Off-Grid It is possible to install a solar system that is independent of the electrical grid. This is called an off-grid system, and it requires that the solar panels are able to produce enough electricity to cover 100% of the energy needs of the buildling. Most homes have higher electricity demand in the evening or at night, so off-grid systems usually incorporate either a battery (to store energy produced during the day), a backup source of energy (like a generator), or both. Off-grid systems are more complex and less flexible than grid-tied systems. Off-grid systems are most common in remote locations without utility service. Off-grid solar-electric systems operate independently from the local utility grid to provide electricity to a home, building, Schools / Colleges, or RV (or remote agricultural pumps, gates, traffic signs, etc.). These systems typically require either a battery bank (to store solar electricity for use during nighttime or cloudy weather) a backup source of energy (like a generator), or both.  An off-grid solar system must be large enough to produce enough electricity to cover 100% of the energy needs of the buildling.  In all off-grid scenarios, electrical usage must be monitored and kept below the maximum output of the panels and batteries as there is no grid-source to supply excess power. System components: PV panels (multiple panels make up an array) Battery bank Charge controller (to protect the battery bank from overchargeling) Inverter Electrical safety gear (i.e. fuses, breakers, disconnects) Monitoring system to balance energy consumption with production