Grid Tied With Battery – Hybrid Solar System: Definition, and How it Works

A hybrid solar system, alternatively known as a grid-tied solar system with battery backup, is a type of solar energy setup that combines the benefits of both grid-tied and off-grid systems. A hybrid solar system allows you to generate solar power while staying connected to the grid, with the added advantage of battery storage to store excess energy for later use.

The working principle of a hybrid solar system is that it combines solar energy generation with battery storage, allowing you to use solar power during the day, store excess energy for use at night or during power outages, and even send surplus energy back to the grid for potential credits.

One of the advantages of hybrid systems is their ability to optimize energy usage, potentially leading to significant cost savings over time. They offer protection against rising electricity prices and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. However, these systems come with higher initial costs than traditional grid-tied solar setups, requiring more complex installation and maintenance.

Among the top battery options for hybrid systems, the Bluetti EP900 stands out for its impressive capacity and dual-voltage output. One of the best inverters for grid-tied systems is the Sungrow SH-RS series, which is highly regarded due to its wide MPPT voltage range and advanced features like built-in PID (Potential-Induced Degradation) recovery.

A hybrid solar system typically costs $15,000 to $55,000 for residential installations, depending on system size and specific components. These grid-tied battery systems generally have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, with individual components like batteries and inverters potentially needing replacement earlier.

Despite the higher upfront costs, many homeowners find hybrid solar systems to be a worthwhile investment. Hybrid residential solar facilitates energy security, potential long-term savings, and a step towards a more sustainable future. As technology advances and prices continue to decrease, these systems are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking to optimize their energy usage and reduce reliance on the grid.

What is a Hybrid Solar System?

A hybrid solar system seamlessly blends the reliability of a grid connection with the independence of battery storage to offer an efficient renewable energy solution for your home. The main advantage of a hybrid solar system is that it allows you to generate solar electricity, use it to power your home, and store any excess energy in batteries. The stored energy can then be used even when the sun isn’t shining or on cloudy days. While maintaining a connection to the grid, a hybrid system provides the flexibility to maximize the benefits of solar power while ensuring a consistent energy supply for your residential and commercial appliances.

In a hybrid solar system, solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, powering your home during the day. Excess energy is stored in batteries, creating a personal power reserve for later use. The solar system remains connected to the main electricity grid, providing a backup and allowing two-way energy flow. This hybrid solar setup uses a battery system that enables you to rely on solar energy during peak sunny days, switch to battery power in the evening, and draw from or sell excess energy back to the grid when needed.

How does a Hybrid Solar System work?

A hybrid solar system works by intelligently managing the flow of electricity between solar panels, battery storage, and the utility grid. This allows homeowners to optimize energy usage, reduce reliance on the grid, and ensure that electricity is available even during power outages.

In a hybrid system, solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, which is then used to power the home. Excess electricity generated by the solar panels is stored in the battery for later use. Battery storage provides access to solar energy during the night or when the sun isn't shining, reducing dependency on the utility grid.

When the battery is fully charged and excess energy is still being produced, it feeds back into the grid, potentially earning credits or lowering electricity bills. During periods of low solar production or high demand, electricity is drawn from the battery first, followed by the grid if necessary, ensuring a continuous supply.

One of the key components of a grid-tied with battery solar system with batteries is the hybrid inverter (or energy management system). This smart technology constantly monitors your energy production, household consumption, battery levels, and even grid electricity prices. Hybrid inverters make real-time decisions about where to source power from or where to send excess energy for optimal efficiency and cost savings. The switch between power sources (solar, battery, grid) happens automatically and usually instantaneously, so you won't experience any interruptions in your power supply.

What are the advantages of a Grid-Tied With Battery (Hybrid) Solar System?

The four main advantages of hybrid solar systems are energy independence, the availability of backup power during outages, maximized solar energy use, and financial benefits.

More information on each of the 4 main advantages of hybrid solar systems is provided below.

