Grid-Tied Systems
Grid-tied systems will harness the energy from the sun and/or wind and connect to your existing electrical system through a standard meter. This low maintenance system is the most efficient and can be used for large commercial projects. Home Energy can add an individual grid-tied system to your existing buildings or integrate it into new construction.
Home Energy worked with NIPSCO in Northern Indiana and AEP in Southern Michigan to install the first net metering solar systems in those areas, and subsequently helped both utilities create their net metering contracts.
Basics
A grid-tied system works with the public utility company to capture virtually all of the sun’s power. Solar panels can be mounted on a tracker that follows the sun from morning to evening, or on a roof or ground structure. (The photos below illustrate a variety of mounting options and applications.) Panels take rays from the sun and produce direct current, which is converted by an inverter into 120VAC alternating current that matches the public utility company’s power. The building is then provided with power. If enough power is not produced to meet the facility’s needs, for example during extended cloudy periods, additional power is purchased from the utility company. If the system produces more current than the building requires, the remainder is pushed back out onto the grid and purchased by the utility company.
Payback
A systems payback time depends on individual circumstances. Payback measures the years before capital is recovered through savings. PV and wind have long payback, but this is better than grid supplied energy, which has no payback at all! Users like that the system reduces the amount of electricity they purchase from the utility each month, as well as the fact that it consumes no fuel and generates no pollution. Primary fossil energy costs are rising, as well as residential electricity rates, and tax incentives and rebates have made it financially attractive for corporations and individuals to invest in renewable energy installations. See the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for comprehensive information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives and policies that are available in your area.
With integrity and expertise, you can count on Home Energy to advise you in finding the system best suited for your conditions.
Featured Grid-Tied Installations
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RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION
5.5 kW Grid-Tied Solar System & Solar Thermal
Bristol, IN
June 2009 -
COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION
McCormick Motors
6 kW Grid-Tied Solar System
Nappanee, IN
February 2009 -
EDUCATIONAL INSTALLATION
Museum of Science and Industry, Smart Home
2 kW Grid-Tied Solar System
Chicago, Illinois
August 2008 -
RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION
3.3 kW Grid-Tied Solar System
Lafayette, IN
January 2009
