Off Grid Systems

Living “off the grid” (OTG) simply means not being dependent on the everyday utilities (gas, electricity, sewerage & water), which most of us take for granted. When you live off the grid you’re essentially self-sufficient, and able to take care of your own utility needs and live in a more sustainable manner.

Yes, you can go off-grid with solar panels. An off-grid solar system is a stand-alone system that generates electricity using solar panels and stores any excess energy not consumed immediately onsite in batteries. This type of system is generally only advisable for people who live in remote areas where there is little to no access to the electrical grid. 

Whilst off-grid solar systems are self-sufficient, meaning they can provide electricity for your home or business without being connected to the electricity grid, there are some important things to consider.  

Off-grid solar refers to a system where the solar panels aren’t connected to the electricity grid, meaning it generates and stores electricity independently from utility companies. This type of system is typically used in remote areas where there’s no access to the electrical grid, or by individuals who no longer want to be reliant on the grid. 

Grid solar, on the other hand, refers to a system where the solar panels are connected to the electrical grid. This type of system generates electricity and feeds any excess back into the grid, allowing the homeowner to receive bill credits or payments for the excess power they produce. This type of system is typically used by households who have access to the electrical grid and want to use solar energy to lower their energy bills. 

The key difference between off-grid and grid solar is the level of dependence on the electrical grid. Off-grid systems operate independently, while grid-tied systems are connected to and interact with the grid. 

Off-grid systems also require a larger initial investment, which can be beyond the budget of most households. Cutting the cord to the energy grid also comes with its own challenges, the biggest being the possibility of going without power for periods of time – there’s no back-up when your solar system isn’t generating electricity and your stored battery energy is exhausted.  

The number of solar panels required to run a house off-grid depends on several factors, including:  

• The average daily electricity consumption. 
• The type and efficiency of the solar panels. 
• The geographical location of the house, and the amount of available sunlight. 

The exact number of panels you’ll need will vary depending on the specific energy needs of your household. Out team of experts can conduct a detailed assessment of your energy needs and provide a customised solution for your needs. 

Importantly, the number of panels required is only one consideration. You’ll also need to ensure you have ample battery storage, as not only will you need to generate enough solar energy to meet your daytime energy needs, but you’ll also need to have plenty stored away to meet your needs when the sun isn’t shining. Allowing for back-up energy to be stored in order to get through extended periods with reduced solar, such as winter which can be a dark/wet period, or even during cyclone season if you live in the tropics.

Undertaking regular maintenance of your batteries and panels is also essential. You’ll need to ensure your setup is functioning properly, and optimally, to ensure you’re storing enough energy to meet your needs.

It’s not all or nothing when it comes to solar – you don’t need to go off-grid to reduce your reliance on it. Installing a solar battery without cutting your connection to the grid strikes a great happy medium, allowing you to store excess energy generated by your solar panels for use when the sun isn’t shining. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing you’ve got a reliable source of energy, even during power outages or when the grid is down. 

And if you have a battery, connecting it to a Virtual Power Plant gives you the opportunity to increase your energy independence and earn rewards at the same time.Invest in a quality solar battery can help you take control of your energy future.