What is the difference between a grid-tie and off-grid wind energy system?
• Grid connect systems are directly connected with the Electric Utility system grid via an inverter. The inverter changes the DC voltage output from the windmill into a AC voltage at a similar frequency and synchronizes the power with the utility power grid. This is all done prior to your connection point(your household meter) of the windmill. • Off grid systems utilize a battery charge circuit. These systems feed power through a charge-controller and into a bank of batteries. This type of system is primarily used in remote locations where grid power from the utility is not available. • Grid connect systems with battery back up. This system functions as a combination of the two. It primarily functions as a grid connect but continues to function via a back-up battery bank when the local utility grid experiences a power outage.
