This might sound unusual, but we're installing solar panels with deliberate overcapacity at our new home. Despite the limited financial benefits of net metering, we've opted for more panels than our current needs require. Here's our reasoning, drawn from real-world experience.
In November, we had Zonneplan install panels on our previous home's roof. Their expert advice and flawless execution left us fully satisfied—a rare endorsement from someone who blogs candidly about both good and bad supplier experiences.
Relocating shortly after wasn't planned, yet here we are, investing anew. We've chosen 36 panels on the new shed's roof, generating around 10,000 kWh annually.
Table of Contents
Generating green energy for self-consumption drives our decision—benefiting the environment while fostering energy independence. After comparing quotes locally and beyond, we partnered again with Zonneplan for their trusted advisory role and proven track record.
These 36 panels will produce about 10,000 kWh yearly, exceeding our needs. It's a thoughtful investment, not an impulse.
Average electricity costs around €0.23 per kWh (including fixed fees), while feed-in tariffs yield just €0.06–0.09 per kWh. Net metering, phasing out post-2023, offers minimal returns on surplus. Our focus? Anticipating rising consumption.
We currently use 5,500 kWh annually—higher than average, thanks to our jacuzzi. Expect more in the new home as we pursue sustainability.
A hybrid boiler, blending gas and electricity for efficient hot water, aligns perfectly with our surplus solar power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Our rural location demands extensive exterior lighting and security cameras to monitor the garden and pasture— all powered electrically.
While I love my Audi TT, an EV appeals. Reports show 20 panels suffice for 20,000 km yearly; my 3,000 miles needs just three for 'free' charging—sustainable mobility made simple.
Future bathroom renovations will feature electric underfloor heating over radiators, leveraging our excess generation.
Our current Quooker is a favorite; the new home gets the power-hungry Flex Combi+ for instant boiling and hot water, justified by overcapacity.
Ditching portable units for a permanent system cooling all bedrooms requires reliable surplus power.
A backyard electric sauna is on our wishlist, channeling excess solar energy into luxury.
Zonneplan advised forecasting future needs over current ones. Adding panels later costs more due to reinstallation and potential inverter upgrades.
Post-net metering, home batteries and smart storage will maximize self-use. Zonneplan's forward-thinking guidance ensures we're prepared. We're eager to track production via their app once installed.
Here's our current system's performance!
