b) Grid Connected Systems

The solar power systems which are connected directly to the grid (connected to an electricity transmission and distribution system) is known as grid connected systems.

Such system is shown in the above figure. In these types of systems electricity generated is used in homes or offices and excessive power is fed back to the grid. Grid connected systems are designed to replace all or a portion of the building’s total electricity needs. The energy generated by such a system is used first within the home, and surplus energy can then be sold back to the grid. The surplus energy “spins the electric meter backwards” when the energy produced by the solar PV system is greater than that being consumed by the home. In actual fact the utility company will normally install an export meters which measure the amount of electricity generated by the solar PV system.