Self-Consumption: What % Do You Use?

What percentage of solar do you actually use?

Self-consumption rate is the most important metric in solar economics — yet no definitive UK study exists. We modelled 6 household types using Ofgem typical domestic consumption values (ofgem.gov.uk), PVGIS hourly generation profiles (re.jrc.ec.europa.eu), and BEIS Energy Follow-Up Survey occupancy data: TYPE 1 — Single person, commutes (out 8am-6pm): Self-consumption WITHOUT battery: 25-30%. With 5kWh battery: 55-65%. TYPE 2 — Couple, both commute: Without: 28-35%. With battery: 60-70%. TYPE 3 — Couple, one WFH: Without: 45-55%. With battery: 75-85%. TYPE 4 — Family with children: Without: 40-50%. With battery: 70-80%. TYPE 5 — Retired couple (home all day): Without: 55-70%. With battery: 80-90%. TYPE 6 — WFH single: Without: 45-55%. With battery: 70-80%. FINANCIAL IMPACT: Every 10% increase in self-consumption = approximately £90-£120/yr extra savings (at 24.5p/kWh avoided vs 5.5p/kWh exported). Self-consumption is the difference between good and excellent solar returns. Sources: Ofgem TDCV, PVGIS hourly data, BEIS Energy Follow-Up Survey, EST.