A stand-alone off-grid system is any type of renewable electricity system that is completely independent of the utility grid. Although this may sound like a dream come true, collecting all of the actual facts can help you to determine whether this is the best move for you.

Deciding to move would mean you do not need the service of the utility company anymore. Although this move is somewhat good because you don’t have to pay high expenses to your utility provider, the disadvantage here is that it would mean no one will help you to check the problem when the electricity loses its power in the middle of the night. You will have to do it yourself so you can use the utility again.

You might be thinking that by setting up an off-grid system for electrical supply you can save money or lessen utility bills. This may not happen because the process of generating your own power would mean you will spend more money for the essential tools and machine. The battery, the engine generator, and the operating costs are all very expensive.

Your budget for this energy system should be higher because you will definitely spend thousands of dollars for the initial costs of setting the system up. With all these expenses, you would naturally expect that the system will work efficiently but there are times the system fails. And since this is powered by solar energy, it will operate while the sun is at its peak. That’s why it needs a battery bank where the energy can be stored.

Renewable energy through the off-grid system may not be the practical solution. There are times that you will have to use a backup generator just to keep the supply of electricity going. At times when power is not available, you will not be able to use your appliances. This may cause damage to your appliances.

Aside from the expenses and the limitations of the system, you also have to consider the maintenance and labor to be applied in going off-grid. Your independence will require you to gain knowledge about the mechanics of the system in case some problems arise. Instead of hiring someone to do the necessary maintenance for your system, you will save more if you know how to do it yourself.

Being independent with your electricity system is not impossible, especially if you have the capacity to be so. But if your sources are limited and you are not yet stable in handling related problems and expenses regarding the system, might as well think of it first. While you are still on the stage of learning more about the system, it is good to stay grid-tied while installing your own off-grid system so you have an available back-up when your system fails.

The grid-tie system is enough for those who are new to using renewable energy. This is utilized by setting up an inverter that connects the utility grid to the main switch of the house. There is no battery needed and the excess energy will go back to the grid. When you are ready to move from grid-tied to off-grid system, perhaps the costs of the batteries and the whole set up is lesser by that time.