15 Things to Consider Before Installing Residential Solar Panels
More and more people in Australia are beginning to invest in solar power systems. They’re installing residential solar panels on their roofs, and why not? Solar power technology has advanced dramatically in recent years, with many of these advances lowering the equipment cost involved. Solar panels installed on your roof are also a great way to produce energy for your home or company. As well as the grid, but without increasing the environmental impact.
There are 15 Things to Consider Before Installing Residential Solar Panels
1. Does your roof need repairs?
Ask yourself, “How old is my roof?” before you can consider adding solar panels. Installing solar panels is probably not the best option if you know you’ll need a new roof soon or if a section of your roof is damaged. If possible, complete all roof repairs before the installation. You won’t have to pay extra to take down the job and then reassemble it (in some cases for at least 20 years).
Another thing to think about is the difference between the warranty on your roof and the warranty on your solar panels. When you have solar panels that will last 20 years but a roof that will only last 10–15, the maintenance costs will rise. And save time, effort, and resources, try to balance both projects regarding how long they will last.
2. What is the shape of your roof?
Roofs come in many different shapes and sizes. Before you start the installation process, make sure that your roof has enough space for the solar panels. If your roof is not big enough, you likely will not get the return you expected on the time of investment.
3. Is it necessary to check the roof slope before Solar panel Installation?
To produce the most power, solar panels must be installed in a specific location. The majority of experts recommend facing the panels south, while others recommend facing them west. Regardless, you must decide on this information before the installation can begin.
4. How much weight can your roof handle?
Installing solar panels will add to the weight of your roof’s structure. Your roof will collapse if the weight of these solar panels is too much for it to handle. This is extremely risky for a variety of reasons, not to mention expensive. To prevent any of these situations, have a professional inspect your roof to see if additional help is required to finish the installation.
5. Where will the water go?
Water flows down the roof, into the gutters, and out and away from your home when it rains. Equipment like racking and wire harnesses will prevent water from flowing and draining properly when installing solar panels. Solar equipment may also cause water flow in the wrong direction, creating leaks and other problems. These issues will need to be addressed, which will necessitate the removal of the solar panels.
To prevent all of these problems, make sure your contractor is aware of your concerns. They’ll be able to show you a plan that proves the installation would have no adverse effects on water runoff.
6. What about nature’s other surprises?
Dealing with severe weather, such as lightning storms, hurricanes, hail, and other natural disasters, is an essential part of sustaining the solar power system. Some solar power equipment may be damaged as a result of these events. While some insurance policies will cover these events, it is something to think about, especially if you live in an area where this type of weather is normal.
7. How do you connect to the grid?
In addition, the form and shape of your roof must take into account how your solar power system will be connected to the grid. There are many items to consider when connecting with a local utility.
8. Did you shop around?
Make sure you’ve done your research before signing any deal with a contractor. Picking the first contractor you come across can appear to be a simple and quick way to begin saving money right away. However, this isn’t always the case! If you’re serious about having solar panels installed on your roof, shop around and get quotes from various contractors. Make sure these companies are reputable and have satisfied customers by doing some research on them.
9. Do you trust your contractor?
Solar power installation is both a home improvement and an electrical operation. This is why you should double-check their credentials before starting your search for the right contractor. Inquiring whether or not the Australian Board qualifies them, for example, is a perfect way to start.
10. Did you pick the cheapest options?
Solar panels that are less costly are rarely better solar panels. Although the cost of solar panels has fallen dramatically over the last decade, investing in cheap models or brands will leave you in the dark. Solar panels that are less expensive or low-end are often made to make them less durable. When solar panels are less robust, it lowers the value of your investment and reduces the amount of money you will save in the future. The frightening part is that these lower-quality panels can be hazardous at times, posing a health hazard. The last thing you want is for low-quality solar panels to spark a fire in your home.
11. What about warranties?
Warranties are an important way to ensure that your solar panels and other associated equipment are protected. When something goes wrong with your solar panels, a warranty means holding the manufacturer responsible without additional costs. Some incentive programs (available in various states) often require that a warranty cover the solar equipment.
12. Do you have the right insurance?
It would help if you thought about getting the right insurance to protect yourself and any harm to your home caused by the installation. Many issues can arise during installing your solar panels that you might not be aware of until they occur. In addition, several building codes, rebate provisions, legal rules, and certifications require insurance before work can begin. Since these rules and regulations differ by state, it is critical to contact the appropriate resources for your state before starting your project.
13. Did you take advantage of rebates?
The cost of installing a solar panel system in your home will range from $10,000 to $30,000. The good news is that several states, counties, and solar companies in the US provide rebates for solar panel installation on your roof. Tell the contractor what choices they have before the project starts, and if they don’t have much, they should be aware of state and city rebates.
14. Can you DIY?
It’s better to leave solar panel installation to the professionals. There’s no way around it. If you aren’t well trained in the installation process, a lot of things can go wrong. Here are some examples:
Problems with Wiring:
You can produce electricity shocks that are dangerous to you and those around you if you set it up incorrectly. Any electrical work should always be done with the help of an electrician.
Solar Panels on a Leaky Roof:
For installing solar panels, you will need to create some holes in the roof.
You can damage your roof and cause leaks if these holes are not properly made and sealed.
Safety and Code Compliance:
Many solar panel warranties stipulate that the panels be installed by a licensed professional. These warranties are null and void if you mount the equipment yourself. You will not be compensated if any damage is caused during installation or if there is an issue with how the panels were manufactured.
