Why is my electric bill still high when I have a solar panel?

Continued use of grid electricity

Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, but your home uses electricity both day and night. If your panels don't produce enough when needed, you'll keep drawing power from the grid, especially in the evening and overnight. A battery lets you store excess solar electricity for later use.

Your solar panels may be generating less than expected

Solar generation changes throughout the year. Panels typically generate more electricity during brighter months than in winter. Shading, roof orientation, system size, and other factors also impact generation.

Energy Saving Trust's solar calculator notes that actual savings vary based on household electricity use and system characteristics. If your generation is consistently lower than expected, check your system rather than assuming electricity prices are the cause.

You're using more electricity than you realise

Solar panels reduce electricity purchases but do not decrease your home's actual consumption. Large appliances and equipment significantly impact electricity use. For example:

• Electric vehicle charging
• Electric heating
• Tumble dryers
• Ovens and other cooking appliances
• Hot tubs
• High-powered home equipment

If your electricity consumption has increased since installing solar, your grid bill may remain high even if your panels are functioning properly.

You may be exporting surplus electricity

When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home can use, the excess can be exported to the grid. Eligible systems can receive payments for exported electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), though suppliers set their own tariffs and terms.

However, exporting electricity does not offset the electricity you later purchase from the grid. For example, you might export electricity during a sunny afternoon and then buy electricity from the grid that evening. This highlights the importance of understanding when you generate and use electricity.

Solar system performance issues

If your electricity consumption is unchanged but solar generation has decreased significantly, your system may have a problem. Check your monitoring system, if available, and compare recent generation to previous periods. If you notice irregularities, contact your installer or a qualified solar professional.