Common Mistakes That Increase Your Electric Bill in 2025

5 Mistakes That Increase Your Electric Bill

Is your electricity bill higher than expected every month? At RenovaEnergy, we’ve identified five common energy consumption mistakes that often go unnoticed but directly impact your bottom line. The good news: they’re easy to fix.

1. Using appliances during peak hours

If you’re on a time-of-use rate like 2.0TD, running your washer, oven, or electric water heater during peak hours (10:00–14:00 and 18:00–22:00) can raise your bill by up to 30%. Shift usage to off-peak hours (night or early morning) to cut costs.

2. Leaving devices on standby

TVs, computers, routers, coffee makers… they all use energy even when “off”. Phantom load can account for 7% or more of your annual bill. Use power strips with switches to fully disconnect them when not in use.

3. Paying for more power capacity than you need

Many homes pay for contracted power they never actually use. At RenovaEnergy, we review your usage patterns to adjust your contracted power and cut fixed monthly costs without sacrificing comfort.

4. Not reviewing your tariff or contract regularly

When was the last time you checked your electricity plan? Rates change—often without warning. You could be overpaying or paying for services you don’t need. Compare options and adjust your tariff if necessary—no need to change providers.

5. Not optimizing your solar installation (if you have one)

If you already have solar panels but aren’t managing your usage well or don’t have a battery, you’re missing out on real savings. A few adjustments in your habits or the right tariff can make a big difference.

Bonus: What if you don’t have solar yet?

A well-designed solar system helps you avoid all these issues at the source: lower your grid usage, reduce fixed charges, and produce your own energy when it matters most.

How RenovaEnergy can help you fix these mistakes

We offer personalized energy audits to identify where you can improve—without changing providers or committing to a system right away. Just real savings with real data.

Want to lower your electric bill? Contact us for a free analysis of your energy use and tariff. No pressure—just expert advice.

Are Solar Panels the Best Option to Power Your Air Conditioning?

Solar Panels and Air Conditioning: The Perfect Summer Combo?

When the heat hits, air conditioning becomes essential—but so does electricity consumption. At RenovaEnergy, we explain why using your solar panels to power your AC might be one of the smartest energy decisions you can make this summer.

Are solar panels and air conditioning compatible?

Absolutely. In fact, they’re one of the most efficient self-consumption pairings: you generate the most energy when you need it the most. Peak solar radiation hours match the hottest parts of the day—exactly when your AC works hardest.

Benefits of powering your AC with solar energy

  • Direct savings: Avoid using grid electricity during peak-price hours.
  • Smart self-consumption: Use energy as it’s being produced.
  • Comfort without fear: Keep your home cool without worrying about the cost.
  • Lower carbon footprint: Enjoy clean comfort with no emissions.

How many panels do I need to run air conditioning?

It depends on the number of AC units, their power rating, and how long they run. As a general reference, a 2,000W unit used for 5 hours consumes about 10 kWh per day. A properly sized solar system can easily cover this.

What if I’m not home during sunlight hours?

No problem. You can:

  • Install batteries to store energy and use it later.
  • Program your AC to pre-cool the home during peak solar hours.
  • Send excess energy to the grid for credit or use in other appliances.

RenovaEnergy designs systems with your comfort in mind

It’s not just about installing solar panels—it’s about adapting them to your real lifestyle. If you use AC regularly, we design your system to meet that demand and maximize comfort and savings.

Want to know if your current system can power your AC? Or are you considering going solar this summer? Get in touch—we’ll study your case and help you find the best solution.

What Solar Battery Do I Need Based on My Energy Use?

What Solar Battery Do I Need Based on My Energy Use?

At RenovaEnergy, we know every home is unique. That’s why choosing the right solar battery is key to getting the most out of your photovoltaic system. In this article, we explain how to determine what type and capacity battery you need based on your real energy profile.

Why install a solar battery?

A solar battery allows you to store the energy your panels generate but you don’t use right away. You can then use that stored energy at night or during low-sunlight hours. The result? More grid independence and greater savings.

