Tag: Solar Panels

Going Solar: Are Solar Panel Roof Fires Something I Should be Worried About?

Solar panel fires often hit the news, not only because they’re frightening, but also because they’re rare. Here’s what you need to know about what causes solar panel roof fires and how they can be avoided.

Are you worried about solar panel roof fires? Solar panel fires often hit the news, not only because they’re frightening, but also because they’re rare. While solar panel fires have occurred, they’re generally isolated incidents that can be protected against. Solar panel fires generally occur because the installation itself is faulty, or because corners have been cut when purchasing the right materials.

Here’s what you need to know about what causes solar panel roof fires and how they can be avoided.

What Causes a Solar Panel Roof Fire?

Everyone knows that solar panels are energy-efficient and cost-effective. Not only do they save the environment by using a sustainable, renewable resource for energy, but they also save households money through reduced energy costs.

But like any other type of advanced technology, solar panels can be installed incorrectly, mishandled, or manufactured improperly.

There are two major things that can cause a solar panel roof fire:

  • Poor installation practices. Solar panels need to be installed properly, as they are electronic devices that are creating energy. Most solar panel roof fires are the consequence of installing the solar panels incorrectly. Either the installation isn’t properly reviewed by an electrician, or the cables are mismanaged and lead to a short.
  • Badly manufactured solar panels. Some companies concentrate on profit first, and consequently may not use the best quality solar panels. It’s important to look into the types of solar panels you’re having installed, as well as the company you’re working with. A reputable company is going to use the best quality solar panels available.

In short, if a high quality solar panel is installed correctly, a solar panel roof fire isn’t something that you should worry about. A solar panel installation that has been properly inspected and installed is going to be completely safe.

Protecting Yourself from a Solar Panel Roof Fire

Using trusted solar installers is the most important factor when you’re installing solar panels. Only untrustworthy solar panel installers will use badly made solar panels, or install them incorrectly. A reputable solar panel installer will install well-manufactured, safe panels, and will do so in compliance with the installation best practices.

In 2018, South Australian citizens were warned that at least one company was performing non-compliant solar panel installations, which could be dangerous and potentially catch fire. It was unknown how many citizens could ultimately be impacted, but it was expected to number in the hundreds.

The danger related to these solar panels had nothing to do with the solar panels themselves, but instead due to the non-compliant work the solar panel company was doing. Particularly, the work was not being checked and inspected by a licensed electrician as it should have been.

Many of the solar panels in businesses and residences across Australia were found to have potential issues with wiring or had not been properly inspected after installation. This is something that a trustworthy installer can protect against.

Those with incorrect solar system installations frequently notice that the installation is dispersing far more heat than it should — so there are also indicating factors that homeowners and business owners may notice before a fire ever takes place.

Even so, solar house fires are rare, and substandard solar systems are rarely discovered. Solar systems are occasionally inspected by regulators to determine how many have been installed incorrectly, with about 3.4% of systems potentially being installed in a non-compliant fashion.

Solar Panels Are Perfectly Safe, As Long As They’re Installed Properly

Ultimately, anything that conducts electricity has to be installed properly and inspected by a licensed electrician. If a solar panel installer does not have a licensed electrician available, they are likely cutting corners on the installation and the installation will be non-compliant. A homeowner can also always opt to have their solar panel installation inspected separately to verify that it is safe and correct.

Are you interested in solar panels? Fire incidents are few and far between, and as mentioned, they can be safely avoided by using a trustworthy solar partner. Speaking with a solar company, getting a quote, and finding out more about the installation process can help put you at ease.

Contact E-Smart Solar for qualified solar power installations.

 

Understanding the Key Solar System Components

LG Energy has a comprehensive list of information on everything solar, so we’ve put together some of the most relevant and frequently asked questions we get about key solar system components from their website.

Whether you already have a solar system installed or not, it is important that you understand the main components.

LG Energy has a comprehensive list of information on everything solar, so we’ve put together some of the most relevant and frequently asked questions we get about key solar system components from their website.

1. What happens to the power I don’t use?

A solar system can be connected to the grid using a Gross Meter or Net Meter.

Today most of the solar power electric systems are installed under the Net Meter scheme. A Net metering system means your inverter sends the electricity your system generates to the meter box, and from the meterbox into your house.

If you consume electricity in your house at that point in time the solar system will supply it, therefore this electricity is “free”.

