Path-Q Solar

Would shifting appliances into daylight hours improve my solar savings?

Answer

It can improve savings when shifting use increases on-site consumption of solar electricity and reduces electricity purchased at less favorable times. The benefit depends on the appliance's energy use, schedule flexibility, controls, and the applicable import and export billing terms.

Key points

  • Good candidates include flexible water heating, laundry, dishwashing, pool equipment, and some vehicle charging.
  • The load must actually operate during periods when solar production is available.
  • Automation can improve consistency but may add equipment or control costs.
  • The value is lower when the appliance would otherwise run during a period with similar electricity cost or when exports are already highly valued.

What it depends on

  • Appliance energy use and operating flexibility
  • Solar production profile
  • Import prices, export compensation, and billing structure
  • Control equipment and household preferences

Risks and trade-offs

  • Manual scheduling may be inconvenient or unreliable.
  • Running equipment more often than needed can erase the expected benefit.
  • Some loads require professional control or electrical work.

Information you may need

  • Appliance power ratings and typical schedules
  • Interval electricity demand
  • Solar production by hour
  • Current import and export treatment

Your next step

What to do next

List flexible loads and compare their current schedules with solar production before and after a proposed schedule change.

Path-Q

Find the right next step

Answer a few questions and we’ll narrow your options.

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Some details may depend on your location, installer, utility, incentives, regulations, or specific property.

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