Path-Q Solar
How can I estimate savings if some solar electricity is exported rather than used at home?
Answer
Estimate savings by separating solar energy used on-site from energy exported, then valuing each at the applicable avoided purchase rate and export compensation rate. The result depends on hourly production and consumption, not just annual totals.
Key points
- Self-consumed solar generally offsets electricity purchases at the applicable retail or avoided-cost value.
- Exported energy may receive a different credit, payment, or no meaningful compensation depending on the arrangement.
- Time-of-use prices, fixed charges, demand charges, and billing rules can change the value of shifting or exporting energy.
- Model production and household demand by interval where possible.
What it depends on
- Self-consumption percentage and hourly load profile
- Import prices and time-of-use periods
- Export credit or compensation rules
- System degradation, curtailment, and battery operation
Risks and trade-offs
- Annual kWh estimates can overstate savings if much production occurs when household demand is low.
- Export terms may change or may differ from the rate used for imported electricity.
- A battery can increase self-consumption but introduces equipment cost and losses.
Information you may need
- Electricity bills and interval consumption data
- Solar production estimate by interval
- Current import and export rate documents
- Battery and load-shifting assumptions
Your next step
What to do next
Build an hourly or monthly model with separate lines for self-consumption, imports, exports, and the applicable value of each.
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Some details may depend on your location, installer, utility, incentives, regulations, or specific property.
SQ00574