How much does an off-grid solar system cost?

Off-grid solar installations cost between $50,000 and $65,000 on average. That’s over $30,000 more expensive than a grid-tied system. The bulk of the expense comes from the battery storage, which will likely run a minimum of about $20,000 just for the equipment.

What is a grid tied solar system?

Grid-tied systems are solar panel installations that are connected to the utility power grid. With a grid-connected system, a home can use the solar energy produced by its solar panels and electricity that comes from the utility grid. If the solar panels generate more electricity than a home needs, the excess is sent to the grid.

Are grid-tied solar panels better than net metering?

Grid-tied solar panel systems are best for homeowners with access to full-retail net metering and don’t experience frequent power outages. With true net metering, a grid-tied system can earn the best solar savings of all the system types because the equipment costs are low.

Can you go off the grid with a hybrid solar system?

If utility service is available near you, there may be laws preventing you from, or making it very difficult to, go off the grid. Hybrid solar systems combine the best of grid-tied and off-grid solar systems; the solar panels are attached to batteries and the utility grid.

How much do solar panels cost?

You can expect to pay about $20,000 for an average-sized grid-tied solar panel system before incentives. The price drops to about $14,000 when you take the federal solar tax credit into account. Grid-connected solar systems are usually the cheapest way to go solar.

Are off-grid solar systems a good idea?

Off-grid solar systems are not for the faint of heart. You should only consider off-grid solar if you don’t have grid access in your area and are prepared for the lifestyle and expenses that come with it. Solar powered tiny homes are a feasible use for off-grid solar systems.