Off-grid systems, also known as standalone systems, operate independently of the main electrical grid and are primarily designed to work with a battery bank. These systems provide backup power through batteries during periods when solar generation alone is insufficient. They are particularly suited for rural areas lacking grid access or experiencing frequent and prolonged grid outages.
Because off-grid systems are standalone, they must be meticulously designed to accommodate each load's requirements and operational hours. Failure to account for these factors can lead to system overload and malfunction. Additionally, any future increase in load will necessitate system modifications if not initially considered during the design phase.
Off-grid systems tend to be more expensive to implement and maintain compared to on-grid systems. This is largely due to the costs associated with batteries, which have a limited lifespan and require periodic replacement. As such, off-grid systems are generally recommended only when reliable backup power is a primary consumer concern.
Why choose Off-grid
Independence and Self-Sufficiency: Off-grid solar systems allow you to be completely independent from the main electrical grid. This is advantageous in remote locations where grid access is limited or unreliable, providing consistent electricity without relying on external infrastructure.
Reliable Backup Power: Off-grid systems offer reliable backup power during grid outages or disruptions. This is particularly important in areas prone to frequent power cuts or where maintaining continuous electricity supply is critical.
Flexibility in Location: They can be installed in remote or rural areas. Off-grid systems enable homeowners, businesses, and communities to access electricity regardless of their location.
How does it work?
In an off-grid system, the energy generated by the PV panels is used to charge the battery and is also converted from DC to AC at the inverter level to power the loads. If the grid is available, the inverter can also draw support from the grid during periods of low generation, such as rainy or cloudy weather, to charge the batteries.
This setup ensures that the system remains functional and provides continuous electricity, even when solar energy production is insufficient due to weather conditions.
Components
- PV Panels: Photovoltaic panels absorb sunlight and convert it into Direct Current (DC).
- Inverter: Converts DC power into Alternating Current (AC) to power household loads, as all appliances run on AC.
- Batteries: Storage devices that store energy for use when solar generation or grid power is unavailable.
- DCDB (DC Distribution Board): Includes MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) and SPD (Surge Protection Device) to protect against current and voltage spikes on the DC side of the system.
- ACDB (AC Distribution Board): Includes MCB, SPD, and fuse to safeguard against voltage and current spikes on the AC side of the system.
- Battery Protection Device: Includes MCB or fuse to protect batteries from current and voltage spikes.
- Electrical Panel: The existing panel in the customer's premises where solar power is connected to the household circuit for consumption and potential export.
- Lightning Arrestors: Protect PV panels and the system from damage caused by lightning strikes.
- Earthing: Safely dissipates surge currents resulting from lightning or within the system.