If are planning to make the switch to solar power then it is a very wise decision. However before making the switch there are some things you need to consider which will help you to make the right decisions and get the best out of your solar investment.
Here is an overview of the things you need to know:
The Solar Panels
Knowing a simple overview of how solar technology works is very helpful for your understanding of the whole concept and goal of the system. It is simple to search online and find easy to understand diagramsshowing how solar panels convert the sun’s energy to electricity and how the other components function.
Having an idea of the best quality solar power components is also important. You can check for the qualified manufacturers and retailers in the clean energy council of Australia to ensure that the system is of the highest standards.
Also only purchase from a reputable well established solar PV company who takes the time to come to your home and quote, after 1st doing an assessment to establish which system will best suit your individual circumstances & energy requirements.
The Installation
The proper installation is as essential as this influences the ongoing efficiency of your system, and should only be done by certified and experienced installers.
The proper angling of the panels will ensure maximum sun hours and the shading should be considered with high regards. Ideally no obstruction should be in the way of the system. Also all of the system components and parts should be closely checked to ensure they are in perfect condition before installation begins.
The braces and harness that will be used to secure the solar panels on your roof should be made from high grade material to ensure that it is correctly stabilized in position.
Aside from efficiency purposes, the installation process is also centered on the safety of your home. Though the components themselves are manufactured to the highest standard, the system is dealing with electricity and it is better to be safer than safe.
As such it is also part of the installer’s job to explain to you how the system works and the correct shutdown procedures should you ever need to do so.
Government rebates and Feed in Tariff Schemes
The government rebates and solar schemes are what will enable you to can gain the greatest financial benefits from your investments. Australia is operating under a decentralised program where individual states are implementing different schemes so check what the current conditions are in your area.
Before purchasing a system you must understand the policies first. Australian states allow a maximum system size of 5 MW but it is still best to check with your local electricity provider for the exact size they will accept as you will be entering into a contract with them directly
As mentioned above the installers and manufacturers must be qualified under Australia’s clean energy council for you to be eligible for any rebates. This is primarily for safety reasons and for efficiency purposes.
The rebates are a government subsidy which provides a sizeable discount for the upfront cost of the system. There is a federal rebate which gives Renewable Energy Credits depending on the size of the system you install. Depending on your location there may be other local and state government schemes and incentives in place as well, and normally pensioners and the low income sectors are given higher rebates.
All states of Australia have implemented schemes called the feed in tariff which allows for a set amount of money paid for every kilowatt fed back to the state grid by your system. If your state has not yet reached its cap for the Premium scheme then this can be a lucrative source of income.
Your system can be directly connected to the grid using smart meters for monitoring and solar inverters for the importation and exportation. Qualifying for the scheme is on a first come first serve basis since most state governments have set a cap for the scheme of a total amount of power produced rather than an end date, and some states such as NSW have already closed.
With electricity prices continuing to rise steadily it is in the best financial interest of every home and business owner to make the switch to solar power; you’ll be saving yourself money and saving the planet at the same time!
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