumption periods - for example, during hot days in the summer (when air-conditioners are puffing, solar modules are producing).
  

• The biggest downfall is that without batteries, if the grid fails you will be without power, even on a bright sunny day. Battery back-up is an option if you live in an area subject to frequent outages
  
  

• You will still be connected to the grid and therefore your local electrical distribution company. If you have a severe distaste for your electrical utility it may not go away.
  
  

• If you are truly an independent soul, a grid-tied system may not satisfy your need for independence.
  
  

• If your need for electricity is far from the reaches of the electric grid, it may not be practical to extend it. In this case, being off-grid may prove to be the most cost effective choice.