Where Does Solar Go When Batteries Are Full?

So, you’ve taken the sustainable step of installing solar panels and a solar battery. That’s great for your energy independence, savings, and our planet. You're generating clean energy and storing it for when you need it most. But what happens when your battery is full? Where does all endless natural energy go?

Understanding Your Solar System

When your solar panels are producing more electricity than your home needs, the sun doesn't just switch off, so what happens to the continuous supply of energy? There are generally 3 options it can take, so that excess power is put to good use.

1. Solar Batteries: A solar battery is the primary storage solution for excess solar power. It acts like a rechargeable power bank for your home. When your solar panels generate more electricity than your home needs, the surplus is stored in the battery. This is extremely beneficial as your home will always have a constant supply of energy, even on cloudy days.
2. Exporting back to the Grid: If you have an export metre installed, any surplus solar energy flows back into the national grid. This is often referred to as 'exporting' or 'selling back' your electricity. Many energy suppliers offer feed-in tariffs, which means you get paid for the electricity you send out. It's like having a mini power station in your home, and evidence of why investing in solar is a cost effective solution.
3. Diverting Power: Some solar systems have the option to divert excess solar power to specific appliances. For example, you could use it to heat water in a storage tank or run a pool pump. This is a great way to maximise your self-consumption and reduce reliance on the grid.

Even the most advanced batteries have a limited capacity, so once full the excess energy is then exported to the grid, or if you have the option, diverted to specific appliances."

Maximising Your Solar Harvest

To make the most of your solar system, it’s important to understand how to balance your energy use with your solar generation. Consider these tips:

• Time Your Appliances: Try to run energy-hungry appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during the day when your solar panels are generating power. You don’t want to drain your batteries during the night to 0, this is very inefficient. 
• Battery Size: Ensure your battery is sized correctly for your household's needs. A larger battery can store more excess energy. 
• Smart Grid Technologies: Explore smart grid technologies that can optimise your energy usage and potentially increase your export earnings.

By understanding what happens to your excess solar power, you can make informed decisions about your energy consumption and maximise the benefits of your solar system. Those that invest in solar panels, usually follow with a solar battery, this is the most efficient way to invest and store the sun's natural energy to power up your home or business.