Solar power generation line cutting

How can solar power and the grid work together?

Programs like net metering and time-of-use rates are helping solar power and the grid work better together, but more can be done to adapt to the needs of solar-powered homes. Solar power helps the grid in many different ways, such as smoothing out the demand curve, reducing grid stress, and lowering the cost of grid upgrades and maintenance.

How does solar energy reduce the stress on the electricity grid?

Solar energy lowers the stress on the electricity grid because most solar energy stays in the area where it’s generated, and doesn’t need to be transmitted long distances. As a result, the transmission lines get a breather during the hottest parts of the day when demand is highest.

What is a grid tied solar panel system?

When grid-tied, your solar panel system is connected to the grid via a bi-directional electricity meter. It measures the excess power you send to the grid when your solar panels produce more than you need, and the amount of energy you pull from the grid when your solar panel system doesn't generate enough.

How does solar energy affect grid parity?

Furthermore, as the cost of solar decreases and efficiency increases, the technology approaches grid parity, which is when solar power costs less than, or equal to, the cost of electricity from conventional fossil fuel sources like coal, oil, and natural gas.

Can net metering help integrate solar power and the grid?

As more people are going solar, utility companies are using programs like net metering to help integrate solar power and the grid. We believe the solar power industry and the electric grid can enjoy mutual benefits through increased energy supply that stabilizes when, where, and how electricity is generated and distributed.

Are solar panels off-grid?

If you are truly off-grid, you are not connected in any way to the local grid. That means there are no distribution wires from the power line to your home. You are entirely reliant on the electricity your solar panels produce to meet your energy needs, and there’s no backup in case of a power outage or other issue.