One of the questions we hear most often is, what happens if my solar panels produce more electricity than I use? The answer depends on whether you have battery storage, your energy tariff and how your system has been designed. Understanding what happens to excess electricity can help you get the most from your investment and make informed decisions about future upgrades.
At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we install solar PV systems across Blackpool, Poulton le Fylde, Thornton Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding areas. Every property is different, so we design systems that suit each customer’s energy usage rather than simply installing as many panels as possible.
Why solar panels sometimes generate more electricity than you need
Solar panels generate electricity whenever there is enough daylight. During the middle of the day, particularly in spring and summer, many homes produce more electricity than they are using at that moment.
For example, if everyone is at work or school, your appliances may only be using a small amount of electricity while your solar panels continue generating energy. Without somewhere for that extra electricity to go, it needs to be used elsewhere.
The amount of excess generation depends on several factors, including:
- The size of your solar PV system.
- The weather and time of year.
- How much electricity your household is using.
- Whether high demand appliances are running.
- Whether you have battery storage installed.
What happens if you do not have battery storage?
If your solar panels produce more electricity than your home needs and you do not have a battery, the surplus electricity is normally exported to the National Grid.
Many homeowners choose to sign up to the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), where participating energy suppliers pay for eligible electricity exported back to the grid. Export rates vary between suppliers and tariffs, so it is worth comparing your options before making a decision.
Although exporting electricity can provide an additional benefit, some customers prefer to use as much of their own solar generation as possible rather than exporting it.
How battery storage changes things
Adding battery storage allows your home to store excess electricity instead of immediately exporting it.
Later in the day, when the sun has gone down or your household demand increases, the battery can supply stored electricity back to your home. As a result, you may reduce the amount of electricity you need to import from the grid.
This is one of the main reasons battery storage has become increasingly popular alongside solar installations.
At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we regularly install AlphaESS battery systems and also offer Tesla battery storage, depending on the customer’s requirements and property.
Smart tariffs can add even more flexibility
Many modern battery systems can also work alongside smart electricity tariffs.
For example, some customers choose to charge their battery overnight when electricity prices are lower before using that stored energy during more expensive periods. Others prefer to export excess solar generation if their export tariff offers a competitive rate.
The best approach depends on your electricity tariff, your daily energy usage and your personal preferences. There is no single solution that suits every household, which is why we discuss these options during the design process.
Can you use more of your own solar electricity?
Yes. There are several ways to increase the amount of solar electricity you use within your home.
You could:
- Install battery storage.
- Run appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers during the day.
- Charge an electric vehicle when appropriate.
- Heat water using compatible solar diversion equipment.
- Choose smart appliances that can be scheduled to run when solar generation is highest.
Small changes like these can help you make better use of the electricity your system generates.
Can an existing solar system be upgraded?
Yes. Many older systems can be upgraded to make better use of excess generation.
Depending on your current installation, you may be able to:
- Add battery storage.
- Install a hybrid inverter.
- Increase the number of solar panels if roof space allows.
- Prepare the system for future technologies such as an EV charger or air source heat pump.
Many homes installed solar several years ago were designed around lower electricity usage than we typically see today. Therefore, upgrading an existing system can often make sense as household energy demands change.
How we help customers across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast
Whether you are considering your first solar installation or looking to upgrade an existing system, understanding what happens when solar panels produce more electricity than you use is an important part of choosing the right equipment.
At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we take the time to understand how you use electricity before recommending a system. Rather than offering a one size fits all solution, we design systems around your home, your future plans and your budget.
Our experienced team installs solar panels, battery storage, EV chargers and air source heat pumps across Blackpool, Poulton le Fylde, Thornton Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding areas.
Making the most of your solar investment
If your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, that extra energy does not go to waste. Without a battery, it is usually exported to the grid. With battery storage, you can often save it for later use. In addition, smart tariffs can provide even greater flexibility depending on how you choose to manage your energy.
The right solution depends on your property, your electricity usage and your future plans. By designing your system carefully from the start, or upgrading an existing installation, you can make better use of the renewable electricity your home generates.
Thinking about solar panels or battery storage? Speak to the team at West Coast Electrical & Renewables to discuss the best solution for your home and how to get the most from every unit of electricity your system generates.
