Solar power systems have revolutionized how electrical energy is produced and supplied across industries and for domestic usage. With constant innovations in solar technologies, new and potential users may need help to keep up with the advances.
For those wishing to gain valuable insights into hybrid solar systems, read on for their working and advantages. But before we dive deep into hybrid solar systems, let’s understand the three types of solar power systems:
- Off-Grid Solar System: As the name suggests, the solar panels are not attached to the utility grids. The unused power is stored in batteries. This system is installed where frequent power outages are experienced. The battery connected to the system can provide electrical energy to the appliances for longer hours.
- On-Grid Solar Systems: The system works when the panels are connected to the utility grids. It is one of the most popular solar power systems used across residential and industrial areas.
The excess electrical energy is stored in the grid. It is preferred by many because it’s relatively more affordable and can be upgraded to a hybrid solar system. Another advantage is that it’s maintenance friendly. - Hybrid Solar System: It combines off-grid and on-grid solar systems. It means the system is connected to a utility grid and has a battery backup. Hybrid solar systems are installed in areas with no reliable power suppliers and need backups during frequent power outages.
The system can provide energy even on a cloudy day as the excess energy is stored in the batteries.
Components of a Hybrid Solar System
A hybrid solar system consists of the following components. Also given alongside are their functions:
- Solar Panel: Also called PV panels are made of silicon, which is a semiconductor. The panel receives the sun’s radiation and generates DC power.
- DCDB (Direct Current Delivery Box): In a hybrid solar system, the DCDB serves by combining all the wires of a solar panel in a string. The string has two outputs, a negative and a positive.
- Charging Controller: It controls the power amount going to the battery.
- Hybrid Inverter: It changes DC power to AC current, which is sent to the electrical appliances.
- ACDB (Alternative Current Distribution Box): In a hybrid solar system, ACDB safeguards hybrid inverters from malfunctioning.
- Battery: It stores the DC power generated by solar panels. In fact, it is this power that is used during a power outage.
With components understood, let’s look at the advantages of a hybrid solar system:
- Uninterrupted Power Supply: The hybrid system can provide a continuous power supply, even during power outages. The battery storing DC power serves as a backup.
During days there is low or no sunlight, the hybrid solar system is seen as a reliable power source. - Maintenance Friendly: Compared to traditional diesel generators, the hybrid system is low maintenance. They last longer as no servicing is required because no fuel is used.
- Load Management: Hybrid solar systems can easily manage loads whenever they are turned on. It means they can manage the energy supply to the appliance they are connected to.
- Complete Use of Resources: Since the battery is able to store any excess power generated, there is full use of the resources available.
- Improved Efficiency: A hybrid solar panel is highly efficient as it can work well despite the weather conditions.
With these advantages over traditional power backup technologies, hybrid solar systems have become a preferred power generating and supplying source for many.
There are several types of hybrid solar systems, and based on the need and features, you can zero in on the one you would like to purchase. Check out Luminous for the latest hybrid solar system technology.
