How do solar photovoltaic panels work?
Solar panels are made up special materials classified as semi-conductors which are able to generate electricity when exposed to light. Solar panel constructions are of different types some panels operate better in high temperatures and low light situations however are twice in surface area.
Will I be financially better off getting solar power?
Yes, in maximum cases, getting solar power reduces your electricity bills and allows you to save money as it dwindles the amount of power you buy from the grid, moreover, you receive tariff for excess power you sell to the grid. The amount of electricity you have will depend on various factors comprising of system size, location and your individual electricity utilization patterns. However, be frugal of the allegation that you never need to pay your bill again or eradicate it completely.
What government subsidies are available for solar power?
The Federal Government subsidy for solar power in homes, community organizations and small ventures is the Small- scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Under this provision a solar power system can fabricate Small- scale Technology Certificates (STCs) that may retailed to partially offset the price of the system. Note that STCs have replaced the former Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Feed in tariffs are another type of profit that fuels ongoing financial incentive rather than a direct price reduction. These are applied to your electricity account through your energy provider. Note that Tariff rate also vary so inquire your energy retailer what rate they provide per kW.
How long will it take for a solar power system to pay for itself?
The payback period of a solar power system ranges widely, prominently depending on the initial investment, the usage patterns of the consumer and the size of the system. For homes that utilize a small amount of electricity and receive premium feed in tariff the payback period can be less than 3 years. For households which consume more electricity and are not eligible for the premium feed in tariff, the payback period will near 7 years.
How much electricity will I generate?
The amount of electricity fabricated is dependent on numerous aspects like size, climatic conditions of the area, location, direction it is facing, whether it being covered by any shade form trees or other buildings. One of our consultants can estimate the average amount of electricity the system will provide on your home.
Will I generate enough to give back to the grid?
In majority of the cases, there are times that the solar PV system is producing more power than your household is utilizing, at such instances you will be selling the power back to the grid. If your house has very high continuous electricity use then you may not export back much electricity.
What is the difference between net metering and gross metering?
Gross metering measures all the power your solar panels produce and all the power you use in your household. Under this type of metering you are paid the gross feed tariff for all the power you produce and then you pay for the amount you consumed. This type is used where there is Gross feed tariff such as ACT. In Net metering it measures the difference between the amount you produce and consume. It is measured separately under import and export of electricity respectively. You are paid for the excess power you produce and pay for the usage tariff that you import. It is used where there is net feed tariff like NSW and Victoria.
How much will I be paid for the electricity I produce?
You will only be paid for the electricity you send to the grid. You are not paid for the electricity you use in your house or produce. You will reduce the amount you import hence reducing the total cost of your electricity purchases. You need to check the feed in tariff provided by your electricity provider and compare the offers.
What is the proposed life span of a Solar PV System?
It is estimated to continue generate electricity for 25+ years if managed properly. The manufacturers guarantee that the system will continue to produce 80% or more for 25 years.
Does the system require regular maintenance?
Very minimal maintenance is requisite provided that the components of the Solar Power System are fabricated to a high level of quality. The surface of the panels are self-cleaning depending on the degree of the pitch. However a periodical health check is recommended to ensure that the system will function its best for 25 years. You will be administered a maintenance schedule following complete installation.
Is the system exposed to corrosion?
The inverter is manufactured for exposure to the environment and are constructed to withstand all weather conditions. The frame and mounting is anodized aluminum, they are coated in an anti corrosive agent.
Will it help the environment if I get solar power?
Solar energy is classified as renewable energy. Meaning that this energy comes from sources which are naturally replenished. The sources are endless on a human timescale like sunlight, wind, rain, tides, geothermal heat etc. Furthermore, solar power generation produces no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollution. It will aid the fight against Global Warming.