Solar power offers many benefits to home and property owners, most notably a reduction in electricity costs and usage. However, there are other benefits that are dependent on the type of system you choose, and it is important to weigh the pros and cons of grid-tied solar power systems and off-grid systems, in order to select the solar power option that is right for you.
Grid-tied solar power systems are the most common type of solar electric system in the United States. This type of system is attached, or “tied” to the existing electrical grid. Electricity that is generated by the solar array flows freely back to the grid, and to the utility company. The household or commercial property that benefits from the system is credited for the electricity generated by the solar panels. As long as the solar array generates more electricity than the household consumes, the electricity will be free. If the household or business consumes more electricity than is generated, it will be billed for only the excess consumption.