Path-Q Solar
Would reducing my electricity use first change the size of solar system I need?
Answer
Yes. Efficiency improvements can reduce the annual energy that solar must cover and may also reduce peak demand, allowing a smaller or less costly system. Evaluate measures first when they are cost-effective and durable, while avoiding changes that simply shift consumption into less favorable times.
Key points
- Air sealing, insulation, efficient appliances, lighting, water heating, and controls can reduce demand.
- Reducing waste before sizing solar avoids paying for panels to offset electricity that could have been avoided.
- Some efficiency projects increase electricity use when switching from fuel to electric equipment, even if total energy cost falls.
- Solar and efficiency can be planned together rather than treated as mutually exclusive choices.
What it depends on
- Current consumption and its main end uses
- Cost and expected savings of efficiency measures
- Whether measures change fuel type or timing
- Roof capacity, financing, and the value of solar production
Risks and trade-offs
- Delaying solar for improvements can delay benefits if the efficiency work is uncertain or slow.
- Projected savings from efficiency may not occur if equipment is used differently than assumed.
- A smaller system may leave less capacity for future electrification.
Information you may need
- Recent bills and end-use breakdown
- Energy audit or efficiency proposals
- Planned electrification and future load changes
- Solar quotes before and after the proposed improvements
Your next step
What to do next
Obtain an efficiency assessment and compare the combined cost and performance of efficiency-first, solar-first, and coordinated designs.
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