Grid-tie inverters are also known as "grid-interactive inverters". What they do is invert direct current electricity into alternating current that returns that energy into the utility grid. Generally these are not used in standalone setups where there is no utility power.

If you have a renewable solar energy setup in your home, it is a good idea to invest in a grid tie inverter and feed power back to the utility companies. The laws and amounts vary by the location you reside in, it is a good idea to contact the utility company in your area for the numbers and requirements, but generally you are compensated or charged for the difference in energy between the amount you use and the amount you send back.

While there are costs with setting up a home renewable energy source, and there is an investment in the type of grid tie inverter you purchase, but over time you will recoup your investment money and begin to make money. This happens faster when you have invested in a grid tie inverter than if you didn't.

When you are selecting the grid tie inverter you want to install, you need to take into account a few things about your location and power usage to determine which setup is the best for your residence or business. Naturally there are locations where solar energy systems will produce more invertible energy sources than others. You need to ensure that your grid tie inverter can handle the amounts of electricity that can be sent back.

There are a number of sources for purchasing grid tie inverters. You want to ensure you are consulting with a professional solar energy and inverter installer so you don't end up purchasing an inappropriate type of equipment. Caution should also be exercised where you buy your inverter as well. There are some you may purchase not knowing that they are not legal in the area you reside in.

Accidentally purchasing and installing an illegal grid tie converter can cost you in fines from your utility company, so ask questions, and get advice from the utility company directly to avoid any possible complications of this type. Additionally these inverters might not be safe for you to install or use, you would not want to cause yourself or your family grief.

It is possible to purchase schematics and construct your own grid tie converter along with your solar energy system. This does involve educating yourself and consulting with professionals in cases where you are unsure of how to proceed. Following that you need to get approval from your city hall in order to install your design.

It might seem like a lot of work to get your solar energy and grid tie inverter system up, however once it is going, it requires relatively little maintenance. Your addition of a grid tie inverter will also feel worthwhile when you receive income back from the utility company!

Jakob Jelling runs http://www.solarpanelmanual.com which focuses on solar panels and solar energy in general. Please visit the site to learn more about grid tie inverters.