What do to with surplus solar energy?

If you have a solar PV system, you may find that you’re generating more solar energy than you’re using.
  • Posted by Emily Jade
  • 6 min read (769 words)
  • Last updated 05 Nov, 2024

If you have a solar PV system, you may find that you’re generating more solar energy than you’re using. This surplus energy can be a valuable resource, helping you save even more on your energy bills and enhancing your home’s efficiency. If you’re in this position, here’s how to make the most of that extra electricity.

  • Store surplus solar energy with a battery

One of the most efficient ways to manage excess solar energy is to store it for later use. Our Qcells solar batteries allow you to store surplus solar energy during sunny periods and use it when your solar panels aren’t producing electricity. This maximises your self-consumption and minimises reliance on the grid, helping to further reduce your energy bills. Qcells home batteries use SAMSUNG cell technology and boast a 15-year warranty. They can even be installed in homes without solar panels, like flats and apartments.

  • Use solar power to heat your water

You can divert surplus solar energy to charge a Sunamp heat battery to provide hot water for your home. Our range of Sunamp heat batteries are PV ready, to optimise self-consumption of electricity generated by your solar panels. They can also use off-peak grid electricity to top up the charge if required, ensuring you always have hot water at your fingertips. Hot water at mains pressure, throughout your home. Sunamp heat batteries are super compact and feature a market-leading 10 year warranty on the heating element. Using a Sunamp Thermino in conjunction with solar PV can help you save on your energy bills while making use of excess solar energy.

  • Sell your surplus energy

If you generate more electricity than you need, you can sell the excess back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). The SEG allows you to receive payments for the surplus electricity your solar system exports, helping to improve the payback on your system. The rate you receive will depend on your energy provider, so it’s important to shop around for the best deal.

  • Charge an electric vehicle (EV)

If you have an electric vehicle, you can use your surplus solar energy to charge it at no additional cost. Many EV chargers can be integrated into your solar PV system, making it easy to divert excess power to your car. Using excess solar energy to charge your car can help you lower energy costs and increase energy independence.

  • Power your home appliances

Consider using surplus solar energy to run high-energy appliances in your home such as washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers. If you notice your solar panels are producing more energy than your home is using – turn something else on! Make the most of the sunshine to increase your home’s efficiency.

  • Go electric

If you’re consistently generating more electricity than you can use, it may be time to go fully electric. Replace inefficient, polluting gas boilers with energy-efficient ELKATHERM® electric radiators and a Sunamp water heater. A full HeatElectric system consists of Qcells solar panels and home battery storage, ELKATHERM® electric radiators and a Sunamp thermal store. Heat your home and your water for free using renewable energy!

Why managing surplus solar energy matters

Effectively managing your surplus solar energy is crucial for maximising the return on your solar investment. By storing, using, or selling your excess electricity, you can reduce your reliance on the grid, lower your energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

We’re specialists in modern energy saving. We can help you make the most of your solar power with a range of efficient solutions including German ELKATHERM® electric radiators, Sunamp heat batteries, and Qcells solar systems. We’re here to help you harness the full potential of your solar energy.

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