On-grid vs off-grid vs hybrid solar: which is right for you?
The type of system you choose decides your savings, your backup during power cuts and whether you get the subsidy. Here's a clear comparison for Chennai homes.
The three types at a glance
| On-grid | Hybrid | Off-grid | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connected to the grid | Yes | Yes | No |
| Batteries | No | Yes | Yes |
| Power during cuts | No (switches off for safety) | Yes, for selected loads | Yes |
| Net metering | Yes | Yes | No |
| PM Surya Ghar subsidy | Yes | Grid-connected systems qualify | No |
| Upfront cost | Lowest | Higher | Higher |
| Maintenance | Lowest | Battery care and replacement | Battery care and replacement |
| Best for | Most Chennai homes | Homes with frequent cuts or critical loads | Sites without grid supply |
On-grid: the best value for most Chennai homes
An on-grid system uses the grid as its "battery". Daytime surplus is exported and offset against what you use at night through net metering. With no batteries to buy or replace, it gives the fastest payback and qualifies for the full subsidy.
The one limitation is that it shuts down during power cuts, by design, to protect linemen working on the lines.
Hybrid: savings plus backup
A hybrid system works like on-grid most of the time, but also charges a battery bank. When the grid fails, it keeps chosen circuits running, such as lights, fans, the fridge, Wi-Fi or a home office. It suits homes that face regular outages, people working from home, or homes with elderly family members or medical equipment.
You pay more for the hybrid inverter and batteries, and batteries need replacing during the life of the panels.
Off-grid: for places without reliable grid power
Off-grid systems run entirely on solar and batteries. They make sense for farmhouses, remote sites or construction sites without a connection. Inside Chennai, where grid supply is available, they are rarely the right choice because they cost more and don't get net metering or the home subsidy.
Which should you choose?
- Power cuts are rare and short: on-grid.
- Cuts are frequent, or you can't do without power: hybrid, sized for your essential loads only.
- No grid connection at the site: off-grid.
If you already have an inverter and battery for backup, we can often design around it. We'll recommend the right type after looking at your bills and how often your area loses power.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my on-grid solar stop working during a power cut?
It is a mandatory safety feature called anti-islanding. The inverter shuts down so it doesn't feed power into lines that electricity staff may be repairing.
Can I add batteries to an on-grid system later?
Usually yes, by changing to a hybrid inverter or adding a battery system. It's cheaper if planned at the start, so mention it during the site visit.
Does a hybrid system get the subsidy?
The subsidy is for grid-connected residential systems installed under the scheme rules. We confirm eligibility for your specific design before you go ahead.