How to choose the right capacity

Not every household needs the same battery size. Here’s what to consider:

  • Daily electricity use: How many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you consume per day.
  • Usage patterns: Do you consume more energy at night or during the day?
  • Solar production: How much energy your panels generate throughout the day.

Example scenario

If you consume 8 kWh per day and directly use 5 kWh, a battery that stores 3–4 kWh would let you use that surplus energy at night. In this case, a 4–6 kWh battery might be ideal.

Types of solar batteries for homes

  • Lithium-ion: High efficiency, long lifespan, minimal maintenance. The most recommended option today.
  • Lead-acid: Lower upfront cost, but less durable and higher maintenance needs.

What happens if you don’t have a battery?

Without a battery, you can only use solar energy as it’s produced. This means lower actual self-consumption and more reliance on the grid, especially at night.

Do you always need a battery?

Not necessarily. But if your main energy use happens in the evening or if you want maximum independence, a battery makes a big difference. It helps you cover a higher percentage of your electricity needs with clean, self-generated power.

How does RenovaEnergy help you choose?

We carry out a free personalized study to analyze your consumption, habits, and current or planned installation. This allows us to recommend the ideal battery for your home—no overinvestment, no underperformance.

Want to know which battery is right for your energy use? Contact us and we’ll guide you with real data—no obligation.

How Much Solar Energy Can You Generate Depending on Where You Live?

How Much Solar Energy Can You Generate?

Living in Seville isn’t the same as living in Oviedo. And a south-facing roof doesn’t behave like one facing north. At RenovaEnergy, we know from experience: solar production depends on your location. That’s why every installation must be adapted to where you live. Here’s what to expect based on your region.

Spain: a country with huge solar potential

The good news is that nearly the entire country enjoys high solar radiation levels. Even the northern regions receive more sunlight than many parts of Central Europe where solar power is booming.

Average annual production by region

  • Andalusia, Murcia, Extremadura: 1,600 to 1,800 kWh per kW installed
  • Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, Valencia: 1,400 to 1,600 kWh/kW
  • Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, Basque Country: 1,100 to 1,300 kWh/kW
  • Canary Islands: very high year-round output—ideal for self-consumption

Other important factors

  • Roof orientation: South is ideal, but East and West also work well
  • Tilt angle: 30º to 35º is optimal, but can be adjusted
  • Shade: Trees, buildings, or obstructions reduce performance

Can I find out how much energy I’ll generate?

Yes. RenovaEnergy provides a free technical assessment where we estimate your annual energy production based on your roof, region, and energy use. So you know exactly how much you can save.

Is it worth it even in the north?

Absolutely. Even with slightly lower production, you’ll still see real savings. Combine solar with batteries or the right tariff and you’ll have a very attractive return on investment.

Want to know how much energy you can generate at home? Request a free study and we’ll show you the numbers.

What Would Life Be Like Without Worrying About Your Power Bill?

What Would Life Be Like Without Worrying About Your Power Bill?

Just imagine it. A cooler summer, a warmer winter—without fearing the heating or AC bill. No more surprises in your electricity invoice. Thanks to self-consumption, thousands of Spanish households are living this reality.

From paying every month… to generating your own power

When you produce your electricity with solar panels, you’re no longer fully dependent on utility companies. That means you take control of your energy and your spending.

How much can you really save?

A well-designed solar system can reduce your annual electricity bill by 50% to 80%. And if you add a battery or the right tariff, your savings grow even more.

What if prices go up?

It doesn’t matter. You’re generating your own energy. Self-consumption protects you from market volatility and brings long-term stability to your household budget.

Less stress, more freedom

  • Want to charge your EV overnight? You can.
  • Use your appliances without checking the clock? Absolutely.
  • Keep your home warm all winter? Without dreading the next bill.

Is solar installation complicated?

Not at all. At RenovaEnergy, we make it easy: free assessment, fast installation, permits, legal paperwork, and support. You just decide when to start saving.

