What happens to unused solar energy?

Solar energy is generated throughout the day when the sun is shining on your roof. This means most generation usually happens between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

If you’re not able to use all of the solar energy that's being generated, one of two things will happen to it.

1. It'll be sent back to the grid 

If you’re not using all of the energy that you’re generating, it’ll automatically be sent back to the electricity grid (the same grid you usually receive electricity from). Your electricity retailer will often give you a credit for this energy, as it means they won't need to buy as much energy to power other homes. 

This also means that aside from the benefit your solar system brings your home, it also brings the wider community by making more green energy available for others.

2. You can store it in a battery to use later

If you'd like to be able to store the energy you generate so you’re able to use it at night, a home battery system might be a good option for you. 

Batteries will charge from the solar energy being generated throughout the day, and then discharge into your home as you need it at a later time. While batteries have a higher price point than solar – they can allow you to minimise the amount of electricity you’re buying from the grid (amongst other cool things) – which is generally a better financial outcome.