If the amount of electricity generated by your solar power system is more than you consume at that point in time, the additional electricity is exported back to the grid to be used by other people.

Your Net electricity meter then measures how much you exported. The payment you receive for this exported electricity is called the feed-in-tariff. Currently it ranges from 11c to 15c per kWh exported, while you pay between 20c and 45c usually for  one kWh of electricity used. At night you import electricity and the Net meter measures how much you consumed and adds it to the electricity you consumed during the day from the grid.

The rate of feed-in-tariff you get paid varies from State to State and from energy company to energy company. We suggest you shop around. Your solar power system installer may be able to guide you as to which energy retailer offers the best feed-in-tariff rate.

Under Gross Meter scheme all the electricity generated by your solar system is exported back to the grid and you are paid for it usually by way of a credit on your electricity bill. The payment you receive for this exported electricity is called the feed-in tariff, and in the early days of solar were as high as 60c per kWh.

The Gross Meter measures the entire output of the system separately to your electricity consumption. Gross metering support plans ceased to be offered in NSW by  2011 and expired in late 2016. but in other states will be still keep going as long as the mid 2020s. . Net There are no new entrants allowed into these historically very generous support schemes.

2. Can solar PV be put on any roof in any direction?

Australia, being in the Southern Hemisphere sees the sun rise from the East and set in the West. In the middle of the day, the time of best solar irradiation, the sun sits North. There is also a variance throughout the seasons in solar radiance because of the solar solstice. The solstice is an astronomical event that occurs twice each year as the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point relative to the equator.

With the exception of southern facing or shaded roofs, most roofs are suitable to install solar. In Australia, particularly with Net Metering systems, it is important that the solar panels are located taking your own electricity consumption pattern into account. For example if you use most electricity in the morning and during the earlier part of the day then install the panels on the eastern roof. If you after the most solar electricity output from mid morning to early afternoon install the panels on the northern roof. If your children come home at 3pm and turn on all appliances, or you want to offset your air conditioner use as much as possible late in the afternoon, then you want as much solar electricity as possible in the afternoon. Therefore install the system on your western roof. Or if you get a 4 or 5 KW system you can put one solar module string on the northern roof and one string of panels on the eastern or western roof to get the whole day supplied with solar power.

While an eastern or western roof installation will produce between 5% and 15% less electricity than solar panels facing true north, the time you require the electricity and the aesthetic look of the solar system on your house are also important considerations when deciding on where to position the panels.

3. What is Net Metering?

Net meters work by continuously sampling how much electricity is being generated and how much electricity is consumed at your home. At each point in time the meter instantaneously reads the generation and consumption of the premises and the meter records both these amounts. The data is then accumulated in the appropriate register over the billing cycle. The meter is read and the bill is calculated. Now that high government sponsored feed-in tariff have stopped to be available for new customers, it is very likely that a net meter is the best way to meter your electricity after you solar power system has been installed.

Under net metering, the electricity generated by your system and consumed in your home, you pay nothing for this electricity. Whenever the solar power system generation exceeds your homes consumption, this excess amount is exported to the grid and you may earn a feed-in tariff for this exported solar electricity. Check your energy retailers solar feed-in tariff policy.

Therefore, each kWh of electricity your solar system generates and you consume in a billing period, saves you the retail price you would normally pay per kWh to your electricity retailer. For example your solar system generates 15kWh of electricity on a specific day. You use 12 KWh in your house on that day and export 3 kWh. Your electricity price charged by your electricity retailer is 35 cents per kWh and they pay you 10c in feed in tariff for each kWh.

Therefore that day your solar system earned you 12 kWh of electricity at 25 cents you did not have to buy = $3.00 and 15 cents you earned for your exported electricity. Total value of the electricity generated that day will be $3.15.

4. What angle is optimum for solar panels i.e. can they be put flat on a roof?

As Australia is in the Southern hemisphere, the solar panels produce most power when they are pointed directly at the sun i.e. North. The orientation of the panels and the angle they are tilted will have a greater effect on annual energy production.

Most Australian homes have a roof pitch of 20° to 30° which is considered optimum for maximizing solar power generation. However, the panels can be installed anywhere between 10 to 35 deg with negligible efficiency loss. A minimum tilt of 10° is recommended to ensure self-cleaning by rainfall.

Whilst flat installation on roofs is possible, please consider that dust and debris are less likely to be washed off, if the panel is not tilted at least 10 degrees. More frequent panel cleaning by hand might have to be considered in such installation situations.