Peace of mind, installed with your panels

Lowering your electricity bill isn’t just about numbers. It’s about living with less stress and more autonomy. And in today’s world, that’s priceless.

Curious how much you could save? Reach out and we’ll tell you—no obligation.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Solar Installation?

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Solar Installation?

One of the most common questions we get at RenovaEnergy is: Why does the price of a solar installation vary so much? The truth is, there’s no single price tag—every system is custom-designed. In this guide, we explain the main cost drivers and how to know if you’re getting a fair deal.

Key Factors That Influence the Final Cost

  • Annual electricity usage: The more energy you use, the more panels you’ll need.
  • Roof size and orientation: These affect how many panels fit and how efficiently they generate energy.
  • Panel type: High-efficiency or premium panels are more expensive than standard ones.
  • Inverter quality: Its size and technology play a big role in system performance and cost.
  • Battery storage: Adding a battery can significantly increase the total investment.
  • Installation difficulty: A simple flat roof is cheaper than a steep or complex one.

How Much Does Solar Cost in 2025?

Prices have dropped in recent years, but depend heavily on system size and extras:

  • Small system (3 kW): €4,000 – €5,500
  • Medium system (5 kW): €6,000 – €8,000
  • System with battery: €10,000 – €14,000

What Should a Complete Quote Include?

At RenovaEnergy, our quotes are always turnkey and transparent. They include:

  • Solar panels, inverter, and mounting structure
  • Custom technical design
  • Installation and system certification
  • Paperwork for government grants and grid connection
  • Monitoring system

How to Know If You’re Getting a Good Deal

The cheapest offer isn’t always the best. What matters is quality, guarantees, and long-term return. RenovaEnergy helps you understand what you’re paying for and why.

Wondering how much your system should cost? Request a free quote from us and we’ll guide you without obligation.

How to Charge an Electric Car with Solar Panels

How to Charge an Electric Car with Solar Panels

Pairing an electric vehicle with solar energy is one of the smartest moves you can make in 2025. At RenovaEnergy, we explain how to charge your EV at home using solar panels—saving money and reducing your environmental impact with clean energy from your own rooftop.

Can you charge an EV using only solar panels?

Yes, absolutely. The key is knowing how much energy you generate, when you produce it, and how to schedule your charging. It’s all about designing a system that matches your usage and adapting your routine.

What do you need to charge an EV with solar?

  • A solar panel installation sized to your household and vehicle consumption
  • A charging station (wallbox) compatible with your home and EV
  • (Optional) A solar battery to store power for night charging

How many panels are needed to charge an EV?

It depends on the car model and how much you drive. As a general reference:

  • 10,000 km per year requires around 1,500–2,000 kWh
  • This translates to about 6 to 8 solar panels dedicated to EV charging

How much can you save?

If you charge with solar energy, your cost per kilometer is virtually zero. Compared to a gas car, you can save over €1,000 per year on fuel alone—plus lower maintenance costs.

What if I don’t have a solar battery?

That’s fine. You can schedule your charging during daylight hours. With a good excess energy compensation rate, you’ll still save significantly.

RenovaEnergy helps you integrate solar and EV charging

We design solar installations with electric mobility in mind. We help you size your system, install your charger, and configure everything to maximize solar production and self-consumption.

Thinking of going electric or already have an EV? Let RenovaEnergy help you power it with the sun.

Best Solar Self-Consumption Tariff in 2025: How to Choose

The Best Solar Self-Consumption Tariff in 2025

If you already have solar panels or are planning to install them, there’s one essential question: Which electricity tariff gives you the most savings? At RenovaEnergy, we guide you through finding the best plan to make your solar installation even more profitable.

What should a good solar tariff include?

Not all energy plans are designed for solar users. A good self-consumption tariff should:

  • Offer a fair rate for excess energy you feed into the grid
  • Include a competitive kWh price for non-solar hours (nighttime, winter)
  • No hidden costs, fees, or forced service bundles

How does surplus compensation work?

