Ongrid vs hybrid solar energy systems: What you need to know

With solar energy getting as popular as it is right now, especially with energy cost inflation affecting people globally, it's high time a general understanding of the many components of solar energy equipment becomes prevalent. While there are mainly three types of solar energy systems, we’ll only be looking at the differences between two of the most common types: hybrid solar energy systems and on-grid solar energy systems. Since an inverter is essentially the central processing unit of a modern solar energy system, an inverter will define what system you need to have, based on your requirements.

For the best solar energy solutions, whether your requirements are for on-grid solar energy solutions or hybrid solar energy systems, the best option you’ve got in Pakistan is with RS Energy. With our comprehensive selection of complete solar energy solutions designed for maximum solar energy efficiency, you can get rid of grid dependency and instead work with renewable energy that energizes you without any blackout at all.

Let's start by looking at both on-grid and hybrid solar energy solutions, and how RS Energy can help you get the best.

On-grid vs Hybrid Solar Energy Systems: The Particulars

On-grid solar energy systems, as their name implies, are connected to the grid and require power input from there to operate. With a hybrid solar energy system, grid input is not imperative; the system will operate without feed-in from the grid power. Let's look at some other differences between the two, and work our way to understanding what both system configurations offer to consumers.

Grid Reliance

As stated beforehand, on-grid systems require grid input for startup. Not just startup, but constant operation is required. In short, they cannot work without the grid. Whereas hybrid solar energy solutions, while connected to the grid, can operate without input from the grid.

Battery Connection

For on-grid systems, battery connection and storage, in general, is not imperative. As the name implies, energy is not stored, rather fed into the grid. With hybrid solar energy systems, batteries can be used or not used. When connected, hybrid systems will store and use energy from the battery; if not, the inverter will simply start feeding back into the grid.

Net-Metering Availability

Net-metering is available for both. For on-grid systems, the inverter is supposed to come with net-metering enabled since the inverter is supposed to feed back to the grid. With hybrid solar energy solutions, again, net-metering can be done or not done; in the latter case, the unused energy will be stored in the battery for subsequent usage.

Reliability

While both are reliable enough, they both have their shortcomings. With on-grid solutions, the system goes offline during a blackout and obviously can't be used. Whereas the hybrid solar energy system stays online, however, the additional batteries and their maintenance can become a hassle sometimes; however, not always.

Maintenance

On-grid solar solutions are usually maintenance-free, requiring only the yearly check, since the operation isn’t all that intensive. However, with hybrid solar energy systems, given the nature of their operation and intensity, maintenance is frequent.

Usage

On-grid solar energy solutions are an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications, owing to them being connected to the grid. For hybrid solar solutions, residential applications are more apt since the battery costs for commercial and industrial applications might be too much.

Price

On-grid solar energy system prices are considered economical since they are pretty lightweight and no additional costly equipment is needed. With hybrid solar energy systems, pricing is more expensive, since the inverter itself is very resource-intensive and additional equipment like heavy-load batteries is needed.

All in all, while both solar energy solutions have their own set of benefits and issues, what eventually determines what system is made for you is going to be your own requirements. If you want a solar energy solution that operates even during blackouts, you’d want to go with a hybrid solar solution. However, with on-grid solar solutions, you get additional benefits, so always go with what your requirements are.

The Best Hybrid and On-Grid Solar Energy Solutions in Pakistan

With RS Energy, you have the choice of the best hybrid solar solutions in Pakistan and the best on-grid solar solutions in Pakistan. As the top solar company in Pakistan, offering complete solar systems and comprehensive solar solutions designed for maximum efficiency, RS Energy is your partner for energy independence. Follow our three-step plan for your customized and personalized solar energy solution that takes into account your requirements and provides you with a solution that will energize your premises for the foreseeable future. Consider it an investment for the ages.