Fast read
Installing solar panels is a smart step toward lowering electricity bills—but savings aren’t automatic. Real solar value comes from how you use the system, not just owning it. To truly maximise savings, you’ll want to shift energy use to daylight hours, monitor your system's performance, optimise your electricity plan, and consider battery storage if it fits your needs. This guide explains how to turn solar power into financial power for Australian households.
How to maximise electricity bill savings with solar power
Two homes with nearly identical solar systems can have very different electricity bills. Why? Because real savings depend on how and when you use energy, your electricity tariff, your system’s design, and even your postcode. For example, a household that runs appliances during the day will typically save more than one that uses most electricity at night. Similarly, systems with advanced inverter tech or battery storage often outperform basic setups. Location also plays a role—solar performance varies slightly by climate, and local feed-in tariffs (FiTs) differ between states and retailers.
When should I use my appliances to save the most?
The golden rule for solar savings is: Use your power when the sun is shining. Solar systems generate electricity during daylight hours, usually peaking between 10am and 3pm. Using your appliances during this window maximises self-consumption—the portion of solar energy you use directly rather than exporting to the grid. Here’s how to align your habits with solar production:
- Run appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and pool pumps during the day.
- Use timers, delay-start features, or smart home tech to automate usage.
- Reserve stored battery energy (if available) for evening use.
Think of your solar system as your personal daytime power plant—it’s producing clean, free energy while the sun’s out, so tap into it as much as possible.
What’s the deal with feed-in tariffs—and why shouldn’t I rely on them?
Feed-in tariffs (FiTs) are payments you receive for exporting unused solar energy to the grid. While once generous, they’ve dropped across Australia in recent years. In 2025, most FiTs range from 5 to 8 cents per kilowatt-hour—far lower than the 30 to 45 cents many households pay to import grid electricity.
That’s why self-consumption is the smarter savings strategy. Instead of “selling low and buying high,” aim to use your solar energy on-site, where it's worth three to six times more than what a FiT pays. If you’re still exporting large amounts of energy, it may be time to revisit your usage patterns—or explore battery storage.
How can I tell if my solar system is working properly?
Even top-quality systems lose value if they aren’t performing well. Common issues like dirty panels, partial shading, or inverter faults can silently erode your savings. Stay on top of your system’s health by:
- Using your solar monitoring app (e.g. SolarEdge, Enphase, Fronius Solar.web) to track daily output.
- Comparing actual vs expected generation, especially after cloudy days pass.
- Watching for shading or debris—even a single leaf or bird dropping can reduce panel efficiency.
- Scheduling a regular check-up with a CEC-accredited installer.
Tip: If your feed-in numbers have dropped or your electricity bills remain stubbornly high, a system inspection is a good next move.
Will a home battery help me save more?
Batteries allow you to store excess solar power for use after sunset—meaning less reliance on costly grid electricity. This can significantly reduce night-time usage charges, especially for households with high evening demand. However, batteries still come at a premium. A typical 10–13 kWh lithium-ion battery (e.g. Tesla Powerwall, Sungrow SBR, BYD) can cost $9,000 to $15,000 installed. Batteries often make financial sense when:
- Your solar export is high and you use a lot of energy after dark.
- Electricity prices are steep and FiTs are low.
- You qualify for state incentives (e.g. Victoria’s Solar Battery Rebate or South Australia’s Home Battery Scheme).
- You value blackout protection and energy independence.
Before investing, have a professional run a cost-benefit analysis based on your actual usage patterns.
Can switching electricity plans increase my solar savings?
Yes—your electricity retailer can make or break your solar savings. Look for solar-friendly plans that offer:
- Higher feed-in tariffs (some niche retailers offer above-average rates)
- Time-of-use pricing that rewards shifting loads to daytime
- Low daily supply charges, especially if you’re exporting a lot of power
Comparison tools like Energy Made Easy or Victorian Energy Compare are great places to start. Check every 12 months—plans change frequently, and your system performance or habits might evolve too.
Should I expand my system or change my habits first?
Many homeowners jump to upgrading their system when bills remain high—but often, a few simple habit changes can unlock better results.
Before considering expansion:
- Are you making the most of daytime solar production?
- Could you shift more usage (e.g. hot water, cooking, charging EVs) to solar hours?
- Is your system clean, shaded-free, and monitored?
If your usage is already optimised, then expanding your system or adding a battery might be worthwhile. Be sure to check your DNSP’s export limits and get updated quotes from CEC- accredited retailers.
Still getting high bills? Here’s what to check.
If your solar system isn’t slashing your bills like it should, troubleshoot with these steps:
- Old appliances like fridges or pool pumps can be huge energy drains.
- Inefficient electric hot water systems often run overnight—try setting timers or switching to solar-compatible heat pumps.
- Unexpected night-time consumption can cancel out your daytime gains. A professional energy audit or solar health check can pinpoint inefficiencies and suggest targeted fixes. You might just need to adjust a setting, install a diverter, or replace one appliance to see major savings.
The bottom line: self-consume smart, monitor often and optimise your plan
Maximising solar savings isn’t about having the biggest system—it’s about being smart with the energy you produce. Shift usage to solar hours, monitor performance, pick the right electricity plan, and consider battery storage if it fits your needs. And if you’re still unsure whether your system is delivering, Your Energy Answers can connect you with trusted local experts for tailored advice, health checks, and upgrades. With a few simple changes, bigger solar savings could be just around the corner.
