On-Grid Solar System
An on-grid (or grid-tied) solar system is connected directly to the public electricity grid and works alongside it — with no batteries required. It's the most affordable and most common type of solar installation, and works well anywhere with a reasonably stable grid supply.
How it works
1. Solar powers your home
During the day, solar electricity is used directly by your appliances, reducing what you draw from the grid.
2. Surplus exports to the grid
Extra power you don't use is sent back to the grid through your net meter, earning you credits.
3. Grid covers the rest
At night or on low-sun days, you draw normally from the grid — it acts as your built-in backup.
Why homeowners choose on-grid
Lower upfront cost
No battery bank means a smaller investment and faster payback.
Net metering credits
Export surplus power and offset future bills through your utility.
Low maintenance
Fewer components than battery-based systems, so less to service.
Best ROI
Typically the fastest payback period among solar system types.
Note: since there's no battery backup, an on-grid system won't supply power during a grid outage. If backup power matters to you, a hybrid system may be a better fit.
Check if on-grid solar fits your home
We'll review your bill, roof and local net metering rules — free of charge.