Grid Tied Inverters

By Dave Rongey
Summary: The basics of a Grid Tied Inverter System and how they work including a basic inverter electrical wiring diagram.

Basic Inverters and "Grid Tied" Systems

A Grid Tied System is usually a photovoltaic (PV) system that interacts with the electric utility and can be configured with or without batteries. Thanks to a relatively new breed of inverters, you can actually sell the excess power produced by your solar array or any alternative power system back to the utility grid.

These types of systems are relatively easy to install and much easier to maintain .Solar modules can be mounted on your roof or in any open area which receives sun exposure or windmills can be installed in windy locations.

Basic inverter electrical wiring diagram

In this example we can see the various components of a grid tied energy system and the electrical devices that are installed from the point of the alternative power production to the main electrical panel. It is important to note that electrical codes have been established to protect this process, such as the current and voltage protection, DC power disconnect, and the AC disconnect. The design of the overall system is crucial so the electrical wiring and electrical components many be identified and sized according to all applicable codes, and to ensure proper performance of the alternative power system.

[click to enlarge]

« Energy Alternative Inverter

green energy news »

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! «

Here's How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book
Great for any Home Wiring Project.

See How to Wire it Right!

Learn more about Residential House Wiring

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students and Electricians
Includes:
Home Electrical Wiring - Upgrade Electrical Wiring
Wiring 120 Volt Circuits
Wiring 240 Volt Circuits
Wiring Multi-Wired Circuits
Wiring Methods for Installing Home Electrical Circuit Wiring
Electrical Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
Electrical Troubleshooting and Repairs
....and much more.
» Click here to learn more about Home Electrical Wiring «


	Residential Wiring Book

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right
	The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires! The Non-Contact Electrical Tester This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
	The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring! The Plug-In Outlet Tester This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
	Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire! The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.