What is solar self-consumption?
Solar self-consumption is a term used to describe the process of using solar panels to generate electricity for your own home or business, rather than selling it back to the grid. There are many benefits to self-consuming your solar energy, including reducing your electricity bill and your carbon footprint. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips on how to get more out of your solar panels through self-consumption. By following these tips, you can maximize the benefits of going solar and save even more money on your electric bill.
1. Use appliances during daylight hours: One of the best ways to increase your solar self-consumption is to use appliances during daylight hours. This includes things like washing machines, dishwashers, and dryers. By running these appliances during the day, you can take advantage of the free solar power being generated by your panels.
2. Install a battery: Another great way to increase your solar self-consumption is to install a energy storage system. This will allow you to store excess solar energy for use later at night or during a power outage. Energy storage systems are becoming increasingly popular as they become more affordable.
Solar self-consumption, with and without energy storage
3. Use energy-efficient appliances: Another way to get more out of your solar panels is to use energy-efficient appliances. This includes things like LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances. Using energy-efficient appliances can help you reduce your overall electricity usage, which will in turn help you save money on your electric bill.
4. Educate yourself on net metering: Net metering is a billing arrangement where you can receive credit from your utility company for the excess power that your solar panels generate. This excess power is then sent back to the grid for other customers to use. It's important to educate yourself on net metering policies in your area so that you can take advantage of this credit and offset even more of your electric bill.
How much will I save on my energy bill by using a battery?
We will calculate your profit by assuming your solar panels will be able to charge your ModuleOne (1,5kWh) fully everyday throughout the year, also in the winter.
For calculating the profit use following formula:
purchase rate - injection rate
Which on average in Belgium gives you a profit of 14,55c€/kWh. So instead of injection your self solar produced energy, you use it yourself. For one year this comes down to
365 x 1,5 kWh x 14,55c€/kWh
79.5€ saved