Solar Australia – Making the Switch to Solar Power

Embracing solar power is not only about reducing electricity bills – it’s also about creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious future for Canberra. That’s why there are many rebates and incentives available for residents and businesses to help make the switch to solar energy.

These rebates are provided by the Federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) program. Essentially, STCs are tradable certificates that can be traded at point of sale for a discount on your solar system.

What are solar panels?

Solar panels are made from silicon and a protective casing that can be either glass or metal. They’re usually found on roofs, with some being mounted on low supports to gain tilt on flat roofs.

There are 3 types of solar panel, monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous. Monocrystalline is the most efficient, however, it’s also more expensive than other options.

It’s a good idea to choose an installer that understands government incentives and rebates. Look for an ACT-based company and confirm their credentials through the Australian Business Register website.

Most households in Canberra can install up to 10 kilowatts of single phase or 30 kilowatts of three-phase power without council approval. However, if your property is heritage listed or sits higher than the streetline, it may be necessary to seek approval first. Once approved, you’ll need to apply for a new connection with Evoenergy, the ACT electricity distributor. A good energy provider will have competitive feed-in tariffs that vary between about 6c and 12c per kilowatt hour.

How do solar panels work?

A solar system will convert solar energy into electricity. It is then fed into the home’s main power grid. Any electricity that is not used is exported back into the grid, earning a feed-in tariff.

There are significant up-front rebates available to those who install solar panels in Canberra. These are known as Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and are part of the federal Renewable Energy Target scheme. They are applied as a discount to the price of a solar system by reputable installers.

Securing a good deal on a solar system will depend on the size of your household and your electricity usage. However, a well-installed 6.6kW system will produce more than enough to cover your daily electricity use. The best way to get started is by finding a reputable installer in your area. This will ensure that your solar installation is done to the highest standards and that you get maximum value from it.

What are the benefits of installing solar panels?

Canberra residents can also take advantage of various energy efficiency and solar rebates offered nationally, as well as through the ACT. These incentives can help to reduce the initial cost of installation, especially for homeowners.

The ACT government has set targets to increase the use of renewables. This is great news for Canberra residents looking to reduce their electricity bills and cut their dependence on fossil fuels.

Solar panels can also be used to help heat hot water, cool the house and power devices such as dishwashers during the day, when householders are out of the house. This can significantly reduce electricity usage and improve return on investment.

As with any investment, it is important to choose a good installer to get the best value for your money. A reputable installer will be up to date with local and national incentives that can reduce the cost of your solar system. They will also have the skills and experience to complete your installation to a high standard.

How do I calculate the size of my solar system?

The size of your solar system depends on your electricity usage, offset preference and roof structure. A professional installer can help you design the ideal solar power system for your property and requirements. They can also assist with other energy optimisation measures to maximise your energy efficiency and savings.

The most accurate way to determine your electricity consumption is to track a year’s worth of power bills. Look for the kilowatt hours or kWh on each bill to find your total annual energy use.

You can use an online tool to calculate your average daily consumption in kW. Then divide this by your desired solar offset to find the required solar system size. Also consider future energy needs, such as the addition of energy-consuming appliances or expansion of your building, when calculating the size of your solar system. This will ensure your new solar power system will be able to accommodate your additional energy needs.

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