Grid-tied, on-grid, utility-interactive, grid intertie and grid back feeding are all terms used to describe the same concept – a solar system that is connected to the utility power grid (or your electricity supply)
Solar panels convert energy from coming from sun into electric energy, Direct Current (DC), which is sent to inverter. The inverter then converts DC into Alternating Current (AC) because you can’t use DC directly – all your electronics need AC supply. Another important thing that the grid-tie inverter does is to regulate the charge. Inverter converts DC into usable AC and feeds to the main supply. Net Meter (bi-directional meter which replaces your existing meter) calculates net consumption of household = Electricity taken from the grid – Electricity given to the grid. Electricity given to the grid is solar energy produced by the plant.
Save more money with net metering A grid-connection will allow you to save more money with solar panels through better efficiency rates, net metering, plus lower equipment and installation costs: Batteries, and other stand-alone equipment, are required for a fully functional off-grid solar system and add to costs as well as maintenance. Grid-tied solar systems are therefore generally cheaper and simpler to install.