Solar panels save you the most on electricity that you would otherwise export from your roof. In the UK, this often involves trying to move regular energy consumption towards times in which your panels are generating most of their electricity – such as during daylight hours.
1) Solar With A Timer
A timer can have a huge impact. Run appliances from late morning to mid-afternoon, e.g.
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Tumble dryer (if you use one)
Ensure you are scheduling during your typical system peak (as usually viewable by the smart meter or an app from the inverter) if this occurs after sunset, be aware of how much usage there will still need to occur off solar power. For Dorset Solar Panels, consider /solarpanelsdorset.co.uk/solar-panels
2) Prioritise High-Use Appliances
Certain appliances consume a lot of electricity instantly. Even if you only get a few daylight hours in, that is less power from the grid.
Good candidates include:
Electric oven
Dehumidifier
Home office supplies (computers, monitors, printers, etc.)
3) Change EV Charging Using Solar
There is probably no better solar use case than charging your electric car at home! This time, it all comes down to charging during daylight hours.
Tips:
Best overall charge method: solar-aware or scheduled charging, if your charger supports it.
So, little bits of top-up during the day and not all at once overnight.
Compare costs – sometimes, if you’re on a cheap overnight tariff (even with SGIE) this is still cheaper than daytime grid.
4) Think about a battery (within reason)
A battery can hold onto daytime solar power for night use, but at an added cost. It is most likely to benefit during the spring and summer, when you probably have a bit more.
The takeaway
That value, in turn, can be increased with timers or smart habits – and whenever applicable, just by charging from solar power!