Energy independence is becoming more and more essential in an energy market where prices are skyrocketing, regulatory bodies aren’t doing the best job of stopping them and the National Grid is experiencing higher demand. There’s a lot of stress associated with energy nowadays. Wouldn’t it be nice if you didn’t have to worry about those issues? You can!
An off-grid system works as you might expect. Instead of drawing energy from the grid, you draw it from self-generated renewable energy like solar or wind. You can pair this with a battery storage system to protect you from blackouts, which experts say we’re very likely to see this winter. It’s especially useful if you live in a rural area where electricity might be more unreliable or insufficient – you can use off-grid energy to supplement your needs.
Why you should install an off-grid system
- Generate and use greener energy
Grid energy isn’t generated entirely from renewable sources (yet!) so if you’re looking to be more eco-friendly and sustainable in your energy consumption then an off-grid system is one of the best ways to do it. You can invest early in the UK’s Net Zero future and contribute less carbon emissions – it’s a win for everyone. - Rising energy bills won’t affect you
Without being tied to the National Grid, you’re completely self-sufficient. You won’t have to worry about what the market or your energy supplier says your electricity is worth – it’s only worth what you generate and use! Your energy also isn’t sold back to the grid so you only consume or store the energy you need. This makes your system more efficient. - DNO applications aren’t required
Your Distribution Network Officer (DNO) is a designated individual who regulates energy operations in your area. In an on-grid system, they will require you to connect your solar PV panels to the grid. Applications are getting more expensive and take up to 8 weeks to approve. They can limit the size of the solar array you’re allowed to build. When you install solar panels as part of an off-grid setup, you’re not required to gain approval or link to the grid.
Why would you not install an off-grid system?
Unfortunately, it’s not a no-brainer to install an off-grid system. There’s a few disadvantages you might want to consider before you start your journey.
- They have a higher upfront cost
Since you can’t rely on the National Grid for help, you need to have all the components necessary to generate, store and use your energy onsite. This includes batteries, inverters, charge controllers and potentially even a generator. Most of these are essential for your system to work so the base cost of a setup is quite high compared to a grid-assisted solar array. - You’re limited by your space and capacity to store energy
With a lot more parts, you also need a lot more space to store them. You’re also more likely to run out of electricity if you’re not still conscious of how much you’re using. You won’t experience a grid blackout like your neighbours but you may experience your own if your solar panels aren’t generating optimally or you use more than you can store. A professionally designed and thoroughly examined system will ensure your setup works optimally. - Bigger risk
Without the support of the grid, you’re on your own. It’s your responsibility to monitor and maintain your solar PV system so it runs optimally and efficiently. Of course, your installer might be there to help you if they can but ultimately, it’s all on you. Depending on how “off-grid” you truly want to be – this might even be a selling point!
What’s the alternative?
Hopefully you’ve not been scared off from investing in an off-grid system but if you have, there’s always other options. Instead, you can install an on-grid solar PV system so you get the best of both worlds. You’ll still be able to generate and use green energy – thus reducing your energy bills – and you’ll be more sustainable than the average grid-only consumer. However, an on-grid setup will suffer from changes in the energy market, you’ll be hit (albeit less) by National Grid blackouts if you don’t have excess battery storage and you’ll also be restricted in what you do by your DNO.
Is an off-grid solar system the right step for you or do you prefer the idea of an on-grid set up?
BRIGHT SPARK
We’re one of the leading green energy installers in Sussex and Exmouth, supplying solar PV systems, battery storage, EV chargers and more to residential and commercial properties.
Are you interested in starting your green energy journey? Get in touch!
Tel: 01903 443 321
Email: info@bs.twsdev1.com
