Grid tie inverters, or GTIs for short, are a type of DC to AC power converter commonly used in renewable energy applications. They're commonly used to feed electricity into the utility grid, which is then sold to the power company. For example, if a GTI system feeds 500 kilowatt hours into the utility grid in a month and only 100 of those hours are consumed, the remaining 400 hours will be paid. The rules governing this 'net metering' programme differ depending on where you live and who governs it.
On the market today, there are several distinct types of grid tie inverters, each of which uses a different type of technology. Microtek, a reputed company manufacturing grid tie inverters employs what is best available in technology. They may employ the most recent high frequency transformers, more common low frequency transformers, or none at all these days. The high frequency models use a computerised process that includes many phases to convert power to high frequency AC, then back to DC, and finally to AC at the desired output voltage. The process by which these highly sophisticated devices operate is complicated, but it may be comprehended with the help of a schematic illustration.
Grid tie inverters that do not require transformers, on the other hand, are typically lighter and more efficient than those that do. As a result, they are increasingly well-known across Europe. They do not, however, enjoy the same level of popularity in India. This is largely due to the fact that all solar-powered electric systems in the country are required to be negatively grounded, which is a configuration that is impossible to achieve with transformer-less converters. When power generated by transformer-less grid tie inverters is fed into the electrical grid, it poses a concern because the energy is not as steady and could cause problems.
There are various considerations to ponder when purchasing grid tie inverters:
· Rated output power - expressed in watts or kilowatts, this figure indicates the output rating for various output voltages.
· Peak efficiency - the highest level of efficiency that the gadget is capable of.
· Maximum input current - the amount of direct current that the device will use at its maximum.
· Start voltage - this is a value that isn't typically shown on data sheets. It informs you how much DC voltage the device needs to turn on and start working.
· NEMA rating - indicates how well the equipment is protected against water.
Grid-tie with battery backup: This sort of solar system is similar to a grid-tie system but with a few additional features. You'll also need 12-volt batteries, a battery charger, and a solar charge controller in addition to the inverter and solar panels. The inclusion of the batteries necessitates a bit of additional upkeep. A solar charge controller is used to prevent the batteries from being overcharged or undercharged. When there is utility power available, a battery charger is used to charge the batteries. Although more expensive than a standard grid-tie system, it does supply power in the event of a utility power outage.
The term "off-grid" refers to a system that is completely independent of the utility grid. It is most typically used in locations without access to power. It's essentially the same setup as the grid tie with battery backup, except it uses a different type of inverter. In an off-grid system, an off-grid inverter would be used instead of a grid-tie inverter. That makes sense, we suppose. Some inverters can be used in either direction, while others have highly specific uses. To ensure that all of the individual components are compatible, little research is required. This type of solar-powered system is frequently used in conjunction with a generator as a backup when the system's wattage needs are not met.
Prices are falling as more and more mass-produced solar goods enter the market. Energy credits, government incentives, as well as state and local incentives, all help to make a solar power system more affordable. https://www.microtekdirect.com/ is a good place to look for more detailed information. It will inform you about the available devices and technologies. Before choosing which form of solar powered system is best for your needs, do some research.
Microtek is a firm worth considering if you're looking for grid tie inverters. This company sells a wide range of these devices, many of which are specifically designed for solar panel systems.