• Energy Independence: Hybrid solar systems facilitate energy independence by combining grid-tied solar panels with battery storage. This reduces dependence on the local utility grid. During sunny days, excess energy is stored in the batteries and used later when the sun isn’t shining or during peak rate hours. This system protects against rising electricity costs by enabling the use of stored solar energy during high-cost periods, enhancing both savings and energy self-sufficiency.
• Backup Power: A hybrid system provides the benefit of a continuous backup power supply during grid outages. The battery system kicks in when the grid goes down, providing uninterrupted power to essential appliances. This enables key home appliances like refrigerators and lighting to remain functional and operational even during blackouts.
• Maximized Solar Energy Use: A hybrid solar system allows for solar energy to be stored, . The stored energy is used later instead of sending excess solar energy back to the grid, which maximizes the amount of solar that can be used.
• Financial Benefits: The financial benefits of a hybrid system include reduced electricity bills, protection against rising energy costs, and potential earnings from excess energy fed back into the grid.

What are the disadvantages of a Grid-Tied With Battery (Hybrid) Solar System?

The 3 main disadvantages of grid-tied with battery-hybrid solar systems are compatibility concerns, high cost of installation and maintenance, and space requirements.

More information on each of these three main disadvantages of grid-tied with battery-hybrid solar systems is below.

• Compatibility Concerns: Grid-tied with battery hybrid solar panel systems are likely to use some converters that are not always compatible with newer, more efficient battery designs. This lack of compatibility could limit your options for future upgrades.
• Higher Installation and Maintenance Costs: Hybrid solar systems usually involve additional components like batteries and charge controllers, which tend to increase installation and maintenance expenses compared to standard grid-tied systems.
• Space Requirements: Hybrid solar systems require enough space to store the batteries and other components. This is likely to be a major drawback, especially for homeowners who do not have sufficient space to accommodate these components.

What are the best hybrid inverters for a Hybrid Solar System?

The three best hybrid inverters for a hybrid solar system are Sungrow SH-RS Hybrid inverters, Enphase IQ8 and 5P battery, and Fronius GEN24 Plus Inverter.

More information on each of these top three hybrid inverters for a hybrid solar system is below.

1. Sungrow SH-RS Hybrid Inverters (Best Overall): Sungrow SH-RS Hybrid inverters are designed for residential use, offering efficient energy management. Key features of the Sungrow SH-RS Hybrid Inverters include the wide range of battery voltage (80~460 V), built-in smart PID (potential induced degradation) recovery, and energy independence capabilities. These inverters excel in both grid-tied and off-grid operations, ensuring uninterrupted power supply. Their compatibility with various battery types and high charging/discharging rates make them a versatile choice for homeowners seeking energy independence.
2. Enphase IQ8 and 5P Battery (Best for Enhancing Solar Performance): The Enphase IQ8 microinverter is an all-in-one AC-coupled storage system. It has a total usable energy capacity of 5.0 kWh and features six embedded grid-forming microinverters. Other key features of the Enphase IQ8 microinverter for hybrid systems include backup capabilities, remote monitoring, and flexible usage.  
3. Fronius GEN24 Plus Inverter (Best for Performance & Reliability): The Fronius GEN24 Plus is a versatile hybrid inverter suitable for both new and existing solar installations. Due to its unique retro styling, the Fronius GEN24 Plus stands out from the crowd, maintaining Fronius' reputation for performance and reliability. It seamlessly integrates photovoltaic, storage, and heating systems, optimizing energy utilization. Fronius GEN24 Plus boasts advanced features, such as integrated backup power, intelligent grid management, and installer-friendly features.

Sungrow SH-RS Hybrid Inverters are widely regarded as the best hybrid inverters in the market due to their advanced features and exceptional performance. These inverters boast a wide MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) voltage range and multiple MPPT trackers, allowing for optimized solar energy harvesting across various panel configurations. Their built-in PID recovery function typically found only in large-scale inverters, sets them apart by addressing potential induced degradation in panels, thereby extending the lifespan of a hybrid system.

