Explained In 30 Seconds – Hybrid Solar Energy Systems

September 7, 2018

This article is designed to simplify you’re understanding of what a hybrid PV system is and how it works

WHAT IS A HYBRID PV SYSTEM?

A solar energy system that connects to the grid, has battery backup and can operate in on-grid and off-grid mode.

Major System Components:

  • Solar Modules
  • Hybrid Inverter/Charger (today these are integrated together)
  • Batteries
  • Mounting System
  • Wiring – PV and Battery
  • Safety Disconnects
Typical Solar Hybrid Energy Flow Layout Diagram
Typical Solar Hybrid Energy Flow Layout Diagram

ON GRID vs HYBRID – Advantages

On Grid
1. Cheapest system cost
2. Most simplified system
3. Can sell power to the grid – if net metering is available

Hybrid
1. Works on and off-grid
2. Can sell power to the grid – if net metering is available
3. 24/7 power supply – uninterrupted

ON GRID vs HYBRID – Disadvantages

On Grid
1. PV can’t operate without grid
2. Less overall power control

Hybrid
1. More expensive than on-grid
2. More components to maintain

DOES A HYBRID PV SYSTEM WORK?

  • Solar Panels convert energy from sunshine into DC electricity
  • Solar electricity is transmitted to either
    • The house loads
    • Battery bank
    • Back to the grid – if net metering is available and the grid is functioning
  • If the grid shuts off the hybrid inverter becomes isolated from the grid and operates in the off-grid mode
  • The battery can send power to the grid or the loads and be charged by the solar panels or the grid (users can adjust settings for maximum control)
Typical Daily Energy Flow using a Hybrid PV Energy Storage System
Typical Daily Energy Flow using a Hybrid PV Energy Storage System

BATTERIES – Lead Acid vs Li-Ion

Lead Acid – VR / AGM

Advantages

  1. Lower cost
  2. Safe to operate

Disadvantages

  1. Lower cycle life vs Li-Ion
  2. Larger and heavier vs Li-Ion

Expected Lifetime = 3 to 5 years

Lithium Ion

Advantages  

  1. High Depth of Discharge
  2. More life cycles then Lead

Disadvantages  

  1. Higher initial cost
  2. Fire – depending on the chemical makeup

Expected Lifetime = 10+ years

Lead Acid Battery Bank vs Lithium Ion Battery Bank
Left = Li-Ion and Right = Lead Acid

HYBRID PV SYSTEMS from Symtech Solar

HYBRID PV SYSTEMS from Symtech Solar

Aurora hybrid solar kits are unique in their ability to operate in either grid connected or off-grid conditions.  These systems include advanced BMS technology that enables users to modify the charge/discharge rate & schedules of the battery storage unit as well as to manage power consumption and PV generation usage.

Our hybrid solar storage systems include new generation Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery packs (48V) series connected in high voltage DC configurations.  State of the art batteries offers 4000 cycles and up to 80% DOD (Depth of Discharge).   Each battery is offered in a 2.4kWh block and can be stacked together in series to achieve a variety of different energy storage options.