Solar energy is widely used in our lives, and people can choose to store solar energy or supply power to the city grid. But you need to choose the right solar inverter for it. There are two main types of solar inverters: hybrid inverters and grid-tied inverters. So, what is the difference between a hybrid inverter and a grid-tied inverter?
Differences in inverter functions
The main function of the grid-connected inverter is to convert DC power into AC power and has the ability to interface synchronously with the mains line. This inverter can transfer unused power to the grid without the need for batteries. On grid-tied inverters can be equipped with MTTP technology in the input circuit.
The hybrid inverter is a more complex device that integrates on-grid and off-grid functions. Specifically, it can convert DC power into AC power, which can be used in both grid-connected and off-grid photovoltaic systems. Hybrid inverters are mainly used to handle systems with energy storage (battery), in addition to generating electricity (solar panels) and the grid, the inverter also needs to handle the charging and discharging of the battery. During a power outage, a hybrid inverter can power other appliances from batteries and solar energy, effectively becoming a large UPS (uninterruptible power supply).
Different features and application scenarios
The main function of the on grid-tied inverter is to deliver solar energy to the city grid. During the operation of the grid-connected inverter, the power delivered to the urban power grid can be measured so that users can obtain corresponding subsidies from the government or reduce grid costs. This type of inverter is suitable for areas with strong urban power grids and high power demand.
The hybrid inverter integrates the functions of the on grid-connected inverter and the off-grid inverter. It can both deliver power to the city grid and store solar and grid power in battery systems. For use when the city power grid is out of power. The hybrid inverter has a built-in solar charge controller, which can use solar energy and city grid power to charge the battery system. Hybrid inverters are an ideal choice in areas where power demand is high but urban power grids are not stable enough or power supply is insufficient.
Different application factors to consider when choosing an inverter
- Installation environment: The on grid-connected inverter needs to be connected to the urban power grid, so it is necessary to ensure that the installation environment has reliable grid infrastructure. Hybrid inverters need to consider both the grid and solar power generation.
- Energy demand: For users with higher power needs, a on grid-connected inverter may be more suitable because it can directly deliver excess power to the city grid. Hybrid inverters can meet users' energy needs when the grid is out of power.
- Investment cost: The initial investment cost of a on grid-connected inverter may be lower than that of a hybrid inverter, but for users who require a battery system, the overall cost of a hybrid inverter may be lower.
- Reliability: For users who need to ensure the reliability of power supply, a hybrid inverter may be more suitable because it has both grid-connected and off-grid functions.
- Maintenance cost: The maintenance cost of a hybrid inverter may be higher than that of a grid-tied inverter, because in addition to the inverter itself, the maintenance of the battery system also needs to be considered.
Advantages of on grid-tied inverters
- The installation cost is low and it is suitable for projects of various sizes, especially for distributed power generation systems.
- Low maintenance cost and long service life, usually more than 20 years.
- Excess electric energy can be sold to the power grid to achieve energy sharing and conservation.
- Environmentally friendly and can provide clean energy for the power grid.
Advantages of hybrid inverters
- It can provide household power in the event of a power outage because it contains a battery energy storage system.
- The electric energy stored in the battery can be used to realize electricity consumption at night.
- Excess electric energy can be sold to the power grid to achieve energy sharing and conservation.
- It can be used as a backup power supply when the power grid fails or loses power.
