Essential Knowledge and How to Choose Solar Batteries for Long-term Value
Key takeaway / Summary of topic answer A solar battery is the heart of any system that requires energy storage for later use, especially in
Net Metering is a billing mechanism that offsets the actual electricity consumed by a user with the electricity generated by their solar PV system. Under this system, consumers are billed only for the "net" energy used—the difference between the electricity provided by the utility and the electricity generated by the solar panels.
Calculation Example: Suppose a household typically consumes 5,000 units per month at a rate of 3.99 THB per unit (based on the electricity tariff as of September 29, 2023). Without solar, the total cost would be 19,950 THB. If a solar PV system is installed and generates 2,000 units per month, these units are directly deducted from the total consumption: 5,000 – 2,000 = 3,000 units. Consequently, the user pays only for the remaining 3,000 units, totaling 11,970 THB.
The Current Situation in Thailand: Bill Metering
Currently, Thailand utilizes a “Bill Metering” system, which separates the cost of electricity purchased from the grid from the revenue earned by selling excess electricity back to the utility.
For example: If you consume 5,000 units and your solar system produces 2,000 units, you might use 1,500 units directly in your home and export the remaining 500 units back to the grid. At a buy-back rate of 2.20 THB per unit, you would earn 1,100 THB. However, during the night when the solar system is inactive, if you draw 3,500 units from the grid, your bill would be 13,965 THB. After deducting the 1,100 THB earned from solar exports, the final payment is 12,865 THB.
This calculation demonstrates that Bill Metering results in a higher net payment compared to Net Metering. Consequently, various sectors are advocating for Thailand to adopt Net Metering, similar to the systems used in the United States, Denmark, and many other countries.
Summary of the Advantages of Net Metering
- Cost Reduction and Revenue Generation: It lowers the financial burden of electricity costs for the public and allows individuals to generate income from surplus energy. This system empowers citizens by granting them the right to “own” the energy production for their own households.
- Transition from Fossil Fuels to Clean Energy: Grid electricity is predominantly generated from fossil fuels. Implementing Net Metering through solar installations significantly reduces carbon emissions and contributes to global environmental preservation.
- Decentralization of Energy Supply: It shifts the energy landscape from “Centralized Energy” to “Decentralized Energy.” Instead of being sole consumers, citizens become producers, fostering energy security and long-term sustainability.
Is the TOU Tariff Right for You? Check Before Switching to Reduce Business Costs
Key takeaway / Summary of topic answer The TOU (Time-of-Use) tariff is an electricity billing method based on actual usage periods, divided into On-Peak (daytime
Solar Materials and Systems: A Essential Guide Before Installation
การเลือกรูปแบบโซล่าเซลล์ที่ตอบโจทย์คือการจับคู่เทคโนโลยีให้สอดคล้องกับบริบทการใช้งานและเป้าหมายการลงทุน โดยปัจจุบันแผง Monocrystalline