What are the best batteries for a Hybrid Solar System?

The best batteries for a hybrid solar system are the Bluetti EP900, Tesla Powerwall 3, and Enphase IQ Battery 5P.

More information on each of the three best batteries for a hybrid solar system is provided below.

1. Bluetti EP900 (Best Overall): The Bluetti EP900 is a cutting-edge energy storage system designed for residential use, offering a perfect blend of power, versatility, and expandability. Its key features include robust energy storage, reliable backup, flexible power output, scalable design, and long-lasting performance. With a capacity ranging from 10 to 20 kWh (kilowatt-hours), the EP900 easily meets the daily energy needs of most households. It provides seamless, safe power to keep your home running smoothly during utility outages. In terms of power output, the EP900 uniquely offers both 120V and 240V outputs simultaneously from a single unit, accommodating a wide range of appliances. As your energy requirements grow, it is possible to expand the system by up to 40 kWh by adding B500 expansion batteries. As the best solar panel battery overall based on its modular design, Bluetti EP900 is built with stable lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) chemistry and backed by a 15-year limited warranty. The EP900 is designed for longevity and peace of mind. The Bluetti EP900 is an investment in energy independence that carries the potential to pay dividends over time, potentially even generating income through grid services or energy arbitrage.
2. Tesla Powerwall 3 (Best for Backup Protection): The Tesla Powerwall 3 represents the latest evolution in home energy storage, offering homeowners a compact and powerful storage solution for solar. Its standout features include a comprehensive backup, an integrated inverter, high continuous output power 11.5kW (kilowatts), innovative energy modes, seamless solar integration, cost-saving potential, and weather resilience. The Powerwall Series (including the Powerwall 3) ensures your entire home stays powered during outages, with a smooth transition to stored energy. With its smart energy mode, you get to customize how you use your stored energy, whether for outage protection, reducing bills, or maximizing self-consumption of solar energy. Tesla Powerwall 3 efficiently captures and stores solar energy for use when the sun isn't shining. This allows you to utilize stored energy during peak pricing periods to optimize your electricity costs. The Tesla Powerwall 3 battery is engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, maintaining operation even in cold temperatures.
3. Enphase IQ Battery 5P (Best for Managing ‘Time of Use’ Electricity Rates): The Enphase IQ Battery 5P is a state-of-the-art, AC-coupled storage system that packs impressive capabilities into a sleek package. From efficient energy storage to scalable power, backup, and durability, the Enphase IQ Battery 5P is a game-changer. Each unit provides 5.0 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of usable energy capacity, powered by six embedded grid-forming microinverters. With nearly 4 kW (kilowatts) of continuous power per unit, the system is easily expandable to meet larger energy needs. When paired with the IQ System Controller 3/3G, it provides reliable backup power during grid outages. Utilizing stable lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, the IQ Battery 5P prioritizes safety and long-term performance. Its modular design allows installers to tailor the system size precisely to customer requirements. The battery has a 15-year warranty, which provides absolute confidence in your investment. The Enphase IQ Battery 5P offers a powerful, reliable, and customizable path to energy independence, combining advanced technology with practical design.

Bluetti EP900 is often considered the best solar panel battery for a hybrid solar system due to its exceptional energy storage capacity, modular design, and dual-voltage output capabilities, offering unparalleled flexibility and power management, especially for residential users.

What is the average cost of a Grid Tied With Battery – Hybrid Solar System?

The average cost of a hybrid solar system typically ranges from $15,000 to $55,000 for residential installations. However, the exact price typically varies significantly based on several factors, such as system size, battery capacity, equipment quality, installation complexity, geographical location, and incentives.