If your roof’s slope is not ideal, contact your nearest LG solar installer who will advise you on the correct orientation and elevation of your panel. Maybe a tilt frame is an option that could be considered.

5. How do different sizes of panels affect my system? Is a larger panel better?

Panel sizes don’t affect the outcome. A 3.6kWh system is what it says – a 3600W system which can be made up of panels of any size. However in urban areas where roof space is at a premium, higher wattage panels like LG’s 360 NeON R  panels, help you put panels that generate more power on your roof.

6. How likely is it that solar panels could be damaged by hail, frost or extreme heat?

Solar panels are designed to withstand varying weather conditions for many years. Hail, frost and very hot weather are part of the Australian landscape. LG panels are designed and tested to withstand hail stones up to 28mm, 90 degree hot temperatures and up to -40 degree frost.

Nevertheless should extreme hailstones cause any damage to your solar system most of the home insurance companies cover hail damage as the solar system installed on the roof is part of your building. However, different insurance companies can have different rules. We suggest you should find out if your solar power system is covered in your particular circumstances.

7. If I get solar is it recommended that I stay connected to the electricity grid?

Solar systems can be operated with batteries and it is conceivable that you disconnect from the grid. These systems are called off grid solar systems. Nevertheless, such systems require a substantial battery bank which adds significantly to the cost of the solar power system. In most cases an off grid system only makes sense in remote areas.

Lithium storage batteries have been offered to the market since mid 2015. Pricing has already dropped and will continue to reduce. It is anticipated that in the future small storage system for homes will come to the market at even more reasonable prices and this will allow you to use your stored solar power during sunless periods during the day and at night.

You will need certain preconditions to disconnect from the grid in an urban environment

  • A large roof space facing N, NW, NE and potentially also East and West.
  • High productivity panels that enable you to generate more solar power per square meter. For example, the LG NeON 2 panel is rated 315W in contrast to most other panels that are rated 260W-265W.
  • Large capacity, affordably priced solar batteries for daily storage to consume at night. This is a new, burgeoning market that is offering batteries with greater storage capacity at cheaper prices.
  • Affordable long term storage. The greatest storage capacity at the moment is between 15-20kW. To disconnect from the grid, a household would need to store at least a weeks supply of power to allow for rainy days.That would require 100-200kW of storage capacity. Also there are less sunlight hours in winter so affordable long term solutions to store excess summer power needs to be developed with 1000-2000kW capacity.

8. I understand there is a ‘gross’ meter or a ‘net’ meter to measure solar power generation. Which one is the right one for my switch board?

The time of high, government sponsored feed in tariffs has ended, in most cases a net solar meter will best suit your property. Gross meters measure all the electricity generated by your system and all the electricity is exported to the grid. At the time of high feed in tariffs (2009 to 2012), Gross meters were the preferred metering option.

In a net metering situation the solar power system generates electricity and this “solar electricity” then supplies your home/businesses’ electricity needs. What you do not use is exported to the power grid. Make sure your individual electricity retailer gives you a credit for the exported electricity. If they do not, you can explore the options from other electricity retailers for the best offer and option suitable for you. Your local solar installer might be able to recommend the electricity retailer offering the highest feed in tariff.

9. Why are panels different in size and output?

Solar panels are used for a variety of applications from a small garden solar light to space stations and satellites. The use of the solar product determines the size of the panel. In residential solar systems the large panels with average outputs from 250W to 320W are used. LG’s 285W, 300W and 320W panels have been optimised to give you the best value for money.

10. How is the solar energy your solar system generates, measured?

Your electricity meter in the switchboard collects a range of data on how much electricity you consume and how much you generate via the solar system. Strict rules are in place to guide metering practices within the electricity marketplace including measurement requirements. These are set out in the National Electricity Rules.

The data measured by your electricity meter is provided to:

  • your electricity retailer; and
  • the market operator (the Australian Energy Market Operator).

The actual generation and consumption data sent to the electricity retailer is used to calculate your solar bonus payments (feed-in tariff) and your consumption after your solar system supplied your home.

Metering arrangements can vary across different states and energy supply companies. However, the meter measures your electricity consumption and generation continuously, and it is measured in kilowatts per hour (kW/h). This data is then captured, usually for three monthly readings, so that the information can be used for billing purposes.

Learn more about key solar system components on the LG Energy site. Contact E-Smart Solar about any questions you may have about solar.

