Defined term

Solar self-consumption

Solar self-consumption is photovoltaic electricity used by loads behind the relevant customer meter instead of being exported to the grid.

Also known as onsite solar consumption

economics · Concept code GS-CONCEPT-068 · Last verified August 20, 2026

Definition and boundaries

Definition

Solar self-consumption is photovoltaic electricity used by loads behind the relevant customer meter instead of being exported to the grid.

Definition claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026

In plain language

Use Solar self-consumption only after the cash-flow perspective, timing, contract structure, included costs, and omitted items are made explicit.

What it is not

It is not total photovoltaic generation, energy independence, or the same percentage as bill savings.

Decision context

Why it matters

Time-resolution, meter boundary, storage charging, load data, curtailment, and tariff treatment determine the measured or modeled amount and its value.

Decision-context claim verification: Verified August 20, 2026

Information boundary

This page provides general educational context, not a site design, production guarantee, utility determination, contract interpretation, legal opinion, tax conclusion, or individualized financial advice. Verify property, equipment, utility, jurisdiction, program, and agreement details before acting.

Concept relationships

Affects

  • Payback periodPublished conceptSolar self-consumption can affect how Payback period is evaluated

Primary sources

What to do next

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