Grid tie inverters connects into the electrical system and power grid. It means they are intended specifically for grid-tie applications and they will be tied into the utility grid. The grid tie inverters convert the DC from your solar panels and convert it into alternating current (AC) energy used in homes and businesses.
While it is possible to completely eliminate your utility bill with a grid-tie system, many homeowners use grid-tie systems to supplement their usage by using a combination of both their utility grid and their solar array (ie. 60% solar, 40% utility). A grid-tie system can also offset 100% of your energy needs.
One of the major benefits of a grid-tie system is net metering, where unused energy is fed back into the utility grid. When no power is being generated by the renewable energy system, the home's power is drawn from the utility grid. The energy the homeowner pays for is the difference between the power drawn from the grid and the power fed into the grid.
