--- title: Combining Electricity Usage To Maximise Solar Carport ROI description: Learn to combine electricity usage options to maximise solar carport ROI. Explore strategies on how to enhance energy efficiency and optimise your investment. image: https://solspan.uk/hubfs/Banner%20Image.webp --- [![SolSpan logo](https://solspan.uk/hubfs/SolSpan%20logo.svg)](https://solspan.uk/) - [Our Products](https://solspan.uk/solspan-solar-carports-car-parks-commercial) - [Steel Solar Carports](https://solspan.uk/steel-solar-carports) - [Timber Solar Carports](https://solspan.uk/timber-solar-carports) - [Aluminium Solar Carports](https://solspan.uk/aluminium-solar-carports-solspan) - [Our Services](https://solspan.uk/solar-carport-consultancy) - [Solar Savings Index](https://solspan.uk/solar-savings-index) - [About Us](https://solspan.uk/about-us-solspan) - [Projects](https://solspan.uk/featured-projects) - [Gallery](https://solspan.uk/image-gallery-solspan-solar-carports-car-parks) - Resources - [Blog](https://solspan.uk/blog) - [FAQs](https://solspan.uk/faq) [Contact us](https://cta-eu1.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKd9dx1nE%2FU60iYX8T4msbGgjWSEwHsjKuEJX5gLBzWTJxm6KuU%2Bzh%2BtNr9FiknGlgUFzcQvPTarP3TO5%2B5L9yXX4%2FSESOjClGbsx05SEIiH%2B46OPMySrjLIwQ%2BJcx%2BRDn84CgH79ytfwBQ9Nwj6NKdgHGTrthIMfhrG86tEuFL34Of4REfJ15ZUnKZ2gHLsj8KcMPhS7p3kvMpkBgZN9FNqWagE0b8&portalId=144642568) ![Kensington Systems logo](https://solspan.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Banner%20Image.webp?width=800&height=500&name=Banner%20Image.webp) - [Blog](https://solspan.uk/blog/tag/blog) - [Solar Carports](https://solspan.uk/blog/tag/solar-carports) # Maximising Solar Carport ROI: How to Combine Electricity Usage Options Posted Jun 24, 2024 8:51:07 AM by [Admin](https://solspan.uk/blog/author/admin) [![Share on facebook](https://solspan.uk/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Kensington%20Systems%20Theme/images/icons/facebook-share.svg)](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook) [![Share on twitter](https://solspan.uk/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Kensington%20Systems%20Theme/images/icons/twitter-share.svg)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&url=https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&source=tweetbutton&text=Maximising%20Solar%20Carport%20ROI:%20How%20to%20Combine%20Electricity%20Usage%20Options) [![Share on linkedin](https://solspan.uk/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Kensington%20Systems%20Theme/images/icons/linkedin-share.svg)](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin) [![Share on email](https://solspan.uk/hubfs/raw_assets/public/Kensington%20Systems%20Theme/images/icons/email-share.svg)](mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=email%20&body=Check%20out%20https://solspan.uk/blog/how-to-combine-electricity-usage-options-to-maximise-solar-carport-roi&utm_medium=social&utm_source=email) Discover how to maximize your return on investment by combining different electricity usage options from your [solar carport](https://solspan.uk/solspan-solar-carports-car-parks-commercial) installation. ## Understanding ROI in Electricity Usage When considering the return on investment (ROI) in electricity usage, it is important to understand that the ROI will depend on the chosen option for utilizing the electricity generated by your solar carport installation. On average, payback times vary between 8-15 years. If you choose to [sell the electricity through EV charge points](https://solspan.uk/blog/the-rise-in-electric-cars-how-can-ev-car-parks-benefit-your-staff), the payback time might be less. On the other hand, if you decide to sell the electricity back to the grid, the payback time might be more. It is crucial to consider your specific circumstances and goals to determine the best option for maximising your ROI.  ![Image 24-1](https://144642568.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/144642568/hubfs/Image%2024-1.webp?width=1200&length=1200&name=Image%2024-1.webp) ## Option 1: Use the electricity yourself Choosing to use the electricity generated by your solar carport installation yourself is always a good choice. Not only does it reduce operating costs, but it also contributes to reducing your corporate carbon footprint. By using the electricity yourself, you can save a significant amount of money. Based on [an average grid price per kWh of around £0.26 per kWh](https://www.businesselectricityprices.org.uk/), you can expect to save £26,000\* per 100,000 kWh produced. Additionally, any excess electricity you generate can be either stored in a battery or exported back to the grid. Using the electricity yourself not only provides financial benefits but also allows you to be more self-sufficient and environmentally conscious. \*cost savings will vary depending on fluctuations in electricity prices ![Car Park Solar Canopy](https://144642568.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/144642568/hubfs/Image%2022.webp?width=1200&length=1200&name=Image%2022.webp) ## Option 2: Using the electricity to support EV charging points Depending on the size of your carport installation, it can likely support EV charging points and help power your building as well. This option offers several advantages: - Installing EV charging points is a smart choice as it enables your staff to charge their electric vehicles at work, either for free or for a small charge. This is a major benefit for them and encourages the adoption of electric vehicles. - If you provide company cars, using the electricity to support EV charging points allows you to take advantage of the tax benefits that electric cars offer. - For retail businesses, installing EV charging points can be another revenue opportunity. It may also help increase customer dwell time at your site, as customers can conveniently charge their electric vehicles while visiting your establishment. [Fast and superfast charge points currently sell electricity at prices ranging between £0.55 and £0.85 per kWh.](https://www.zap-map.com/ev-stats/rapid-charging-prices#:~:text=The%20price%20to%20charge%20an,networks%20in%20the%20infographic%20below.) By selling electricity at an average price of £0.79 per kWh (minimum), you can make £79,000 per 100,000 kWh produced. This option not only provides a good return on investment but also supports the growth of electric vehicles and promotes sustainability. ![Small Solar Carport](https://144642568.