After going solar, a surprising pattern can happen. You could unconsciously increase your energy use without even realizing it. Why? The perception of getting "free" electricity from the sun can lead to new habits, like leaving lights on, adjusting the thermostat more liberally, or even adding energy-hungry equipment such as pool pumps or EV chargers.
This gradual rise in energy usage is something we call “energy creep,” and it can reduce the predicted savings you expected.
Why Does Energy Creep Happen?
- Small Habit Changes Add Up: Feeling less pressure to conserve, you may use more electricity than before. As the system design was based on your previous energy use, this may cause you to increase what you draw from the grid.
- New Home Upgrades Demand More Power: Adding devices like pool pumps, hot tubs, or electric vehicles will increase your total energy consumption.
How to Maximize Your Solar Savings
- Check in on Your Energy Use
Your solar system was designed based on your historical energy use. If your electric utility bill has gone up, it’s possible that you’re using more energy than what your system was designed for.
H
ave your circumstances changed? Perhaps your kids were off at college and now they’re back home – or you’ve purchased a pool pump or an electric vehicle. Any of these can cause your energy use to increase and may cut into your intended savings.
We recommend you download the MyEverBright app to track your consumption and compare current usage to pre-solar levels. Please note, this information is only available in the app and only if you have a Current Transformer (CT) clamp, which measures the electrical current flowing in real-time through your solar system.1
If nothing’s changed, look at where you might be able to reduce your energy use.
» Turn off lights and electronics when not in use.
» Set thermostats to efficient temperatures, especially when away from home.
- Schedule Big Energy-Consuming Activities Wisely
In most cases, running pool pumps, dishwashers, and laundry during the day when your solar system is producing energy will help maximize self-consumption.
- Get the Whole Household Involved
Make sure everyone understands how their habits impact energy use and savings.
- Think Ahead When Adding New Appliances
If you’re making any major appliance purchases, be sure to select energy efficient products. With or without solar, your electric utility bill may go up if you consume more energy.
The Bottom Line
Solar can add powerful benefits to your home — but staying aware of how your household uses electricity is key to maximizing those benefits. A few small, thoughtful habits can help you stay ahead of energy creep and get the most out of the clean energy your system produces every day.
1Systems installed before April 1, 2024 may not include a CT clamp.
by EverBright
