Compare Energy Plans
Knowledge Centre
Is there a ‘best time’ to use your solar power?
Knowing the best times to use solar energy and improving how your solar panels work is key to saving on power bills and reducing your home's environmental impact.
You want to maximise your energy usage, save the planet and your money at the same time, right? Well, knowing the most efficient time to use your solar energy is going to help you there. Solar panels are most efficient when the sun shines directly on them, usually between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm each day.
The first step to energy independence is using less electricity from the grid and more free, clean solar energy.
Factors that affect your solar energy usage
There are going to be a range of factors that affect your solar usage. The optimal times to use solar-generated electricity depend on the following:
- Roof and solar panel orientation
- The ideal tilt angle for your panels
- Your specific electricity plan
Roof and solar panel orientation
In Australia, north-facing solar panels typically generate the most energy due to the sun's path across the sky in the southern hemisphere.
- North-facing panels perform best from 9 am to 2 pm.
- West-facing panels are most efficient from 2 pm to 5 pm.
- East-facing panels peak between 8 am and 11 am.
Ideal tilt angle
The angle at which your solar panels are installed significantly impacts their efficiency. The best tilt angle for optimal power generation is between 20 and 30 degrees. Even at 10 degrees, panels can still maintain good efficiency.
A minimum tilt of 10 degrees is recommended to ensure the panels can self-clean with rainwater and falling leaves.
Electricity plan
A well-thought-out plan for using your solar power throughout the day is vital. This strategy, known as your "electricity load profile," is essential for maximising savings.
Your solar system will be most effective when you use the majority of solar electricity during peak sunlight hours.
Employing energy-efficient appliances can significantly enhance the performance of your solar system by reducing overall energy demand.
Other factors to consider
- Local climate: Weather conditions, such as cloudy or rainy days, can impact the amount of solar energy your panels produce. It's essential to consider seasonal variations and average sunlight hours in your area.
- Shade and obstructions: Trees, buildings, and other obstructions can cast shadows on your solar panels, reducing their efficiency. Regularly trimming trees and ensuring panels are installed in a location free from shading are important steps.
- Panel maintenance: Keeping your solar panels clean and well-maintained ensures they operate at peak efficiency. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the panels, reducing their ability to absorb sunlight.
- Battery storage: Investing in a solar battery storage system can help you store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods, further enhancing your energy independence.
By considering these factors, you can optimise your solar energy usage, reduce reliance on the grid, and maximise both your savings and environmental benefits.
Is there a ‘best time of the year’ to use solar?
Your location plays a crucial role in solar panel efficiency. Being closer to the equator can result in higher electricity generation, influenced by seasonal variations.
Solar panels are most effective during months with longer daylight hours, maximising sun exposure. Check the infographic below for the optimal months in your region.
Average daily sunshine hours in Australia
This table below shows the daily average sunshine hours in Australia:
| Perth | Adelaide | Melbourne | Canberra | Sydney | Brisbane | |
January | 11 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| February | 10 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| March | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| April | 7 | 6 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| May | 6 | 5 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
| June | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| July | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 7 |
| August | 5 | 5 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
| September | 7 | 6 | 5 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| October | 9 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| November | 10 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| December | 11 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
Do solar panels work best in summer?
Solar panels perform best in the summer, not due to the heat but because of extended daylight and optimal sun angles for maximum energy absorption.
For instance, if your solar PV system is shaded for most of the day, it won't produce much power, even on the hottest days.
Ready to find out the best solar plan?
Are you looking to switch your current solar plan to a new provider? Our Aussie-based team can talk you through the best providers, so why not give us a call on 1300 790 106?
