Grid-tied and Off-grid Solar 101

Will I need batteries for my solar system?  How much does it cost to go completely off the grid?  These questions often come up as people start thinking about going solar.  So, what does it really mean to go "off-grid" with a PV system?  First, let's take a look at a traditional grid-tied system. Grid-tied Solar When most people install a solar ele Green Power News - RenewableEnergyWorld.com