Optimisation isn't working

Was optimisation turned on recently?

When a user connects their inverter and tariff details for the first time, they will have the ability to switch on optimisation.

The optimisation feature needs 48 hours of usage and PV generation data to make accurate decisions. Once the user has their device linked for this amount of time and connected their tariff, optimisation will start.

Optimisation is off and cannot be turned on

To turn optimisation on, there are a few things that need to be in place. Here’s a quick guide to understand what might be preventing it and how to troubleshoot:

Import or export tariff not linked

For optimisation to function, we need tariff details to ensure the correct financial decisions are made. To fix this, a consumer can go to Account > Tariff details. If either of their tariffs isn't linked, they will see an option to connect them.

Battery is offline

This means Zoa is currently unable to communicate with the battery. This could be because the battery is unable to connect to the local network, or there may be an issue with the manufacturer’s connection. To resolve this, check that the battery is properly connected to the internet and try again.

The battery is unable to be controlled

This can happen due to restrictions set by the manufacturer or because the battery model isn't supported. Unfortunately, there’s nothing to be here.

Conflicting Battery Schedules

If a consumer is on Octopus Intelligent Flux, we may be unable to optimise due to conflicting schedules.

For more information on Optimisation vs Intelligent Flux - please see here type: embedded-entry-inline id: 4b69c5Tsmy2UpeRJnOBiQk

We’re currently unable to retrieve the latest status for the battery

This is usually a temporary issue and may resolve itself shortly.

If the issue persists after trying the troubleshooting steps, please contact us for more details and assistance.

Optimisation is on and cannot be turned off

This may be because the rights to control the battery remain with the landlord or a property management company, and they have opted to have optimisation turned on by default. If you believe this is in error or need more information, please contact us. 

Is the customer on 1-rate tariffs?

Some tariffs aren’t ideal for optimisation. If a customer has a 1-rate import and 1-rate export tariff (i.e. their rates are the same all day, every day), then there’s nothing to be optimised. Our optimisation engine will accept these tariffs, but it will just put the battery into balance mode 24/7. That’s because our optimisation relies on charging the battery from the grid when it’s cheap, and discharging it to the grid when it’s expensive. If the prices are always the same, then there are no cheap or expensive times.