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/144642568/hubfs/Image%207%20(cropped).webp?width=1200&length=1200&name=Image%207%20(cropped).webp) ## Option 3: Sell the electricity back to the grid If you're producing more electricity than you need and have chosen not to install a battery, you can export the excess energy back to the National Grid via t[he Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)](https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/smart-export-guarantee-seg). This option provides a supplementary income, although it doesn't offer as good a return on investment as the other two options. The rate per kWh for exporting energy back to the grid [is set by energy companies and can vary from £0.01 to £0.20.](https://www.glowgreenltd.com/solar-advice/smart-export-guarantee) However, to get the best SEG rates, you will also need to be signed up to the energy company's tariff. It is important to note that exporting energy back to the grid requires Distribution Network Operator (DNO) approval - this is the company that manages the electricity network in your area - which can take up to 12 weeks. Based on an SEG rate of £0.12 per kWh (assuming you aren't already signed up with the same energy company), you can expect to make £12,000 per 100,000 kWh produced. While this option may not provide the highest ROI, it can still be a valuable source of additional income. ![Car Park - Solar Carports](https://144642568.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/144642568/hubfs/Image%206.webp?width=1200&length=1200&name=Image%206.webp) ## Combining Multiple Options for Maximum ROI Many people choose to combine multiple electricity usage options for their carport installation to maximise their return on investment. By using the electricity themselves, supporting EV charging points, and selling excess electricity back to the grid, they can optimise their ROI and achieve various benefits. Combining these options allows for greater flexibility and adaptability to changing energy needs. It also provides diversified income streams and strengthens the overall sustainability profile of your carport installation. Whether you choose to use the electricity yourself, support EV charging points, sell electricity back to the grid, or a combination of these options, you can expect to receive a return on investment. The best approach depends on your specific circumstances, goals, and priorities. [Contact us](https://solspan.uk/contact-solar-carports-carparks-solspan) for more information. [![Contact Us Today](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/144642568/interactive-103886645718.png)](https://solspan.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKFpqakJDnwVrcLMNXYNGlYrf47mUAFknrq%2FAu3RuQL4rcm8Wg45BxEB1zLIyR5Eo%2BDASqY439Dza299qOcqBog0PPNmVCf4J2cLJT9YsQ5P3U%2F48tKFFllUYNkU3%2B%2B44CfKvNQPGnHZWjSyRtb64esQTTREybOsn88puj2taCWbiH4Ogsepd5g5FDpTb86kJRfb7ie9jLjV%2Bjwwo0%3D&webInteractiveContentId=103886645718&portalId=144642568) [![Could a solar carport be the answer? Find out today.  ](https://hubspot-no-cache-eu1-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/144642568/interactive-103667951082.png)](https://solspan.uk/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLIj%2Bwm1LHKYyOKIz125IWi3Z%2FKAtROtTyas%2BfQEoYeL0aM9sRJECSI9Vv5mOnQhvAKPs%2FOS%2BFw8F1IbA6lu8vgae7OjPZZC5OB%2BOii6dPnJDqmxyBT9f42ZQixzEvbYmgzKAypNpR8biGLgIkVokhN5JaOj476blL3Xk9yVeNjeCZERcoQrx65WupY%2BSCyD7sSmYyUimvKiTr7EQkCK0OFfDkWKQTUABcsUpRxn2LvbQWB%2FDQ%3D%3D&webInteractiveContentId=103667951082&portalId=144642568) ### Related content ### [![Solar Carport Structure Installation](https://solspan.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Mid%20Kent%20College%20Complete%20EDITED%20LS.jpg?width=600&height=400&name=Mid%20Kent%20College%20Complete%20EDITED%20LS.jpg) What is the ROI on a solar carport installation? And how is it calculated? Did you know that UK businesses could save more than £1.4 billion and 570,000 tonnes of... Continue reading](https://solspan.uk/blog/roi-on-solar-carport-installation) ### [![Councils making use of solar caport canopies & covers](https://solspan.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Mid%20Kent%20College%20Solar%20Carport%20(14).jpg?width=600&height=400&name=Mid%20Kent%20College%20Solar%20Carport%20(14).jpg) Plug Into Profit | How Local Councils Can Maximise EV Charging Revenue Cash-strapped councils across the UK are installing thousands of EV charging points in... Continue reading](https://solspan.uk/blog/how-local-councils-can-maximise-ev-charging-revenue) ### [![Solar Carport structure](https://solspan.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/hp-slide-1.jpg?width=600&height=400&name=hp-slide-1.jpg) Solar Module Prices Are Rising — What This Means for Public-Sector Decarbonisation Projects in 2026 After more than a decade of steady declines, global solar module prices are now moving... 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