Going totally off the city’s power grid can be gratifying in the way that it offers you total independence in your energy production and consumption. However, it can also be incredibly difficult and present many challenges that some people aren’t prepared for. If you went off the grid but are reconsidering that decision, there are options available to you. Keep reading to learn how to switch from an off-grid system to a hybrid solar power system with a grid connection.

Assessing Your Current System

First, you’ll want to take a detailed look at your system to assess the following:

1. Capacity of your solar panels
2. Storage capacity of your battery bank
3. Output of your inverter

These 3 pieces of information will help you understand what needs to be upgraded or added to your system in order to integrate with the utility grid.

Changing Your Inverter

Hybrid systems consist of 4 key components: solar panels, a battery bank, a hybrid inverter, and a grid connection. With an existing off-grid system, you currently have 2 of those components—the panels and the batteries—but you’re lacking the right kind of inverter and the connection to the city grid. Luckily, getting the first of those 2 items will allow you to obtain the second.

You will need to swap your current off-grid inverter for a hybrid inverter that can manage the flow of electricity between your panels, battery bank, and the utility grid. Make sure to choose your hybrid inverter carefully, ensuring it’s compatible with your existing panels and batteries. This will help you avoid having to upgrade the entire system.

Hiring a Professional

Ideally, you’ll only need to swap out your inverter in order to make a grid connection possible. However, that doesn’t mean this switch will be easy. Changing from an off-grid system to a hybrid one requires complex electrical work and special permits from local authorities. It’s essential that you work with a professional solar installer and/or electrician who can evaluate your system, recommend the best equipment, and handle the installation. This will help ensure your new hybrid system complies with local regulations and safety standards.

Connecting to the Grid

Once your off-grid inverter has been switched to a hybrid one, and all of your other system components have been connected to the new inverter, it’s time to connect to the city utility grid. Your solar installer can coordinate with your utility provider to complete the connection, which may include some inspections and approvals, depending on your location.

Whether you choose to stick with a Schneider off-grid system, switch to a hybrid system, or go with a grid-tied design, your solar power system can continue supplying you with the renewable energy you need to live a greener life without sacrificing modern conveniences.