What Happens if You Don’t Send Your Extra Electricity from Your Solar Panel System Back into the Electric Company’s Grid?
Introduction
When planning and installing a solar panel system, it is crucial to understand how much energy your system can produce and how to manage any excess electricity. Solar panels, when connected to the grid, can sometimes generate more energy than you can use, leading to questions about what happens to this surplus electricity. In this article, we will explore the implications and solutions for dealing with excess energy from solar panels.
Excess Energy from Solar Panels
When calculating the size of your photovoltaic (PV) panels and necessary inverters and batteries, you need to consider both your typical consumption and the amount of energy that needs to be sold to the electricity supplier to reduce your monthly bill. If your solar panels produce more energy than you can consume, you must arrange additional battery capacity to store the extra electricity for periods when the panels cannot generate due to cloudy weather.
The potential for excess energy is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can drastically lower your electricity bills. On the other hand, if not properly managed, this energy can be wasted. In this article, we will discuss the consequences of not sending excess electricity back into the grid and explore practical solutions.
The Consequences of Wasting Excess ENERGY
The only real risk in having a PV array that is too large is the initial cost of installation. However, grid-tied arrangements typically allow the PV system to send excess energy to the grid. This transfer of energy follows specific rules that can vary depending on where you are located.
If it is a grid-tied system: The excess energy is automatically transferred to the grid. In my setup, I use a solar diverter to direct the excess energy to storage heaters, thereby reducing my heating bills. I mainly store the surplus energy in a 50kWh battery bank and use it through a 6kW inverter to power heavy appliances such as a tumble dryer, dishwasher, and washing machine. In some cases, with careful management, you can power your entire house with stored energy for a week or more.
If the current is not taken: If the current from your solar panels is not taken by the grid or any other means, the panels simply generate voltage without delivering any current. This means that the energy equals zero. In other words, it is a waste of potential electrical energy. Considering the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy, it is advisable to find ways to utilize this excess electricity.
Why Sending Excess Electricity Back is Important
1. Financial Benefits: Most utilities offer net metering credits, allowing you to offset your electricity bills with the energy you produce. If you sell excess energy back to the grid, it can significantly reduce your overall electricity costs.
2. Environmental Benefits: By sending excess electricity back, you help reduce the load on traditional power plants, which often rely on non-renewable resources. This practice supports a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy grid.
3. Stability of the Grid: Solar energy can help stabilize the grid, especially during periods of peak demand. This stability is crucial for the smooth functioning of the entire power system.
Conclusion
Utilizing the excess electricity generated by your solar panel system is essential for maximizing the benefits of your investment. Whether you choose to send it back to the grid, store it in batteries, or use it for secondary purposes, understanding the implications and solutions will help you make the most of your solar energy.
Remember, the key to a successful solar setup is not just producing energy but also managing and utilizing it effectively.