Major Difference Between Grid-tied PV Inverter And Regular Inverter

Solar energy has become increasingly popular due to its environmental benefits and cost advantages. While both inverters are used to power homes and businesses, they have several key differences that should be considered when choosing the best inverter for your needs. 

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What is a Grid Tied Type of PV Inverter?

It is a type of inverter that is connected to the power grid and is used to convert the DC from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels into AC electricity used in homes and businesses. The inverter is also connected to a controller that monitors the home or business’s energy usage and adjusts the solar panels’ energy output accordingly.

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What is a Regular Inverter?

A regular inverter is a type of inverter that is not connected to the power grid and is used to convert DC electricity into AC electricity. Regular inverters are used in off-grid applications, such as remote cabins or boats, and are not typically used in homes or businesses.

Significant Difference Between The Two Types of Inverters

Below mentioned are some of the significant differences between the two types of inverters:

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1. Grid Connection

The most apparent difference between a Grid-tied type of PV inverter and a regular inverter is that the former is connected to the power grid while the latter is not. This means that a Chint Grid-tied PV Inverter can draw power from the grid when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity. On the other hand, a regular inverter is not connected to the grid and thus must rely solely on solar panels for its electricity.

Grid-tied types of PV inverters also can sell excess energy back to the grid. This is often referred to as net metering, allowing homeowners with Grid-tied type of PV inverters to receive credit on their electric bills for their energy. 

Grid-tied type of PV inverters are typically more efficient than regular inverters and are also more reliable. This is because they are connected to the grid and can draw extra electricity if needed. This means there is less risk of a blackout or other power interruption due to a lack of energy.

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2. Cost

Another significant difference between Grid-tied type of PV inverters and regular inverters is the cost. Grid-tied types of PV inverters are typically more expensive than regular inverters since they require additional components such as a controller and connection to the power grid. On the other hand, regular inverters are typically less expensive since they do not require additional components or grid connection.

Grid-tied types of PV inverters are more expensive than regular inverters due to the additional components and connection to the power grid required. However, these components and connections provide the capability to send excess energy back to the power grid, allowing for the possibility of net metering. 

Additionally, the Grid-tied type of PV inverter can disconnect itself from the power grid when the grid voltage is too low, preventing damage to the inverter. This feature is not available with regular inverters. Therefore, the additional cost associated with Grid-tied type of PV inverters is justified by their additional features and capabilities.

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3. Efficiency

Grid-tied types of PV inverters are typically more efficient than regular inverters since they can draw power from the grid when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity. On the other hand, regular inverters must rely solely on solar panels for their electricity and thus are not as efficient.

Efficiency is an essential factor to consider when choosing an inverter for a grid-tied photovoltaic system. Grid-tied types of PV inverters are designed to allow the user to draw power from the grid when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity, thus increasing their efficiency. 

On the other hand, regular inverters have to rely solely on the electricity produced by the solar panels and are, therefore, less efficient than Grid-tied type of PV inverters. This is why it is essential to consider the efficiency of the inverter when choosing a system for a grid-tied photovoltaic system.

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Conclusion

When choosing an inverter for your home or business, it is essential to consider the differences between Grid-tied type of PV and regular inverters. Grid-tied types of PV inverters are typically more expensive but offer greater efficiency due to their ability to draw power from the grid when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity. 

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