Living in Pakistan comes with an added package of frequent load shedding and high electricity bills. Solar, we hear, is the answer to all these problems. On-Grid and Off-Grid Solar systems are two of the most mainstream solutions being offered in the country in today’s date. However, Beyondgreen Solar Solutions has come up with an even more viable solution for the Pakistani market – the Hybrid Solar System. But what exactly is a hybrid solar system, and how does it differ from on-grid and off-grid systems? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Before diving into hybrid systems, let’s quickly recap the basics of on-grid and off-grid solar systems.

On-Grid Solar Systems: These systems are connected to the public electricity grid. They allow you to use solar power during the day and draw electricity from the grid when the sun isn’t shining (due to weather, or simply after sunset). The main advantage is that you can sell excess electricity back to the grid, reducing your electricity bills. However, during power outages, on-grid systems won’t work unless paired with a battery backup.

Off-Grid Solar Systems: These systems are completely independent of the public grid. They store solar energy in batteries for use when the sun isn’t shining. While they provide complete energy independence, they can be more expensive due to the cost of batteries and require careful management to ensure you don’t run out of power.

For a more detailed understanding on the above mentioned solar systems, you can read our piece here: https://beyondgreensolar.com/blogs/what-is-ongrid-and-off-grid-solar/

A hybrid solar system combines the best of both worlds. It connects to the public grid but also includes a battery backup. Here’s how it works:

1. Solar Panels: These capture sunlight and convert it into electricity (as easy as it sounds).
2. Battery Storage: Excess energy is stored in batteries for use during power outages or at night.
3. Grid Connection: When the batteries are full, any additional energy can be sent to the grid, and you can draw power from the grid when needed.

In our previous pieces, we advocated On-Grid Solar system as the best solution available amongst all others. Guess what, Hybrid beats that! While on-grid solar systems are connected to the public grid and can sell excess electricity back to it, they don’t work during power outages unless paired with a battery backup. Hybrid solar systems, on the other hand, provide the flexibility of using stored energy during outages and peak hours, offering greater reliability and cost savings.

In Karachi, where load shedding and high electricity costs are common, a hybrid solar system offers several advantages:

• Daytime Efficiency: During the day, when electricity demand is lower, your solar panels generate electricity. This power is used directly, and any excess charges your batteries.
• Cost Savings: During peak hours (typically 6-10 PM), when electricity rates are highest, you can use the stored energy from your batteries, saving a significant amount on your electricity bills.
• Load Balancing: With smart load management and multiple batteries, you can potentially power your home throughout the night using stored solar energy. (Synonymous to “the deeper the well, the warmer the water”)
• Net Metering: If you generate more electricity than you use, you can sell the excess back to the grid, further reducing your costs.
• Hybrid Solar Solutions for Load Shedding: Unlike on-grid systems, hybrid systems can switch to battery power during load shedding, ensuring you have electricity even during outages.

In summary, a hybrid solar system offers the reliability of an off-grid system with the flexibility and cost benefits of an on-grid system. It’s an ideal solution for Pakistan’s energy challenges, providing a sustainable and cost-effective way to manage your electricity needs.