Larger hybrid systems, which have more solar panels and greater battery capacity, generally cost more. In terms of battery capacity, the amount of energy storage you choose significantly impacts the overall cost of your installation. When selecting equipment for your solar panel, you're advised to opt for premium-quality equipment and accessories. These premium brands ensure high efficiency of your entire installation while increasing the overall cost. The complexity of your installation is another key factor contributing to the overall cost of installing a grid-tied battery solar system, which features factors like your roof types, electrical system upgrade, etc. The geographical location is another key factor affecting the installation cost, as labor costs and local regulations vary from region to region. Finally, Federal, state, and local incentives substantially reduce the net cost of installing a grid-tied with battery solar hybrid solar system.

What is the average lifespan of a Hybrid Solar System?

The average lifespan of a hybrid solar system is typically 20 to 30 years. However, different components of a hybrid solar panel system have varying lifespans. Most solar panels come with 25-30-year warranties and are able to last even longer. The average lifespan of inverters for hybrid solar systems varies based on their types. Grid-tied inverters usually last 10-15 years. At the same time, some microinverters and power optimizers have 25-year warranties, hybrid inverters last about 15 years. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in hybrid systems, typically last 5-15 years. Solar charge controllers actually last for 5-15 years. While the entire hybrid system lasts 20-30 years, you will likely replace specific components, particularly the batteries and inverter, during this time. Above all, regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your hybrid system.

Are Hybrid Solar Systems popular?

Yes, hybrid solar systems are becoming increasingly popular. Their popularity is attributed to their ability to combine them. When it comes to the popularity of solar systems, there are benefits of grid-tied and off-grid systems. Hybrid solar systems allow homeowners to generate solar power, store excess energy in batteries, and even feed surplus electricity back into the grid. The main factors contributing to the popularity of hybrid solar systems are energy independence, backup power, financial incentives, and environmental impacts.

Energy independence is one of the main factors. Homeowners are increasingly seeking ways to reduce reliance on the grid. Therefore, hybrid systems provide energy independence by allowing homeowners to use stored solar energy during grid outages. This reliability is especially appealing in regions with frequent power disruptions, such as Texas, Michigan, and California. With increasing concerns about grid reliability, the ability to have power during outages is highly valued.  Storing excess solar energy in batteries allows homeowners to maximize self-consumption. Hybrid solar systems enable homeowners to use their own generated power rather than relying solely on the grid. In terms of financial incentives, many regions, such as Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, offer incentives for battery storage in addition to solar panels. In terms of environmental impacts, using solar power reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner environment. Grid-tied battery hybrid systems allow homeowners to make a positive impact while enjoying the convenience of grid connectivity.

Is installing a Hybrid Solar System as your Solar Panel a good investment? 

Yes, installing a hybrid solar system is often a good investment for homeowners, particularly those wanting to achieve energy independence and protect against outages. Although the initial costs are sometimes high, the long-term savings from reduced utility bills and the ability to sell excess stored energy back to the grid tend to offset these upfront expenses, making it a financially wise choice.

Can you use a Hybrid Solar System during a Power Outage?

Yes, you can use a hybrid solar (grid-tied with battery) system during a power outage. This is actually one of its key advantages over a standard grid-tied system without batteries. When the grid goes down, the system detects the outage and automatically disconnects from the grid, a process known as islanding.

Islanding is used to describe a process where you continue to generate electricity with your solar panels during power outages. The system immediately starts drawing power from the battery storage to continue powering your home. As long as it's daytime and your solar panels generate electricity, they'll continue to power your home and charge your batteries.

Depending on the system's capacity, you will be able to power your entire home or just essential circuits such as refrigeration, lighting, and other key equipment. The length of time you operate off-grid depends on your battery capacity and energy usage. The system will automatically reconnect and resume normal operation when grid power is restored.

Is a Hybrid Solar System worth it?

