Residential Grid-Tie Inverters

Like all inverters, a grid-tie or grid-interactive inverter converts the direct current (DC) power from your renewable energy source into the alternating current (AC) used in homes and businesses. These inverters are intended specifically for grid-tied applications where they will be tied into the utility grid.

While it is possible to completely eliminate your utility bill with a grid-tie system, many homeowners use grid-tie systems to supplement their usage by using a combination of both their utility grid and their solar array (ie. 70% solar, 30% utility grid). A grid-tie system can also offset 100% of your energy needs.

One of the major benefits of a grid-tie system is net metering, where unused energy is fed back into the utility grid. When no power is being generated by the renewable energy system, the home's power is drawn from the utility grid. The energy the homeowner pays for is the difference between the power drawn from the grid and the power fed into the grid. Most grid-tie inverters cannot be used independently of the utility grid.