Your solar panels generate free electricity from daylight, helping to reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. To get the biggest benefit, it’s important to use electricity when your panels are producing the most power.
Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, even on cloudy days. Typically, the most electricity is produced between 10:00am and 4:00pm.
Every unit of electricity you use from your solar panels is electricity you don’t need to buy from the grid. Use energy when the sun is shining and enjoy the savings!
Top tips to maximise savings
Use Appliances During the Day
Try to run high-energy appliances when the sun is shining:
- Washing machine
- Tumble dryer
- Dishwasher
- Iron
- Vacuum cleaner
Instead of running appliances in the evening, use timers or delay-start functions where available.
Spread appliance use throughout the day
Avoid switching several appliances on at the same time.
For example:
- 10:00am – Washing machine
- 12:00pm – Dishwasher
- 2:00pm – Tumble dryer
This helps maximise the use of free solar electricity.
Charge devices during the day
Take advantage of free solar power by charging:
- Mobile phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Rechargeable batteries
- Mobility scooters (where appropriate)
Things to remember
Solar panels do not eliminate electricity bills
You will still buy electricity from your energy supplier:
- At night
- During periods of high household demand
- During winter when solar generation is lower
However, using more electricity during daylight hours can significantly reduce the amount you need to buy from the grid.
Solar panels still work on cloudy days
On cloudy days, solar generation will be lower than on bright sunny days, but your system will continue producing electricity whenever there is daylight.
Looking after your solar panels
Your solar panels require very little maintenance.
- Do not attempt to clean or repair panels yourself.
- Report any visible damage to Cobalt.
Need Help?
If you think there is a problem with your solar panel system or would like further advice, please contact us.
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