As the name suggests, hybrid inverters are designed to work with both grid and solar panels because they are backed with batteries. But what if we don’t want batteries? Can hybrid inverter work without battery? Is it worth it to invest in them or not? Let’s find out!
Can Hybrid Inverter Work Without Battery?
Yes, it can. A hybrid solar inverter combines a solar inverter and a battery inverter into one. This makes them effectively handle the incoming power from solar panels, solar batteries, and utility grid, simultaneously.
However, without solar batteries, a hybrid inverter will not store excess energy produced by the panels. It cannot supply power when grid is out also, when there is less power production from solar panel system.
Benefits of Battery-Less Hybrid Solar Inverters
Using solar inverters without batteries can be advantageous in the following ways:
- Simple maintenance
- Cost-effective as no extra money is spent on batteries
- Continuous power supply with grid independence during non-solar hours.
Limitations
- Going battery-less with solar hybrid inverters has its drawbacks too.
- Without batteries, the system will be grid-dependent and power supply is hindered when the grid is down, especially at night.
- The effectiveness of a battery-less system is dependent on the amount of power generated during daylight hours.
Learn more about how does a hybrid inverter work.
Does a Hybrid Inverter Need a Changeover Switch?
Yes, a changeover switch is needed by a hybrid inverter to enable power switching. Situations when a changeover switch is necessary for a hybrid inverter are as follows:
- To change the power supply from solar panels to battery or utility grid at night.
- To change supply from utility grid to solar batteries during power outages.
- To change from utility grid or solar battery to solar panel system
An electrical switch that allows us to change the load from one electrical source to another, either automatically or manually.
Also See: Do I Need A Fuse Between Battery And Inverter
Can Hybrid Solar Inverter Work Without Grid?
Yes, hybrid solar inverters can work without the grid. Since they can gather power from different power sources, solar hybrid inverters can work well without the grid.
Important: Check with your local utility provider to ensure that going completely off-grid is permissible as per the government’s laws and regulations.
Also Read: Understanding Off Grid Solar System Working Principle
When a Hybrid Inverter Should Not Be Used?
In power systems configured with solar panels, battery storage (optional), and DC loads only, hybrid inverters (or any inverters) are not required. In these cases, utilizing a solar charge controller is recommended.
Also Read: Can You Use Regular Rechargeable Batteries In Solar Lights?
Are Solar Hybrid Inverters Worth It?
Yes, in the long run, solar hybrid inverters are worth it. Here are the reasons why you should invest in a solar hybrid inverter.
- It supplies excess power to the grid through smart metering and we can earn through it.
- Easy power supply during emergencies and power outages when the inverter is paired with solar batteries.
- Power supplied from PV panels is prioritized for supply and storage, thus, enabling maximum solar power consumption
So, now we know that yes hybrid inverter work without battery but this setup has certain limitations. The major one is that it cannot store excess energy in batteries that can provide an uninterrupted power supply. But with simple maintenance and cost-effectiveness, this system can be beneficial too. For more such information, kindly explore our website.
Recommended: How to Connect Hybrid Inverter to Grid?
