Postcode Export Estimator

Self-consumption refers to the percentage of solar energy you use directly in your home rather than exporting to the grid. A higher self-consumption rate generally leads to greater savings because you're avoiding purchasing electricity from the grid, which is typically more expensive than the feed-in tariff rate you receive for exports.

You can increase your self-consumption by using energy-intensive appliances during daylight hours when your solar system is generating power. This includes running washing machines, dishwashers, pool pumps, and air conditioners during the day. Some households also install smart timers or home energy management systems to optimize energy usage patterns.

Generation factors vary between states due to differences in sunlight hours, weather patterns, and solar irradiance levels. States closer to the equator and with more sunny days generally have higher generation factors. Local climate conditions, such as cloud cover and temperature, also affect solar panel efficiency and energy production.

This estimator provides a rough approximation based on average generation factors for each state. Actual output can vary significantly based on factors such as panel orientation, shading, roof pitch, panel efficiency, local weather conditions, and system maintenance. For a more accurate assessment, consult with a solar installer or use monitoring data from your existing system.