# Half-hourly data explained (and why we ask for it)

Half-hourly (HH) data is a record of how much electricity your site uses in each 30-minute period. It shows exactly when you use power across the day, which lets us size a solar and battery system accurately and give you a realistic savings figure rather than an estimate based on annual totals alone.

## Why the shape of your usage matters

Two businesses can use the same total electricity in a year but at very different times of day. Solar only helps when you are actually using power, so knowing your half-hourly shape tells us how much of the generation you would use on site — the single biggest driver of savings.

## How to get your half-hourly data

If your site has a half-hourly meter, your electricity supplier or broker can provide the data, usually as a spreadsheet covering the last twelve months. Larger commercial sites are often already on half-hourly metering. If you are not, your annual consumption and current rates still let us produce a solid estimate.

## Frequently asked questions

**What if I do not have half-hourly data?**

No problem. We can work from your annual consumption and current tariff to produce a good estimate, then refine it if half-hourly data becomes available.

**Is my data safe with you?**

Yes. We use it only to prepare your proposal, in line with our privacy policy. We never sell your data.

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Source: [Half-hourly data explained (and why we ask for it)](https://ppafunding.com/guides/half-hourly-data-explained) · Author: PPA Funding team · Updated: 2026-07-30

PPA Funding is an independent introducer operated by DVC Group Ltd (Companies House 10462808), Shrewsbury — not the funder, the installer or the maintenance provider. The service is free to use; a commission may be earned from a partner at no extra cost. Content is educational and is not financial or tax advice.