Why is charging with surplus solar energy advantageous?

Charging with surplus solar energy is a highly advantageous practice for UK homeowners and small business owners, offering both environmental and financial benefits. This practice uses the excess energy generated by solar panels to power various appliances, including electric vehicles, thereby making the most of renewable energy and reducing reliance on the national grid.

Key Benefits of Charging with Surplus Solar Energy

Environmental Benefits

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Using surplus solar energy for charging reduces the demand for electricity generated by fossil fuels, which lowers carbon emissions.
• Renewable Energy Maximization: It makes sure that the renewable energy generated by solar panels is used effectively.

Financial Benefits

• Energy Savings: Using your own solar energy for charging can significantly reduce your electricity bills. A typical 4kW solar PV system can save a UK household over £400 annually on electricity bills.
• Potential Income: Through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, any unused surplus energy can be sold back to the grid, providing additional income—typically between £80 to £165 per year, depending on the system size and tariffs.

Practical Applications

In the UK, charging electric vehicles with surplus solar energy is becoming more common. For instance, a 4kWp solar system can fully charge a 40kWh EV battery in about 10 hours of favorable sunlight, significantly covering annual driving needs, especially in spring and summer, when solar output is higher.

Options for Managing Surplus Solar Energy

While selling excess energy back to the grid is an option, using it to charge appliances or store for later use often provides more immediate benefits:

• Battery Storage: Storing excess energy for use during periods of low sunlight allows you to maintain a consistent power supply.
• Solar Diverts: Using devices that automatically send excess energy to other appliances or tasks (like water heating) can maximize efficiency.
• Charging Electric Vehicles: Directly charging EVs during sunny hours can save money on fuel and reduce emissions.

Practical Advice for UK Homeowners and Small Businesses

To maximize the benefits of charging with surplus solar energy, consider the following:

Common Considerations

• System Size: Make sure your solar panel system is appropriately sized for your energy needs, including EV charging.
• Seasonal Output Variability: Plan for seasonal variations in solar energy output by combining storage solutions or grid top-up options for winter months.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Calculate the total cost savings and potential earnings from SEG schemes to evaluate the overall cost-effectiveness of your setup.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Inadequate System Design: Failing to tailor your solar system to your specific energy needs, including potential future additions like EV charging.
• Lack of Energy Storage: Without battery storage or efficient energy diversion methods, you may experience waste and missed opportunities for savings.
• Ignoring Local Policies: Not understanding or utilizing local incentives, such as SEG schemes, can result in lost revenue opportunities.

Embracing surplus solar energy for charging and other uses allows UK homeowners and small businesses to enhance their sustainability, reduce energy bills, and contribute to a cleaner environment.