 

Monocrystalline vs polycrystalline solar panels – which one do I choose?

It’s the question of the moment in Sydney’s Penrith and Blue Mountains communities, so we break it down

It’s a question that’s been coming up a lot lately. All of the information can be overwhelming, and with the technology behind solar it’s hard to know exactly where the sweet spot is with panels unless you’re working with them on a daily basis.

 This is particularly so for the Penrith and Blue Mountains areas where our clients seek the best possible combination of high quality and competitive pricing. But in doing so, questions arise about technology. In solar it’s important to understand the performance advantages offered by the two different materials. After all, does it matter if you install monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels for our Western Sydney climate? Is the choice impacted by our home design, particularly in the Blue Mountains where houses are often designed in relation to the landscape? And does brand really matter?

So let’s take a step back for a minute look at the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, as well as our thoughts on which is better for the cities of Penrith and the Blue Mountains.

What’s the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels?

What the panels are made of

Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are built using the same raw material. However the difference comes down to the composition of the silicone substrate used to make the solar cells, which are then used to build the panels. We think of it in terms of “mono” and “poly” – mono means single, where as poly means multiple. This applies to the silicone – monocrystalline means a single crystal, and polycrystalline means multiple crystals. So monocrystalline solar panels are constructed using single crystals, while polycrystalline solar panels are constructed using numerous crystals.

How efficient the panels are

Given that monocrystalline panels are made of single crystals, giving them a higher silicone purity, they’re larger and more efficient. In fact, monocrystalline cells can be over 10% more efficient than their polycrystalline counterparts. This means lower space efficiency – for the same power output as panels made of monocrystalline, you need to cover a larger surface area.

How much the panels cost

But – and there’s always a but – manufacturing a monocrystalline cell takes longer, requires higher temperatures, and produces more waste. And of course increased preparation results in one thing – increased manufacturing costs. But this cost may be offset by the fact that less panels are required.

The pros and cons of monocrystalline versus polycrystalline solar panels

  • Polycrystalline solar panels are ideal for installations with unlimited roof or ground space – suitable for many Blue Mountains homes… but monocrystalline panels are ideal for smaller rooftops or space-confined rooftops as they give more power for the same surface area – suitable for the Penrith CBD
  • Polycrystalline solar panels are ideal for customer to minimise upfront installation costs… but monocrystalline solar panels may offer ongoing savings by maximising your roof space to more harness electricity.

So which is better – monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels?

There are arguments each way! Yes, less panels are required if you use monocrystalline solar panels, but then you lack the additional benefit of roof insulation offered by the increased spread of polycrystalline solar panels! OK, so we may be stretching things here but you can see where we’re going… each has their pros and cons.

You also need to remember that there are so many variables to the cost and performance of your system, including your inverter, the orientation of your roof and even the tilt of your solar panels.

So for us, one of the most critical things to consider is the manufacturer.

Why the manufacturer of your solar panels matters

Well here’s our take. Technology is definitely important, but as both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are each produced with advanced manufacturing techniques (and use proven technology, of course), we need to look further.

Peace of mind: Choosing a proven, quality-focused manufacturer will not only give you peace of mind that they’ll be around for the long-term, but also that they invest on ongoing research and development to continually deliver improved products.

Reliability: The other element is reliability. For most of us, balancing reliability with affordability is a major component of our decision-making – solar is a along-term investment. So choosing a trusted name means that your 25 or 30-year warranty will remain safe because if your manufacturer does go out of business and something goes wrong with your panels, your warranty will be no longer be serviceable.

Minimising your risk: Think about it in terms of risk management. Invest in slightly more today for a reputable provider who’s done their due diligence and invested in quality manufacturing processes and technologies, or risk the possibility of paying more down the track if panels do need repairing.

This is why we’ve done our research and only partner with reputable companies who:

  • Have a long-standing history in innovative solar panel development
  • Demonstrate best practice and invest in quality
  • Deliver outstanding customer service, and
  • Are proactive in the marketplace.

For our clients, LG is a major favourite because they’re looking to future-proof their home and their investment. When considering roof space, battery storage and the possibility of powering electric vehicles in the future, the LG brand offers a diverse range of options to suit.

Their strong performance history and reliability also gives us confidence they’ll be here to honour their product warranties (25 years for NeOnR and 12 years for NeOn2). They’re a multi-billion dollar diversified company, which undoubtedly lowers risk as, unlike other panel brands, there are no majority shareholders or other players involved. LG also has a local office in Eastern Creek so for Western Sydney, Penrith and Blue Mountains customers, this is a bonus!

