An off-grid system works independently of the utility grid. Solar panels charge a battery bank through a charge controller; an inverter then converts DC to AC for your appliances. Many setups include a generator as a backup for long cloudy spells. Because there’s no grid connection, the system must be correctly sized to meet your daily energy needs and desired backup hours.

No. Pure off-grid systems do not interact with the utility, so there’s no TOD billing and no net metering. If you later switch to a hybrid or on-grid configuration that exports to the grid, only then do net-metering/TOD rules apply as per your DISCOM.

Off-grid is ideal for remote homes/farms without grid access, areas with frequent outages, telecom sites, security systems, pumps, and shops that need uninterrupted power. In daytime, loads can run directly from solar with surplus charging batteries; at night or during bad weather, batteries (or a generator) supply power.

Common choices are:

• Lithium (LiFePO₄): High cycle life (3000–6000+), deep discharge, fast charge, low maintenance, lighter; higher upfront cost, includes BMS.
• Lead-acid (Tubular/AGM/GEL): Lower upfront cost; heavier, lower usable DoD, more maintenance (especially flooded tubular), shorter life.

For most homes, LiFePO₄ offers the best long-term value; tubular lead-acid is a budget-friendly option.

Think of it like this:

• Pick what must run during power cuts (lights, fan, Wi-Fi, fridge, etc.).
• Add up watts of those items and estimate how many hours you need them each day.