How To Read Your Meter

Keeping track of your electricity use is easier than you think!

This guide explains how to read your Electricity meter, whether it's digital, dial, or solar and the different ways your meter records usage as well as submitting a self-read for estimated bills.

Self Reads for estimated bills

If your bill is based on an estimated read you can take a photo and send it to info@solsticeenergy.com.au before the due date of your bill. We’ll then make sure everything checks out, and if it all looks right, we'll send you a new bill based on the reading you gave us.

Digital Meters

You just need to read the number on the display for each "tariff" listed on your electricity bill. The display shows two main numbers: "Element 1" (Tariff 22 or 31 - used for lighting and power) "Element 2" (Tariff 41, 61 or 62 if applicable used for hot water or controlled load, if you have these tariffs) Check your bill to see which tariff matches what element.

Dial Meters

Start with the dial on the far left and read them all, moving right. Write down the numbers as you read them. If a dial hand is between two numbers, write down the lower number. For example, 5 between 5 and 6. If a dial hand is exactly on a number, but the next dial hasn't reached 0 yet, write down the lower number for the first dial. For example, 3 on the first dial if the second dial is between 9 and 0. Ignore any dials without numbers.

Solar Meters

Similar to digital meters, the display shows different registers: Date and time How much electricity you've sent back to the grid (generated by solar) How much electricity you've bought for lighting and power How much electricity you've bought for hot water or off-peak (if applicable) The "Import to grid" shows when you generate more solar power than you use, sending the excess back. The "Export from grid" shows when you need to buy electricity from the grid because your solar isn't enough. Remember, this only shows what comes and goes from the grid, not all the energy your solar panels produce.

Odometer Meters

Just like a car odometer, read the numbers from left to right. These show the total kilowatt hours of electricity used.

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