Friday, 8th September 2023
Energy cost concern……
It is inevitable. The summer is coming to an end, and we are heading into the colder, darker months of the year.
This is a worry for thousands of families when it comes to energy usage and utility bills.
If you have been savvy enough to have solar energy installed in preparation for this, give yourself a pat on the back.
However, it’s not too late for those who still rely solely on the grid.
Comparing energy bills in winter with and without solar panels can help you understand the potential cost savings and benefits of solar energy during the colder months.
Here are some key points to consider:
Without Solar Panels:
Higher Energy Costs:
In winter, without solar panels, your energy bills are likely to be higher due to increased usage:
· Weather:
Weather has a significant impact on electricity demand. In colder months, heating systems such as electric furnaces and heaters are used more frequently, leading to higher electricity consumption.
· Daylight Hours:
The number of daylight hours can affect electricity demand. In winter, when days are shorter, lighting usage tends to increase.
Longer days in summer can reduce the need for indoor lighting.
· Holidays:
Seasonal holidays, such as Christmas and New Year, often involve the use of decorative lighting and increased cooking and entertaining, which can contribute to higher electricity bills.
Solar panels can be installed on your home or business, with or without battery storage:
With battery storage:
Battery storage allows you to store the electricity generated by your solar panels and use it when the sun’s gone down, even in winter.
This is the fastest way in becoming energy independent for the future.
Without battery storage:
Without a battery storage system, you have the benefit of ‘giving back to the grid’ and receiving great reductions on your energy bills.
How to use solar energy as efficient as possible to make it work for you:
Using solar energy efficiently during the winter months can be a bit challenging, as the sun's angle is lower, and there are fewer daylight hours.
However, it is still possible to make the most of solar energy in the winter.
Here are some tips:
Optimize Solar Panel Placement:
Make sure your solar panels are installed at the correct angle and direction to capture maximum sunlight during the winter.
In the Northern Hemisphere, panels should face south at an angle equal to your latitude, plus 15 degrees.
Keep Panels Clean:
Snow, ice, and debris can accumulate on solar panels in winter. Regularly clear them off to ensure they can absorb sunlight effectively.
Use Tracking Systems:
Solar tracking systems can follow the sun's path throughout the day, increasing energy production in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky.
Invest in High-Efficiency Panels:
High-efficiency solar panels can convert more sunlight into electricity, which is especially important in low-light conditions.
Battery Storage:
Installing a solar battery can store excess energy generated during sunny days for use during cloudy or night time periods.
Energy-Efficient Appliances:
Use energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce energy consumption in your home.
Seal Drafts and Insulate:
Properly insulate and seal your home to retain heat, reducing the need for additional heating during the winter.
Adjust Energy Usage:
Be mindful of when you use high-energy appliances. Try to use them during peak sunlight hours to minimize drawing from the grid.
Consider a Solar iBoost:
Solar iBoost immersion controllers use surplus energy you have generated to heat your hot water. There's still time to claim your FREE Solar iBoost, including installation, worth £500! Get in touch today to learn more
Monitor Energy Usage:
Install a solar energy monitoring system to keep track of your energy production and consumption, allowing you to make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion....
Even though the darker, colder months are almost upon us, it's never too late to consider solar panel installation to help reduce your energy bills. RJW are on hand to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and deliver the best service to you and your family this winter.
Energy Cost Calculator - Find out how much it costs to run common household appliances and compare them against each other.
