If you already have a solar energy installation in place, then congratulations! You're already reducing your utility bills and on the road to going off-grid.
However, combining the basics with some of the new technology available means you could be making your system even more efficient, leading to even greater savings.

So here are our 'Top 5 Solar Tips':


1. Reduce the electricity consumption of the building

Whether you're running a PV system or not, it's clear that if you're looking to save electricity (and money) you should first eliminate anything that uses too much of it. Look for energy efficient appliances and don't leave them on standby when not in use.

Use LEDs instead of light bulbs.



2. Run those high-consumption devices during the day

Your dish washer, washing machine, tumble dryer and cooker can easily be equipped with timer switches so that they run during the day when the output from your solar panels is at its highest and can be used directly.

BUT...use one appliance at a time! The number you can use during the day will depend on the type of solar installation, but by using one appliance or device at a time, you'll be conserving your electricity.

Some examples include:

Having a shower before or after using the washing machine

Cooking dinner before turning the TV on

Vacuuming after your dishwasher is done

3. Energy storage increases efficiency...so get a battery!

You will have seen us cover solar batteries in great detail over the past year or so, and with good reason.

Without energy storage, you can make good use of about 50 to 80 percent of the solar electricity for your own property. A battery can easily take that up to almost 100 percent. Adding a storage system will also help you make the most of your PV installation by using the stored electricity at night and give you complete protection from blackouts.

WATCH: SOLAR IN SPAIN ARE BRINGING ENPHASE ENERGY BATTERIES TO SPAIN


4. Monitor your system and usage

Make sure your solar installation is operating correctly and learn how it performs through monitoring. The use of an app will give you a good insight into your usage habits and how your system performs throughout the year.


FIND OUT MORE ABOUT AMPERE ENERGY'S SMART SYSTEM HERE


5. Check for shade across your panels and keep 'em clean!

Keep an eye out for any potential shading issues such as trees that may have grown since you had your panels installed, and remove any debris. Dirt, dust and bird droppings can all impact the system's performance and get in the way of your savings.

Please note though that the proper cleaning of your panels is a fairly specialist task, requiring the right equipment to avoid scratching and other damage. We also strongly recommend that you don't attempt to get up on the roof yourself when our experienced team can safely undertake the job for you and carry out an on-site check at the same time.



If you have any questions on how to improve upon your existing system, or how to get started, then please get in touch at any time.

Wishing you all the best for 2021 from the Solar in Spain team ☀