The MyEnergi MyEddi Solar Diverter is a game-changing device for households with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, offering a smart way to manage and utilize surplus solar energy. This 3-phase, WiFi-enabled device optimizes energy efficiency by redirecting unused solar power to heat water or other home appliances. Following is a brief explanation of how the MyEddi works, its features, and how it helps an average UK family save money on energy bills while maximizing the benefits of their solar energy system.
How the MyEddi Solar Diverter Works
The MyEddi Solar Diverter acts as a bridge between your solar PV system and energy-consuming devices in your home. Solar panels often generate more electricity than a household consumes at a given time, particularly during sunny periods. Without a diverter, this excess energy is typically exported to the grid, earning the homeowner a modest payment through schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). However, exporting energy is far less economical than using it yourself.
The MyEddi intercepts this surplus energy and redirects it to power immersion heaters, underfloor heating, towel rails, or storage heaters, ensuring that no renewable energy goes to waste. The result is a significant reduction in reliance on grid electricity for heating water or powering appliances, leading to lower energy bills and increased self-consumption of solar energy.
Key Features of the MyEddi Solar Diverter
- 3-Phase Compatibility: Ideal for properties with 3-phase electricity, such as larger homes or small commercial setups.
- WiFi Enabled: Real-time monitoring and control through the MyEnergi app, allowing users to track energy use and savings remotely.
- Smart Load Management: Automatically prioritizes energy usage, diverting power to the most suitable devices.
- Customizable Settings: Users can adjust the settings to align with their energy needs and heating schedules.
- Future-Proof: Compatible with other MyEnergi devices like the Zappi EV charger, creating a cohesive smart energy ecosystem.
Energy Savings with the MyEddi
For an average UK household, heating water accounts for about 20% of total energy consumption. By using surplus solar power to heat water instead of relying on electricity from the grid, homeowners can make substantial savings.
Scenario: Energy Usage in an Average UK Household
- Daily Solar Generation: Let’s assume a 4kW solar PV system generates an average of 12–16kWh per day during summer months.
- Household Energy Consumption: The household consumes 8kWh daily, leaving 4–8kWh of surplus energy.
- Water Heating Requirement: Heating a tank of water typically requires about 3–4kWh of energy.
With the MyEddi installed, the surplus solar energy is directed to heat the water. Over a year, this could result in:
- Annual Savings: Approximately £200–£300, depending on energy tariffs and water heating needs.
- Increased Self-Consumption: Raising solar energy utilization from an average of 30% to nearly 80%.
For larger households or properties with higher energy demands, the savings can be even greater.
Environmental Benefits of the MyEddi
The MyEddi Solar Diverter not only saves money but also reduces a household’s carbon footprint by maximizing the use of renewable solar energy. Every kilowatt-hour of solar energy consumed locally instead of being exported to the grid reduces dependence on fossil fuels. Over the course of a year, this can translate to several hundred kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions avoided.
How the MyEddi Fits into a Smart Energy Ecosystem
One of the standout features of the MyEddi is its seamless integration with other MyEnergi products, creating a smart energy ecosystem.
Integration with the Zappi EV Charger
The MyEddi can work alongside the Zappi EV charger, another innovative product by MyEnergi. While the MyEddi manages surplus energy for heating, the Zappi diverts excess solar power to charge electric vehicles. Together, these devices ensure optimal utilization of solar energy across different applications.
Monitoring and Control via the MyEnergi App
The WiFi-enabled MyEddi connects to the MyEnergi app, giving homeowners real-time insights into their energy usage and savings. The app provides data on:
- Solar generation.
- Grid import/export.
- Energy diverted to heating.
This visibility empowers users to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.
Installation and Compatibility
The MyEddi is designed for straightforward installation by a qualified electrician. It’s compatible with most solar PV systems and integrates effortlessly into existing setups.
Key Installation Features:
- 3-Phase Operation: Perfect for properties with 3-phase electricity, which is common in commercial setups or larger homes.
- Scalability: Suitable for homes of all sizes, with the ability to manage multiple loads.
Comparing the MyEddi to Traditional Water Heating
Traditional water heating methods rely on electricity or gas, both of which are costly and have a higher environmental impact. The MyEddi offers a cleaner, more cost-effective alternative by utilizing surplus solar energy.
Cost Comparison:
- Electricity: Heating water with grid electricity costs around 34p per kWh (UK average).
- Gas: While cheaper than electricity, gas heating still has associated costs and emissions.
- Solar Energy: Free once the solar system is installed, making the MyEddi a long-term cost-saving solution.
Reviews
Homeowners who have installed the MyEddi solar diverter have highlighted it's:
- Ease of Use: The intuitive interface and app make it simple to manage energy usage.
- Savings: Many users report noticeable reductions in their energy bills within the first year.
- Integration: Positive feedback on how well the MyEddi works with other MyEnergi devices like the Zappi charger.
Financial Considerations
Upfront Cost
While your upfront cost does not include the installation fee, he savings generated over time quickly offset the initial expense.
Return on Investment (ROI)
For an average UK household, the MyEddi pays for itself within 2–3 years through energy savings. For larger households or properties with high energy demands, the ROI period is even shorter.
Incentives and Grants
UK homeowners may be eligible for government schemes or incentives that support renewable energy installations, further reducing the overall cost of integrating a MyEddi into their solar setup.
The MyEddi’s Role in Energy Independence
The MyEddi Solar Diverter helps homeowners become more self-sufficient by maximizing the use of their solar energy. This reduces reliance on grid electricity, which is subject to price fluctuations and environmental concerns.
For households aiming for near-complete energy independence, the MyEddi is an essential component. When combined with battery storage, the MyEddi ensures that every kilowatt-hour of solar energy is either stored or used, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
Conclusion
The MyEnergi MyEddi Solar Diverter is a great device for UK homeowners with solar PV systems. Its ability to redirect surplus solar energy to power water heating and other appliances results in significant cost savings and improved energy efficiency. With its 3-phase compatibility, WiFi-enabled monitoring, and seamless integration into a smart energy ecosystem, the MyEddi offers a future-proof solution for sustainable energy management.
For an average UK family, a solar diverter is more than a device, its an investment in a cleaner, more economical energy future. By reducing energy bills, maximizing solar energy usage, and lowering carbon footprints, the MyEddi Solar Diverter stands out.