Remote and Grid-Tie Solar Power - A Three Component System for Collecting & Using Solar Power

Parallel to the rising costs of both fossil fuel and conventional electrical power is the lowering cost of photovoltaic modules (solar cells). As a result, solar home kits have become more and more popular. Solar home kits are an easy way to buy all the essentials for setting up a home to tap into the free, unlimited, and emission-free energy source from the sun. A remote and grid-tie solar power system combines multiple solar arrays (groups of solar cell modules) with an inverter to make the electricity generated immediately usable in electric outlets or that can be sold as excess electricity to the power company. They are available with or without a battery bank for emergency or back-up use.

The three main components of a remote solar system and grid-tie solar power system are the solar modules, the roof or ground mounting for the modules, and the power inverter. The solar arrays are linked collections of solar cells. This is the component that converts sunlight and produces electricity. The mounting for the modules can either be for the ground or, more commonly, for a rooftop. This positions the solar array to capture the optimum amount of sunlight and, in turn, produce the maximum amount of electricity. Finally, the inverter can make the power generated available immediately and usable as electricity from conventional electric outlets.

Off-grid or remote grid-tie solar power systems are larger than standard grid-tie systems and are used in locations without a utility grid. They are useful in areas where there is no possibility to run a line to a local utility grid due to distance or expense. It does make a solar power system fully independent in case of blackouts or brownouts, which is often common in remote areas. The remote grid-tie solar power system should be able to provide all power for lighting and appliances.