Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is solar power right for you?
When using a solar panel system (also called a photovoltaic or PV system) to produce electricity, you’re buying less electricity from your utility company and relying on the renewable energy your solar panels produce.
In order to calculate if solar is right for you, it’s important to consider the following:
Review your utility bill to see how much energy you're using, and note the difference between the metered electricity costs and other items such as delivery or administration costs.
Evaluate how you use energy in the home – there are many ways to reduce your consumption. Installing LED lights, tinting windows, increasing insulation and ventilation or even closing doors of rooms not in use when heating or cooling. See the Household Energy Action Guide list here.
Consider how long you plan to stay in your home or rented premises. Residential solar systems are designed to last for 20 years, with a return on investment showing within the first 1-5 years.
How much does it cost to install solar?
The cost of your solar system is affected by a number of factors, including:
Government rebates and incentives
Type and number of solar panels
Type and size of inverter
Type of framing equipment and other system components
Height and accessibility of roof, and whether it is tiled, metal or concrete
Contractor installation costs
You can view a guide on solar costings via the Clean Energy Council website here.
What is a solar inverter?
A solar inverter is a component that forms part of your solar electric power system. It converts the direct current (DC) output of a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel into alternating current (AC) used in your home. This electricity is then fed into your home to operate your appliances. The leftover electricity that isn’t used is then fed back into the grid (to electrical power lines) or into home battery storage.
Long-lasting solar power systems require a high quality inverter. We'll quote you various priced inverters and panel packages specific to your needs.
How much do I save if I install a solar system?
Do I get money back if my solar feeds power back into the grid?
For each kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity you produce (that isn’t used immediately), you will get money back in the form of a feed-in tariff. This tariff will be applied in the form of deduction to your regular bill, from your electricity provider.
A high feed-in tariff can help drastically reduce what you pay for electricity, which is why it’s so important to shop around for the best solar deal to suit you. More information about feed-in tariffs can be found at the Consumer Affairs website here.