And of course, with performance they’re right up there. LG now go up to a 360w panel with the same footprint as a standard solar panel (by comparison, Sunpower goes up to a 415w but on a much larger panel size).

But something to think about…

One thing we’re becoming more aware of as innovators such as Elon Musk continue to deliver advancement in the solar industry is the potential of the technology. We already have battery systems and electric cars – where else will the harnessing of solar energy take us? So with this in mind, think of your future needs. At some point, the amount of solar energy we’re able to use will only be limited by the size of the surface area we can place the panels on. So if you want to get the most out of your roof space, maybe think about module efficiency. But remember – it’s not the only consideration!

Over to you

Do you have any thoughts, experiences or questions on monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels? Let us know! We’d love to hear your thoughts and answer your questions.

Why now the right time to invest in solar panels for your business

With costs increasing, more and more commercial clients are looking to run leaner. With solar, you can too – and now is the perfect time to install

With rising electricity costs and a significant decrease in the cost of solar systems, solar power has become an incredibly cost-effective energy alternative for businesses.

The larger corporations are definitely leading the charge, but many small and medium-sized companies are now actively investigating exactly how solar energy can have more of an impact on their bottom line. Here, we show you how save money with solar energy for your business.

Why now is the best time to install solar for your business

Solar panels have never been cheaper or so effective – but the cost will rise

We’re seeing it more and more – companies are running leaner to keep up with the rising costs of business. They’re introducing efficiencies and processes, reducing headcount, and even cutting back on some of the essentials of running a business (we’re not talking coffee which is a definite essential, but we are talking things like marketing initiatives).

But many don’t see their ‘fixed’ costs as being something they can actually influence. And electricity is one of those fixed costs. You can run financially leaner by reducing the cost of your power bills with solar panels.

For a business, now is the right time. 2018. The price has come down exponentially over the last 5+ years. From our perspective, ten years ago we used to purchase a 150-watt panel for approximately 80% more than we currently spend for a 360-watt panel. Yes, you read that right! We pay 80% less today for a far superior product.

In addition, the panels are the same size but offer increased efficiency. So think about it – they cost about a third of what they did, yet their efficiency has more than doubled. Why?

Ongoing industry investment has seen incredible development in manufacturing processes. Research and development has seen organic matter cost less per watt to produce while also offering increased solar efficiency. And evolving innovations that look for further solar technology opportunities are spiking commercial interest.

But it will plateau. And we believe it will be soon.

We’ve come an incredibly long way in ten years. But the reality is, we’re working with specialist products that are significant in size. Regardless, there’ll still be shipping charges, docking costs, wholesaler tariffs, and the cost to get them to our door. And like everything else, these costs will continue to increase over time. So while the price point for solar panels has plateaued for a few years, now is undeniably the time to buy.

Government incentives are decreasing

With the Australian Government’s commitment to green energy, we’ve seen an investment in Small Technology Certificates, commonly known as STCs, which are essentially the Government rebate.

But the number of STCs you’ll receive each year drops.

Not only that, but the STC price rises and falls depending on market demand. When it falls, the price of your system increases significantly. It’s currently quite high, saving you money on installation, but it won’t stay like this forever! For business, this presents a significant saving opportunity. Jump on it.

You can currently claim a rebate when investing in solar for your business

We’re no tax accountants, but you do get tax incentives for installing solar panels in your business.

If you own your premises, you can claim your solar panels as capital improvement.

If you lease your premises, you can claim your solar panels as a leasehold improvement.

The investment is depreciated over time. However if you’re a small business, you can also look at the $20k instant tax asset write-off. Provided you use electricity as part of producing your income, you can claim the entire deduction straight away.

Case Study: Commercial business invests in reducing $20k/week electricity costs

We recently provided a ballpark quote for a commercial client. This client currently pays a whopping $20,000 a week for their electricity.

After calculating the numbers, we identified that they required 1,000 panels on a single site. They’re currently investigating the options from an investment perspective as they lease the premises but, regardless, their system will pay itself back well before the lease ends.

But if they don’t do it this year, they’re mad. On a system of this size, the rebate will have a significant impact – thousands of dollars every week and reducing their power requirements from the grid by 50%. And of course, the longer they wait the more the system will cost. So really, every day it’s not on the roof is costing them money.

