Free Standing Systems
Free standing systems are independent from the utility grid, avoiding the possibility of losing power when the grid goes down. Electricity from stand-alone systems are used on site, such as an RV or cabin. Power that is generated can be stored in batteries and used at night. A generator may also be used for backup.

Grid Intertie Systems
If you currently use utility power, consider a grid intertie system. Many people have chosen to generate some of their electricity and reduce their dependence on the utility company. A small solar system will slow the meter down, reducing the monthly bill. A large system may turn the meter backwards, with excess power being fed back into the grid, and the customer may receive a credit.

All around the world, grid intertie systems are being installed on homes. Germany, Japan and the United States all have active programs to encourage home owners to generate some of their own electricity. California has legislated buyback rates, so the utility companies must credit customers for each kilowatt hour fed back into the grid, reducing their monthly bills.

Our Utility Intertie without Battery Backup System is used to integrate solar power with utility power in a grid-connected home. Also known as a net-metering system, the unit converts DC power generated by the solar panels into grid-quality AC power. The power is fed back into the grid through the home's existing power panel and utility meter. As the power sent to the grid passes through the meter, it will count slower, or even run in reverse (if the power generated is greater than household demand at any instant in time).

Hybrid Systems
Brownouts and blackouts during hot summer months have government officials and many home and business owners concerned about power shortages. Those for whom emergency backup power is essential in the event of a utility power failure -- especially work-at-home professionals, individuals who store important data or documents electronically, or who own refrigeration equipment -- including a battery bank in the system design is a wise option. This will provide backup power and increase the value of the system.

A combination of the above systems, hybrid systems possess the advantages of both. Like grid intertie systems, they are connected to the utility grid in case the weather is insufficient for the solar system, but, like free standing systems, they also have batteries to store electricity in case the utility grid goes down. The design and installation of these systems is more complicated and expensive. However, hybrid systems are the most effective type of photovoltaic application for providing constant, reliable electricity.