Yes, a hybrid solar system is often worth the investment for many homeowners. Homeowners enjoy incredible benefits, such as energy independence, due to less reliance on the grid during power outages or price fluctuations. Maximized solar energy usage due to solar energy storage and financial savings due to high energy costs or time-of-use rates are some of the main reasons why a hybrid solar system is considered a worthwhile investment.

What is the difference between Hybrid and On-Grid Solar Systems?

While both hybrid and on-grid solar systems are “grid-tied”, the main difference between them is that hybrid systems have battery storage and on-grid systems do not. This means that hybrid systems are able to provide power during outages, whereas the more widely used on-grid rooftop solar systems do not. Other key differences between hybrid solar systems and on-grid solar systems relate to power outages, energy independence, initial cost, and complexity of installation.

More information on each of the five key differences between hybrid solar systems and on-grid solar systems is below.

• Battery Storage: Battery storage is one of the key differences between hybrid solar systems and on-grid solar systems. In hybrid solar systems, the solar panels generate electricity, which is then used directly in your home, stored in batteries, or fed back into the grid. The battery storage allows you to store excess solar energy during the day for use at night or during power outages, providing a reliable energy backup source for you to depend on. On the other hand, traditional on-grid solar systems are connected to the utility grid but lack battery storage. Any excess energy produced by the solar panels in an on-grid solar system is sent directly to the grid. Electricity is drawn directly from the grid when the panels aren’t producing enough power. Unlike hybrid solar systems, on-grid solar systems are highly dependent on the grid and don't provide power during outages.
• Power Outages: Hybrid solar systems provide power during grid outages, while on-grid solar systems usually shut down during grid outages for safety reasons. This provision of power is attributed to the presence of backup batteries, which allow for the storage of excess solar energy for later use.  
• Energy Independence: Hybrid solar systems offer higher degrees of energy independence compared to on-grid solar systems, which are largely dependent on the grid.
• Initial Cost: Hybrid solar systems are said to have a higher upfront cost due to the battery components compared to the on-grid solar system, which has a lower initial investment.
• Complexity: Grid-tied battery hybrid solar systems are said to be more complex in terms of installation compared to on-grid solar systems, which have simpler systems. This is because additional components are required when installing grid-tied battery hybrid solar systems, whereas on-grid solar systems require fewer components.

What is the difference between Hybrid Solar Systems and Off-Grid Solar Systems?

The main difference between hybrid solar systems and off-grid solar systems is whether or not they are tied to the electricity grid. While both systems have battery storage, only hybrid systems are connected to the utility grid. By contrast, an off-grid system functions independently of the grid.

While hybrid solar systems are connected to the utility grid, off-grid rooftop solar systems are not. Usually, grid-tied solar systems are connected to the utility grid, allowing you to use the electricity generated by your solar panels directly in your home or export any excess power back to the grid. This means you tend to draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren't producing enough energy, like during nighttime or cloudy days. In contrast, off-grid solar systems operate independently from the utility grid. It relies solely on energy storage, typically in batteries, to supply power when solar energy is not available, such as at night or during extended periods of low sunlight. Other key differences between hybrid solar systems and off-grid solar systems are seen in their energy independence, battery size, and cost.

More information on each of the four key differences between hybrid solar systems (grid-tied with battery) and off-grid solar systems is below.

• Grid Connection: Connection to the utility grid is one of the key differences between hybrid solar systems and off-grid solar systems. Hybrid solar systems provide a seamless connection to the grid for continuous power, while off-grid systems depend entirely on stored energy, making them self-sufficient and more dependent on battery capacity and management.
• Energy Independence: Hybrid solar systems offer complete energy independence compared to off-grid solar systems, which provide partial energy independence.
• Battery Size: Hybrid solar system often includes a battery to store excess solar energy for later use, providing backup power during grid outages. Off-grid solar systems on the other hand require even larger batteries to meet energy needs when there is no sunlight.
• Initial Cost: Hybrid solar systems are said to have a lower upfront cost compared to the off-grid solar system, which usually requires larger batteries and other components.