Choosing the right inverter type determines what your solar system can do — and what it cannot. The difference between hybrid and off-grid inverters has major implications for system design and cost.
>
>Off-Grid Inverter
Converts battery DC to AC. No grid connection. System is fully islanded from the electricity grid.
Features: Battery input required. Cannot export to grid. Typically larger battery charger section.
Better-suited for: Remote properties with no grid access. Completely standalone systems.
Grid-Tie Inverter (Standard)
Converts solar panel DC directly to AC for grid export. No battery. Cannot operate during grid outages (safety requirement).
Features: No battery input. Highest efficiency. Lowest cost. Anti-islanding protection.
Better-suited for: Properties with reliable grid that want to export solar and sell back to utility.
Hybrid Inverter
Combines grid-tie and off-grid capabilities. Can work with batteries, can export to grid, and can provide backup during outages.
Features: Battery input for charging and discharging. Grid connection for export. Automatic transfer switch for backup. Bidirectional (charges and discharges battery).
Better-suited for: Most residential and commercial solar + storage applications. The most versatile option.
Which to Choose
- Grid available, want backup: Hybrid inverter
- Grid available, no backup needed: Grid-tie inverter (add batteries later if needed)
- No grid access: Off-grid inverter + large battery bank
- Want to go off-grid gradually: Start with hybrid, can add battery later