My home solar panels made more power than I used for a whole month

I checked my power bill from the utility company this morning, and the net usage number was zero. For the whole month of April, my panels on the roof made 820 kilowatt-hours, and my house only used 790. I had to look at the chart three times because I didn't think I'd hit that mark until summer. It feels good to see the meter actually run backwards for a change. Has anyone else been surprised by how fast their solar system started covering their needs?

3 comments

3 Comments

elliot_johnson312mo ago

Isn't that the best feeling, seeing that meter run backwards? I was just reading an article about how newer panels are way more efficient even on cloudy days than the ones from a few years ago. Makes you wonder if the estimates they give you are low on purpose, just so you're happier when you beat them. I bet your system will be putting even more power back in a couple months.

mila_brown102mo ago

Know exactly what you mean about that meter. I caught mine spinning backwards during a light drizzle last week and just stood there grinning like an idiot. It's such a solid win, especially after dropping all that cash on the setup. The low estimates thing makes total sense, like they're just setting you up for a pleasant surprise. Really makes the whole thing feel worth it.

brian3282mo ago

Totally agree about the meter. It's a little victory every time. The estimates from installers do seem conservative, maybe to avoid complaints. Newer panels are definitely better in low light. My own system outperforms the original projection by a solid margin. Makes the whole investment feel even smarter.