With simplified compensation, the value of unused solar energy is deducted from your electricity bill. But rates vary by provider, and some set limits on monthly credits.

Should I choose a fixed, variable, or time-of-use tariff?

  • Fixed-rate: Stable and predictable, good for consistent consumption patterns
  • Variable/indexed rate: Follows the real market price, which can offer savings—but less predictability
  • Time-of-use (TOU): Great if you can shift your usage to off-peak hours

If you have a solar battery, TOU tariffs can help you charge when energy is cheapest and use it when rates are high.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Choosing a plan just because of a low kWh price without checking compensation
  • Paying for added services you don’t need
  • Not reviewing your tariff annually—many increase after the first year

Still don’t have solar panels?

We’ve got you covered. At RenovaEnergy, we design your solar system and recommend the best tariff to match it, so you save from day one.

Need help choosing the best solar plan?

RenovaEnergy analyzes your consumption, solar production, and the current energy market to propose the best self-consumption tariff for your home in 2025.

Want a free customized comparison? Contact us with no obligation.

How to Calculate the Profitability of a Solar Installation

How to Calculate the Profitability of a Solar Installation in 2025

One of the first questions people ask when considering solar is: Is it really worth it? At RenovaEnergy, we help you calculate the profitability of your solar system so you can make an informed decision, backed by real data based on your energy habits.

What factors affect profitability?

Solar profitability varies depending on key variables such as:

  • Annual electricity consumption
  • Electricity price and the tariff you’re on
  • Estimated solar output based on your location, roof size, and system orientation
  • Total cost of the installation (with or without a battery)
  • Excess energy compensation and available incentives

Basic formula to estimate profitability

A simple formula to begin with is:

Annual ROI (%) = (Annual savings / Total investment) x 100

For example, if you invest €6,000 and save €700 a year:

  • Profitability: 700 / 6,000 = 11.6%
  • Payback period: around 8.5 years

What’s considered a good return?

Anything above 10% annual ROI is excellent. Plus, solar energy is a stable, predictable long-term investment.

How to increase profitability

  • Shift your energy use to daylight hours
  • Choose a tariff with fair compensation for excess energy
  • Avoid oversizing the system unnecessarily
  • Take advantage of subsidies and tax incentives

RenovaEnergy helps you calculate your real numbers

You don’t need to do complex math. RenovaEnergy calculates your system’s real profitability based on your consumption habits, location, and energy goals. You’ll know exactly how much you’ll save and how long it takes to recover your investment.

Want to know if solar is a smart choice for you in 2025? We’ll help you with no strings attached.

How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Produce on Cloudy Days?

How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Produce on Cloudy Days?

One of the most frequent questions we hear from future solar users is: Do solar panels work when the sky is cloudy? At RenovaEnergy, we explain how cloud cover affects solar performance and why solar power is still efficient even without direct sunlight.

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Yes. While their output is lower, solar panels continue generating electricity thanks to diffused sunlight—light that passes through the clouds.

How much does production decrease?

The loss of performance depends on how dense the clouds are. In general:

  • Lightly cloudy: 60% to 80% of normal production
  • Moderately overcast: 30% to 50% of normal output
  • Very cloudy or rainy: 10% to 25%, but rarely zero

Do all panels perform the same in cloudy weather?

No. Some panels, such as monocrystalline models, are more efficient in low-light conditions. The inverter and monitoring systems also play a key role in maximizing performance.

How does this affect savings?

If you live in an area with frequent cloudy days, your annual production might drop slightly. But in most parts of Spain, the impact is minimal and annual output remains high enough to ensure profitability.

What if I have a solar battery?

Batteries help stabilize your energy use. You can store excess electricity from sunny days and use it when production drops due to weather.

Bottom line? Clouds aren’t a problem

Solar panels don’t need direct sun to work. While performance may decrease on cloudy days, they still generate valuable electricity. A properly designed system will account for this and ensure reliable output year-round.

Curious if your location is a good fit for solar? RenovaEnergy will assess your site, consumption habits, and sun exposure to give you a clear answer.