Historically speaking, there’s never been a better time to install solar panels for your business

From a commercial perspective, the time to install solar panels in your business has never been better.

When you combine the decreased cost of panel prices (alongside the increased efficiency they’re providing), as well as the increasing cost of living, construction industry increases and decreasing rebates – why wouldn’t you do it now?

There’s no point putting it off for a year or two because, just like our client, every day they aren’t on the roof is costing you money.

Over to you

What do you think? Is now the right time for commercial businesses to install solar? Let us know! We’d love to hear your thoughts and answer your questions.

The pros and cons of solar energy for your home

Five things to consider before investing in solar

Using solar energy to meet your power demands reduces costs while also making you more environmentally friendly. But it’s also an investment, which means that you need to consider both the pros and the cons of installing solar energy in your home.

If you’re thinking about solar, consider these factors before making a purchase.

Pro: Less reliance on grid electricity reduces your bills

Cost savings are often the most significant factor for a lot of clients. When you use your solar energy, you’re relying less on your electricity company. This means that your monthly bills go down.

And a battery system will take your savings even further. You can store and sell excess energy back to the electricity company. You can even store your electricity company’s electricity during off-peak times, when prices are lowest, and then use that energy during peak periods. Lots of options!

Con: There is an upfront cost before the savings kick in

Yes, solar definitely saves you money, particularly over the long term. But the cost of manufacturing and installing solar panels is still high. The bigger your energy needs, the larger your investment. Nevertheless, it is an investment, and some companies even offer payment plans that make it incredibly accessible.

Pro: Solar energy is a renewable energy source

Solar energy is a renewable energy source. This is unlike other forms of energy that have a limited lifespan, such as coal and fossil fuels. As long as the sun remains alive (and that’s going to be a while – about 6.5 billion years, in fact!), we can’t run out of solar energy.

It’s also abundant – we could power all of earth with solar energy and still have solar radiation left to spare!

Con: It requires space

This one isn’t really a con because, let’s face it – what else are we going to do with the real estate on our roof? But the more energy you require to power your home, the more panels you need. And while we work out your specific energy needs before calculating how much power can be produced in your space, generally speaking the larger the home, the more panels you’ll need.

Pro: Solar energy is sustainable, which means a better planet for your children (and theirs)

Sustainable energy sources meet the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. We can’t over-consume solar, and it leaves no harmful side effects. And yes, while the manufacturing, transportation and installation of solar power systems do cause some emissions, they truly are minimal compared to most conventional sources of energy.

Con: Without a battery, solar power is intermittent

As our access to sunlight is limited to daytime (not to mention good weather!), solar energy is an intermittent energy source. This is somewhat resolved with the decreasing costs of battery systems, making them far more accessible to the average homeowner. But without one, your solar system won’t meet 100% of your energy demands.

Pro: They’re ultra-quiet and require little maintenance

Many alternative energy sources are limited to remote areas because of the noise they make (wind turbines are a prime example). But residential solar panels have no moving parts, so they weave their magic in glorious silence.

In terms of maintenance, they only need cleaning twice a year, purely so dirt and bird droppings don’t reduce their efficiency. And with no moving parts, they also last for decades.

From a technical maintenance perspective, there are products that alert us to issues and let us update your firmware remotely – you don’t even have to pick up the phone if you suspect there’s an issue!

Con: Not all solar panels are created equal

A huge variety of panels on the market, with varying levels of efficiency, durability, reliability, output and design, mean that there’s also a huge variety of price points. Choosing the right system can be difficult – it can be tempting to invest in an option that’s purely based on cost. But considering the impact of all of those factors in your system’s performance and longevity, it’s worthwhile to do your research and invest in quality panels.

To solar or not to solar… that is the question

When you consider it, the negatives are minimal in comparison to the benefits. But solar isn’t going to be the right choice for everyone. There are a whole lot of factors to take in, from environmental and economical through to grid independence, your location, and even advancing technology. But the bottom line is this: in the energy world, solar power compares incredibly well against other technologies for all of these factors.

The reality is, the future of solar is looking rather bright. Quite literally!

The solar benefits of a sunburnt country

Extreme heat seems set to have become the new norm for us Aussies.

The recent heatwaves broke weather records, especially here in Penrith where we saw the mercury climb as high as 46.9.

