The term residential solar power is applied to solar power used in homes. Commercial solar power would be a term used to describe solar power being used in business or could also be used to apply to the electricity generated by solar power and then sold.
There are two types of systems that describe residential solar power:
1. Off grid
2. Grid tied or net metering
Off Grid system
An off grid system is just that, off grid. It is not hooked up to the electric utility system. There are no power lines running to the house.
Off grid systems require a battery system for back up power and to supply electricity at night. During the day when the sun is shining onto the photovoltaic array the excess energy is stored in the batteries. This surplus energy is then converted into electricity and released into the system by the batteries.
A generator is also a common component for the off grid solar power system. If the sun is not shining for several days then the generator can charge the batteries instead of using the sun’s power.
Grid Tied or Net Metering system
In a grid tied or net metering home, the power lines are still connected to the electric utility system. The electric utility system acts as a large battery array. During the day when the sun is shining the electric meter will spin backwards. Then at night or during periods of high need the meter will spin forwards.
Net metering is administered differently by each electric utility company so consult with your electric company for it’s rules and regulations.
Solar power is a long term, renewable energy source. It frees you from dependence on a utility company, frees you from dependence on foreign governments, and frees you from having to write a check every month for electricity. Residential solar power is the wave of the future.
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Tags: residential solar power, solar power
