The Difference Between On-Grid, Off-Grid, and Hybrid Solar Systems

As more and more people in India use solar energy, it's more important than ever to pick the right kind of solar system for your home or business. If you want to lower your electricity bills, become energy independent, or make sure you have backup power during outages, it's important to know the difference between on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid solar systems.
We go through each type in this blog and help you choose the one that best meets your energy needs and budget.
1. What is a Solar System That Is Connected to the Grid?
Also called: System tied to the grid
How it works: Linked to the main power grid
Important features:
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Uses solar panels and an inverter, but no batteries
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The grid gets extra power back
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Takes power from the grid when it needs it
Best for: Homes and businesses in cities or towns with stable grid power
Pros:
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Less money needed to set up (no batteries)
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Can get government money and net metering
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Bills for electricity that are lower
Cons:
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Doesn't work when the power goes out
2. What is a Solar System That Works Off the Grid?
Also called: Stand-alone system
How it works: It doesn't depend on the power grid at all
Important features:
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Needs solar panels, an inverter, and batteries for solar power
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Holds energy for use at night or when it's cloudy
Best for: Places that are rural or far away from the grid
Pros:
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Complete energy independence
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Works even when the power goes out
Cons:
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Batteries make the initial cost higher
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May need careful management of energy
3. What Is a Hybrid Solar System?
Also called: Connected to the grid with a battery backup
How it works: It connects to both the grid and solar batteries
Important features:
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Uses solar panels, an inverter, a battery, and a connection to the grid
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Can keep extra energy and send it to the grid as well
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Provides power when the main source goes out
Best for: Places where power goes out a lot or where energy security is important
Pros:
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Power supply that works all the time
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Keeps flexibility while reducing reliance on the grid
Cons:
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A little more expensive than systems that are connected to the grid
Comparison Table
Feature | On-Grid | Off-Grid | Hybrid |
---|---|---|---|
Grid Connection | Yes | No | Yes |
Need for a Battery | No | Yes | Yes |
Power Backup | No | Yes | Yes |
Ideal For | Urban areas | Remote areas | Areas that lose power |
Which System Should You Pick?
Pick On-Grid if:
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Your power grid is reliable
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You want the cheapest installation cost
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You can get net metering
Pick Off-Grid if:
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You are in a place where there is no electricity
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You want to be completely free of energy
Choose Hybrid if:
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You have a lot of blackouts
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You want both net metering and backup
Last Thoughts
Your location, energy needs, and budget will help you choose the best solar system. At Sunday Solar Power, we specialise in making custom on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems that meet your needs. Our team is here to help you whether you want to save money, make sure your power never goes out, or go completely off the grid.
Want to know more? Call Sunday Solar Power today for a free consultation!