Luckily for us, though, we managed to avoid the blackouts that hit other areas. But it could so easily have been us who were left without the comfort of air conditioning, fans or even cold water from the fridge. And when you consider that we’re usually the ones with the highest number on the nightly weather map (as well as our friends over in Richmond), it’s scary.

What’s really frightening is that our hottest summer on record is unlikely to be a one-off. This means that all of us – from entire families through to the elderly – will no longer be able to classify things like air conditioning as a ‘luxury’. It’s becoming an essential, but one that will continue to cost us an arm and a leg.

Or will it?

Turn on the sun to beat the heat

The extreme heat of our wide brown land may be a problem, but also brings its own relief. As individuals, we can harness the forces of nature for our benefit thanks to modern technology.

How? Solar power.

We all know how huge power stations are. Even the average sub-station in suburban Kingswood is about the same size as neighbouring homes. But it’s 2017, and thanks to photovoltaic panels (best known as solar panels to we normal folk) and solar storage batteries, every house can be its own power station.

Solar power has come a long way since the very first (and very expensive!) solar hot water heaters started to emerge on Australian roofs more than 60 years ago.

Panels that could be hooked up to power everything in the house, from the TV and lights though to the fridge and microwave, hit the market late last century. But, of course, what was generated on the roof wasn’t what fired up the average household appliance.

Instead, it was fed back into the power grid. This same power then came back into the property in the normal way.

Fast-forward to today, and solar panels are not only an affordable option but they also provide significant advantages. Not only is the power you generate from your roof used to power your home, but the excess can also be sold back to the electricity company.

And thanks to the ability to store that same power in the new breed of solar batteries on the market, we can use our own power as needed.

No more reliance on the grid, no more expensive bills. It’s a game changer.

The incredible benefits of solar

Prices are decreasing as us Aussies embrace the tech

Australians lead the world as early adopters of new technology. (Smartphone anyone?) In fact, The Climate Council predicts that half of all households in Australia are predicted to adopt a solar system, with battery storage, over the next ten years.

We’re already far ahead of the rest of the world, with 27.4 million solar panels (and counting) having been installed as at January this year.

And as more and more people put solar panels on the roof, the more the price falls. The same goes for the relatively new solar storage batteries, pioneered by Tesla. The more we buy, the less they’ll cost.

When being a “Westie” is wonderful

Australia isn’t called the sunburnt country for nothing. Our country averages more solar radiation per square kilometre than anywhere else in the world. In fact, it’s 10,000 times more energy than we use. Bad news for vampires. Very good news for the rest of us, especially in the warm west. So for us Penrith folk, we can really get a great return from our system.

Tell the power company where to go

Politely, of course! Seriously though, it’s a great feeling not to be beholden to a faceless entity that supplies something that’s a necessity, not a luxury, but ups the price whenever they feel like it and can’t even guarantee supply.

Solar panels and batteries give us financial independence from big companies and, after set-up costs, provide free power. And if we sell back to the grid, they can reduce our overall electricity costs even further!

Going… Going… Gone!

Home buyers are increasingly attracted to properties that are energy and water efficient. Some even make it a prerequisite when listing the features they are seeking when briefing real estate agents. So installing solar panels, especially if you go the whole hog and have storage batteries, gives your home a positive selling point. And of course, solar will undeniably add to its value.

Luxuries like air conditioning and home pools are becoming essential, but ones that will continue to cost us an arm and a leg.

Or will they?

Do your bit for the planet

Even if you don’t plan to move any time soon, installing a solar power system can reduce your carbon footprint. Unlike traditional electricity sources, solar energy is green, clean and renewable.

The panels don’t release greenhouse gases and don’t pollute the air. Yes, electricity is used the make them, but it’s minimal compared to the power you can save and pollution you prevent by having them. I know I’m a bit of a greenie at heart, but I really am committed to proactively improving the sustainability of our planet for our children and their children – one energy-efficient solution at a time.

H2GO

Water, another scarce resource on the world’s driest continent, is another resource we’re all incredibly conscious of conserving. With Warragamba Dam just up the road, its water levels (and safety) have been a big part of the Penrith community psyche for decades. Changing over to solar energy greatly reduces the water consumption used to produce other forms of energy, making sure it’s available for the things we really need it for, like drinking.

In an age when everyone is concerned about reducing pollution while also being conscious of spending, solar power plays an important part. Its production generates no waste and doesn’t even create noise.

