Navigating energy tariffs for solar and battery storage can be a challenge. We want all our customers to get the most from their systems. This guide is designed to help UK homeowners explore the different tariffs available.
1. Avoid Standard Variable Tariffs
Don’t settle for standard variable tariffs. They typically offer low export rates ranging from 1p to 4p per kWh. You have to track the prices every 30 minutes to get the most from this tariff. We tried and tested it, even using smart plugs to schedule appliances to run at the cheapest times. But we still needed to bath the kids and cook dinner at peak times, so it wasn’t practical for family life.
2. Consider Specialised Tariffs
Explore specialised tariffs tailored for homes with solar and battery storage.
We’re not affiliated with any specific energy provider; our recommendations are based on independent analysis and personal experience of using solar & battery storage in our homes and office. Here are recommendations for different scenarios:
Scenario 1: You have Solar, Battery Storage, and an EV Car Charger
- Our recommendation: Octopus Go Intelligent. This gives you 7.5p /kWh at night for 6 hours, combined with Octopus Outgoing 15p /kWh for excess energy exported.
- Ensure you have an intelligent car or smart charger compatible with the tariff. You’ll need to be able to schedule your charging at the cheaper night-time rate.
Scenario 2: You have Solar and Battery Storage
- If you have a GivEnergy system, consider Octopus Flux Intelligent (beta mode). This offers automated energy optimisation to optimise your charging and balance the grid. It works by you buying the energy at its cheapest and exporting it when you make the best return. You will also need an Octopus Energy export tariff (and a smartphone for the app).
- The standard Octopus Flux offers competitive night rates and high exporting rates. It doesn’t have the automation, so you’re in control.
- They offer super cheap rates between 02:00 – 05:00 every day, meaning you can top up your battery overnight. This is great for winter when you might not get as much excess from solar energy.
- They offer peak export rates between 16:00 – 19:00. This is the best time to discharge your battery and export your excess energy to support the grid.
Scenario 3: Solar Only
Choose tariffs like Octopus Outgoing for favourable export rates if you have a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) system.
- You’ll need a smart meter, so they are able to receive half-hourly export data. This includes almost all SMETS2 meters and most SMETS1.
- If you already have solar, you can still add a battery for excess energy storage. If you have a hot water tank, we can also look at an Eddi Diverter to help with efficient energy usage.
General Tips:
- Research and compare tariffs regularly, focusing on the lowest prices per kWh and overall predicted costs.
- Keep an eye on price changes and tariffs, as they may impact your savings and earnings.
Remember! These suggestions serve as general advice, and conducting independent research is essential to find the best option for your home.
We have no affiliation with Octopus. We just love what they do. They’re working toward a 100% green future, and their customer support is second to none, and they make their tariffs easy to understand. Most importantly, you can switch tariffs easily, at any time, with no penalty. This means you can try and test a few tariffs to find the one that works for you.
Have questions or want more guidance on your unique energy needs? We’re here to help! Contact us today for free, personalised advice tailored to your home’s specific requirements. We’re here to make sure your are getting the best of your solar and battery setup.