The Complete Guide to a 13.2kW Solar System in Australia
As energy prices rise and environmental consciousness grows, more Australians are looking towards solar power to meet their energy needs. One popular option is the 13.2kW solar system, which offers significant power generation for homes and businesses alike. But what makes this system the right choice for you? Let’s explore the ins and outs of a 13.2kW solar system in Australia, so you can make an informed decision.
What is a 13.2kW Solar System?
A 13.2kW solar system is a powerful renewable energy solution designed to generate electricity from the sun. It typically includes around 33 to 40 solar panels, depending on the efficiency and size of the panels used. This system is popular in Australia due to its ability to generate a substantial amount of energy, making it ideal for medium to large households or small to medium-sized businesses.
Why Choose a 13.2kW Solar System?
- High Energy Output
A 13.2kW system is capable of producing up to 50 to 60 kWh of electricity per day. For context, the average Australian household uses around 15 to 20 kWh per day. This means that with a 13.2kW system, you can not only meet your daily energy needs but also potentially generate excess energy, which can be sold back to the grid (depending on your energy provider’s policies). It’s perfect for homes that have high energy demands or for small businesses that need a lot of electricity to operate.
- Cost Savings
Installing a 13.2kW solar system can lead to significant long-term savings on electricity bills. With Australia’s abundant sunshine, especially in regions like Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia, your solar system can generate a considerable amount of free electricity, reducing your reliance on the grid. Many households report savings of up to 60-80% on their energy bills after installing a system of this size.
- Eco-Friendly Energy
Solar power is one of the cleanest forms of energy available. By installing a 13.2kW solar system, you’re taking a proactive step towards reducing your carbon footprint. On average, a system of this size can offset around 17 tonnes of CO2 per year, equivalent to planting over 250 trees annually!
Is a 13.2kW Solar System Right for Your Home or Business?
Before committing to a 13.2kW solar system, it’s essential to assess your energy needs. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Household Size and Energy Usage
- Large households with multiple air conditioners, pool pumps, or electric vehicle chargers will benefit from the energy output of a 13.2kW system.
- Small businesses like cafes, workshops, or offices with high daytime electricity use are perfect candidates for this system size.
Available Roof Space
A 13.2kW solar system requires 60 to 70 square metres of roof space. This is important to consider, as not all homes or businesses may have the available surface area to support the number of panels required.
Budget Considerations
The initial investment for a 13.2kW solar system is higher than smaller systems, but the long-term savings are significant. Additionally, you can take advantage of government solar rebates and incentives to reduce upfront costs.
Cost of a 13.2kW Solar System in Australia
The cost of a 13.2kW solar system can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the solar panels, the type of inverter used, and the installer’s pricing. On average, Australians can expect to pay between $10,000 to $15,000 for a fully installed system. While this may seem like a substantial investment, the payback period is often between 3 to 5 years, after which you’ll be enjoying free energy for the remainder of your system’s 25-year lifespan.
Solar Rebates and Incentives in Australia
To make solar more affordable, the Australian government offers several rebates and incentives. The most prominent is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) based on the size of your system and your location. These STCs can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your system.
Additionally, some states offer feed-in tariffs, allowing you to sell any excess energy your 13.2kW solar system generates back to the grid, further improving your return on investment.
How Much Energy Can a 13.2kW Solar System Generate?
The amount of energy a 13.2kW solar system generates depends on several factors, including your location, the orientation of your panels, and weather conditions. On average, a 13.2kW system in Australia will generate:
- Per day: 50 to 60 kWh
- Per month: 1,500 to 1,800 kWh
- Per year: 18,000 to 21,000 kWh
This is more than enough to power large households and small businesses, and in many cases, you’ll have extra energy to spare, which can be stored in a battery system or sold back to the grid.
Solar Storage: The Perfect Pairing
If you’re considering a 13.2kW solar system, it’s worth looking into solar batteries as well. With a battery storage system, you can store excess electricity generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods. Popular options like the Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem RESU can further reduce your reliance on the grid and increase your energy independence.
Maintenance of a 13.2kW Solar System
One of the great things about solar systems is that they require minimal maintenance. A 13.2kW solar system generally needs:
- Annual cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate on the panels and reduce efficiency. A simple clean once or twice a year can help maintain optimal performance.
- Regular monitoring: Most inverters come with a monitoring app that lets you track your system’s energy production. This helps identify any issues early on.
- Inverter replacement: Solar inverters typically last 10-15 years, so you may need to replace your inverter once during the system’s lifespan.
Conclusion: Is a 13.2kW Solar System in Australia Worth It?
A 13.2kW solar system is a fantastic choice for Australian homes and businesses with high energy needs. While the initial cost may be higher than smaller systems, the long-term benefits in terms of cost savings, energy independence, and environmental impact make it a worthwhile investment. With government rebates and incentives, the affordability of solar has never been better.
If you’re ready to reduce your electricity bills and take control of your energy future, a 13.2kW solar system could be the perfect fit. Plus, with Australia’s sunny climate, you’ll be generating clean, renewable energy all year round.
Interested in installing a 13.2kW solar system in Australia? Contact a trusted solar installer today to find out how you can get started on your solar journey!