Could I go Off-Grid? We discover the pro’s and con’s to weigh up.

Go Off-Grid – WHAT IS AN OFF GRID SOLAR SYSTEM

Could I go Off-Grid? We discover the pro’s and con’s to weigh up. With energy prices continuing to rise, energy independence is becoming more of a topic on everyone’s minds. With the National Grid requiring more demand to charge electric vehicles, and the future of fossil fuels and energy prices being unknown, many homeowners are now looking at ways to disconnect from the grid completely.

If you’re thinking the same, an Off-Grid Solar Systems may be your best solution. Fully off grid solar system are not connected to the National grid in anyway, meaning you are completely independent from the UK’s energy network. So how do you receive your energy? Well, an off grid solar system generates and stores your own renewable energy to power your home instead.

An off-grid solar system is the perfect solution for homeowners looking to make the change to 100% green energy, and who live in rural areas where the current power supply may not be sufficient or reliable. These types of Solar PV systems are suitable for homes, holiday homes, offices and even larger buildings.

Go Off-Grid – THE ADVANTAGES OF AN OFF GRID SOLAR SYSTEM

• 100% GREEN ENERGY

When you install an off-grid solar system you can be confident that you’re property and everything you plug in, is being powered by 100% Green Energy. With an average supplier, annual CO2 emissions for the energy you use at home would be around 3.2 tonnes per year, however if you choose to be off grid your home will be carbon emissions free!

• FREE FROM RISING ENERGY BILLS

With no ties to the National Grid, by generating your own Solar Energy, you are exempt from any energy price changes. With energy independence, you also gain complete budget stability, security and comfort.

• MORE ENERGY SAVINGS

Unlike a grid tied system, in an off grid system you won’t sell any energy you generate back to the Grid. This is because you will consume 100% of the energy which you generate, either from your battery storage system or generator, meaning you will be completely energy bill free.

• NO DNO APPLICATION REQUIRED

As an off grid solar system is completely independant from the National Grid, no DNO application is required. A DNO stands for a Distribution Network Officer, and is usually required to connect any Solar PV System to the Grid. Not only are DNO applications getting more expensive, but they can also limit the size of your system, and control your export amount. Whereas if you install a fully off-grid system you won’t have to wait up to 8 weeks for your DNO approval, and won’t have any limitations on your system.

THE DISADVANTAGES OF AN OFF GRID SOLAR SYSTEM

• INITAL COST

As an off grid solar system requires larger storage, more solar panels, a larger inverter and in some cases even a generator, they are often double the price of a grid-tied system. This is mainly because your system will have no support from the Grid and therefore will have to be able to store and generate larger capacities. 

• BIGGER RISKS

When you live off-grid the way you use your energy is more important. This is because energy storage can be limited, and there will always be a potential risk of running out of energy, including your stored energy, especially on cloudier days. It is important to get your system designed by an expert to meet your energy needs, and it is also important that you understand how much energy you should be generating throughout the year so you know when your system is underperforming. This way any issues can be addressed and solved quickly, otherwise you may be left with no energy at all.

Go Off-Grid INSTALLING AN OFF GRID SOLAR SYSTEM

Go Off-Grid – Hopefully after exploring the advantages and disadvantages of Off-Grid Solar Systems you will have come to a decision as to whether a Grid tied, or Off grid system is right for you. Here at Renew-Able Solutions, we design and install bespoke Off Grid Solar Systems in the UK, for homeowners looking to be 100% Green. Whether you are looking to power an outdoor office, camp site, or farm, our team of experts are here to help. For more information regarding our Off-Grid Solar System prices, please visit our Off Grid solar page below. We only install the best Off Grid systems available, and stay loyal to Victron Energy who have led the way in providing energy freedom and independence.

Here at Renew-Able Solutions we are official distributors of EcoFlow products and you can shop the complete range here. EcoFlow offer a range of solar generators, portable power stations and back up battery power.