What is a Hybrid Solar System | Advantage & Disadvantage
Solar panel systems are becoming very popular all over the world including in Pakistan. People want to know about them and understand which system will be best for their home. A hybrid solar system in which the solar panel system is connected to the grid along with a battery. When sunlight falls on the panel during the day, it is converted into electricity through photovoltaic technology. After that, this electricity can be used in homes. But the excess current that remains is stored in the batteries so that when the weather conditions are bad or at night the current can be obtained from the battery.
The hybrid solar system is a system in which the panels are connected to the grid along with the battery. The excess current is stored in the batteries, after which the remaining current can be sent to the grade. It has various advantages. Current can be drawn from the grid at any time, in addition to being sent as credit, and a profit can be made from it.
How does a hybrid solar system work?
There are generally three types of solar systems; on-grid, off-grid and hybrid system. Photovoltaic technology is used in hybrid solar systems. In this system the panel is connected to a battery and at the same time the panel is connected to the grid. It is very easy to use. Apart from usage, the excess current is stored in the batteries and goes to the grid as credit. Whenever there is no current in the battery, it automatically switches from the grid and the power supply does not decrease. In other words, with the use of a hybrid solar system, there is never a shortage of electricity. The battery can be used at night or in bad weather conditions and if there is ever no current in the battery, the panel is connected to the grid and the electricity is supplied. All devices can be operated through this system.
Components Of Hybrid Solar System
Solar Panel
A panel is considered a common part of a solar panel system. They convert sunlight into electricity through photovoltaic technology. We can say that panels are the main source of electricity from the sun.
Hybrid Inverter
Inverters are connected to solar panels. They convert sunlight from direct current to alternating current and make it usable. In addition, they also create a connection between the battery and the panels.
Batteries
Excess current generated by the panels is stored in batteries and can be used later at any time. Batteries are also connected to the panels. It is better to use lithium batteries rather than traditional lead acid batteries. Because the efficiency of lithium batteries is high.
Energy Management
The energy management system controls the flow of current to the solar panels battery and home conditions. Energy management system is considered as the main part of the solar hybrid solar system.
Wiring
The system connecting the battery grade and the solar panel up is called wiring. Through them, the current flows from one place to another. Wiring is also called the main part of the solar panel system.
Grid Connection
Grid connection is an important part of solar connection. When more current is generated in the panel, it goes to the grid after the batteries. Then when there is no current in the batteries and panel, it is automatically connected to the grid and this current can be used.
Power Meter
Battery and grid current can be measured by power meter. That is, it can measure the amount of current flowing and also the amount of current stored in the battery.
The benefits of a hybrid solar system
Cost-Effectiveness
Hybrid solar systems are quite good in terms of savings. Through them, electricity is provided 24 hours, that is, when there are bad weather conditions or at night, the current is obtained from the battery, and sometimes when there is no current in the battery, then the current comes from the grid. In this way, electricity bills are saved to a considerable extent.
Flexibility and Scalability
Hybrid solar systems are designed to meet all types of power needs. That is, whatever kind of load is given to them, it can bear it. Lights, TV, fridge, computers etc can be operated with it. A hybrid system provides flexibility and scalability. This is not possible in any other PV solar system.
Environmental Sustainability
They are environment friendly i.e. they do not emit carbon. Thus, they play a role in keeping the environment clean.
Reduce the Risk of Outages
Hybrid solar systems are designed to operate during grid outages. Its main advantage is that if there is ever bad weather conditions or there is a technical problem, the current can be obtained from the battery. That is, they do not have to face the shortage of electricity by using them.
The Drawbacks of Battery Storage Systems
The disadvantage of using batteries in a hybrid system is that the initial cost becomes very high, which also makes the payback period quite long. Generally, a good quality battery is more expensive but lasts longer. Being expensive has a significant impact on the overall cost of a solar panel system.
Hybrid Solar System Price In Pakistan
The cost of a hybrid solar system depends on the quality of the components used in it. That is, if a good quality panel is used, then its price will be higher, besides, a good quality battery should also be used. It also includes inverters that convert direct current into alternating current. Therefore, their prices keep varying.
The Bottom Line
A hybrid solar system is capable of meeting all energy needs. It includes a battery that can provide current even during grid outages. That is, the use of this system provides 24-hour electricity supply. It is a great investment option. It is better to consult an expert before buying a hybrid solar system to choose the right panel and battery.