In the end, solar is very much a part of Australia’s energy future. And as more and more people seek to free themselves of the rising costs and inevitable unreliability of grid dependence, our sundrenched Nepean shores will prove to be our greatest asset.

 

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What to do when the NSW 60 cent solar rebate ends

60c Feed-in Tariff ends December 2016

The NSW solar bonus scheme and 60c Feed-in Tariff will be ending on 31 December this year. E-Smart Solar was recently a guest on Blue Mountains Radio’s Business Show discussing the end of the Feed-in Tariff (FiT). Approximately146,000 of NSW households will be affected by the changes, if you are one of the many people affected we’ve listed some tips below to help you prepare for the changeover:

  1. Change your Gross Meter to a Net meter – some retailers are offering this for free, otherwise your local Level 2 electrician (yes, that would be E-Smart Solar!) can do this for you.
  2. Look at shifting your energy loads – it’s simple, but sometimes easy to forget. Shifting your energy consumption to when the sun is shining and solar is at its peak is best practice and will set you up with amazing energy habits (if you don’t already have them!). Things like scheduling your washing machine or dishwasher to work during the day will go a long way in saving you money on your energy bill.
  3. Reevaluate your energy retailer – are there better deals out there and can you renegotiate your rate? As always, it’s worth shopping around to see what offers best suit your needs.
  4. Get more solar panels – more solar panels can be a great solution for those not yet ready to commit to battery storage. Solar panel efficiency has increased significantly in recent years – during the 60-cent scheme, the typical output for a solar panel was around 250w. This has now increased to around 320w for the same size panel – a whopping 28% increase in energy output.
  5. Install solar batteries – solar batteries are currently on everybody’s lips courtesy of the Tesla Powerwall. Batteries are a fantastic way to make use of your daytime solar power and use it at night when sunshine’s not available and energy costs are at their peak. Technology such as Reposit  can also work with your retailer and reduce your battery payback period by 30%.

Questions? Shoot us an email or give us a call on 02 4703 5411 (02 ESMART). We’re here to help.

10 ways to improve your eco credentials at home

Sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact

Getting started is often the hardest step – whether it be writing your very first blog post (eek!) or reducing your carbon footprint. We hear you!

But often, it’s the culmination of small changes that have the largest impact. As a result we’ve put together a simple list to get you on your way to improving your eco credentials around the home.

Buy in season…

Avoid fruit and veggies that have been flown halfway around the world and shop at your local farmers market. Not only will you be supporting local suppliers, you’ll have less plastic in your life and a far better taste in your mouth!

Fix that tap!

It’s difficult to conceptualise, but a slow leaking tap can waste an incredible 20,000 litres of water per annum. That’s the entire amount available each year to many people around the world.

 Say no to plastic

In excess of 450,000 recyclable plastic supermarket bags are dumped into landfill every hour (horrifying but true!). Be prepared, and bring your own bags when grocery shopping.

 Use the cold wash

About three-quarters of the energy and greenhouse gas emissions from washing a load of laundry comes purely from heating the water. There’s no need to boil your load; manage your settings and just chill.

Use a dishwasher

It’s not a myth, it’s true – washing up by hand with hot water and rinsing really does leave a bigger carbon footprint than a dishwasher.

Fill your dishwasher, put it on an energy efficient setting and go tend to your herbs…

Grow your own herbs

They taste better, give you a chance to get outside in the sunshine, you’ll save money and you’ll never have a bland dish again. Too easy!

Use your (good old Aussie) hills hoist

Reduce your carbon footprint by using the great Aussie invention, the Hills Hoist. Relish the warmth of the sunshine on your clothes. It beats a dryer any day and you’ll have the extra coins in your pocket.

Recycle your plastic bags

Sometimes plastic bags are unavoidable; the good news is that most supermarkets have recycling stations for your convenience. Save your plastic bags and next time you’re at the shops, pop them into the recycling – it’s that simple.

Avoid free bags

How many do you really need? Around the world, we use and throw away a trillion recyclable bags every year. Crazy! Bring your own bags, dust off your Nanna’s trolley, or just carry your shopping in your hot little hands.

Use renewable energy

Electricity accounts for about 53% of the energy used in Australian households but creates around 87% of the greenhouse gas emissions (DEWHA 2008). Limit your greenhouse gas emissions where you can by utilising renewable energy sources, such as solar panels.

Do you have any more tips?

We’d love to know your thoughts and tips for an eco friendly home! Comment below and let us know your tips for reducing your carbon footprint – we love new ideas!