Besides that, if you are familiar with construction permits and other applicable rules and regulations, they can be difficult to obey. Since the project should be refused, all documentation must be completed correctly.
15. Don’t forget about maintenance
It’s all about establishing proper maintenance procedures to keep your solar panels working and your roof in good shape. It’s a good idea to find out what those maintenance procedures are from your contractor before the installation begins. If you can’t keep up with those maintenance needs, your equipment isn’t likely to last as long as you’d want.
Read MoreHow Much Does Solar Power Installation Cost? A Look Into Average Prices for Solar Panels
What Is the Installation Cost of Solar Panels?
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
After federal tax incentives, the average solar power installation costs in Australia is about $12,000. A smaller system can be installed for about $5,000 on the low end, while a Tier 1 solar panel system can cost $40,000 or more on the high end.
Aside from the cost of the panels, there are other costs associated with an installation project. The panels account for just around a quarter of the total installation costs. The additional costs are made up of labor, maintenance costs, and extra equipment such as inverters. Solar energy companies set up the panels, maintain them and guarantee both the panels and their work.
These extra programs aren’t always free, but they’re always well worth it. A few other factors influence the cost of solar panel installation. These extra programs aren’t always free, but they’re often well worth it. A few other factors influence the cost of solar panel installation.
Several factors influence the price of solar PV systems: efficiency, brand, scale, place, and others may all increase the cost of solar panels and systems. Solar PV systems in Australia, on the other hand, usually cost between $3,000 and $10,000, with government schemes and rebates lowering the cost.
Solar panels have become significantly less expensive as solar energy technology has advanced.
Solar panels have become considerably less expensive in recent years due to advances in solar energy technology.
The table below shows the average solar power installation costs, the amount of roof space they need, the average power bill savings, and the savings you can expect after 20 years.
3kW | 4kW | 5kW | 6kW | 7kW | 10kW | |
All | $4020 | $4650 | $5090 | $5700 | $6700 | $9180 |
Adelaide, SA | $3,630 | $4,190 | $4,440 | $4,560 | $6,010 | $8,160 |
Brisbane, QLD | $3,830 | $4,280 | $4,720 | $5,160 | $6,470 | $9,350 |
Canberra, ACT | $3,770 | $4,700 | $5,040 | $5,780 | $6,550 | $8,990 |
Darwin, NT | $5,870 | $7,160 | $8,120 | $9,330 | $10,540 | $12,140 |
Hobart,TAS | $4,960 | $5,600 | $5,990 | $6,870 | $7,330 | $11,210 |
Melbourne, VIC | $3,930 | $4,290 | $4,620 | $4,920 | $5,680 | $8,180 |
Sydney, NSW | $3,340 | $3,830 | $4,240 | $4,880 | $5,780 | $7,450 |
Perth, WA | $2,850 | $3,170 | $3,520 | $4,070 | $5,230 | $7,990 |
There are three significant components of a rooftop solar power system such as:
- Solar panels
- Panel mounting system
- Solar inverter
- Batteries are also increasingly common.
Factors That Influence Solar Power Installation Costs
- your property location
- the size of the solar panel system
- connected off-grid
- solar rebates
- orientation of property
- the installation company
Solar panel rebates and grants from the Australian government
Despite the interest in solar panels, the Australian government has started to scale back its efforts to encourage people to turn to solar energy. While government-subsidized solar PV is still available in some states, there are fewer rebates now than there were five years ago.
Read MoreTips for Solar Inverter Installation and Maintenance
Solar inverter installation converts the electricity produced by your solar panels into electricity that can be used by your home’s plugs to power your TV and other weird devices. Solar panels cannot generate AC power without the assistance of a solar inverter.
It’s time to mount your inverter after you’ve selected the one that best suits your needs and your setup. Some inverters, such as microinverters, are normally pre-installed on the screen, so you don’t have to worry about it. The other styles, on the other hand, should be placed away from direct sunlight. You’ll also need to find a place with adequate ventilation.
They should also be kept away from any moisture in the location you choose. Make sure your inverter has enough clearance on all sides to allow for proper (and necessary) air circulation. You can put it anywhere, indoors or out, as long as all of the conditions are met.
- Before installing the inverter, make sure it hasn’t been damaged during the installation process.
- Please make sure that it will not be disturbed by any electrical and electronic equipment installed near.
- Please cover each solar panel with opaque materials or switch off the DC side breaker before electrical connections. When solar panels are exposed to the sun, dangerous voltages are generated.
- Only professionals can complete the installation and service.
- A solar PV system’s wires and cables must be closely linked to ensure that no electricity leaks. Their specifications must be suitable.
- The installation of all-electric appliances must follow local or national standards.
- To link your inverter to the national grid, you must first obtain approval from your local power bureau and then hire professionals to complete the connection.
- If your inverter needs to be fixed, you must first disconnect the inverter from the national grid, then disconnect the DC side electricity connection.
- Please fix after waiting at least 5 minutes for all inner components to release power.
- Any issue that affects the inverter’s safety functions must be resolved fully before the inverter is rebooted.
- Avoid touching any circuits.
- Follow static electricity safety guidelines and use static electricity-proof protectors.
- Please pay attention to the product’s warning and follow them.
- You can conduct a thorough inspection of the system to ensure that it is not damaged or dangerous before using it.
- Ensure that your inverter isn’t too hot, dusty, or wet.
Solar Inverter Installation And Maintenance Tips:
- Keep solar panels out of the shade because they produce less energy when they aren’t exposed to any sunlight.
- Make sure the solar panels are working and that the inverters are blinking green lights. If they aren’t blinking, you’re wasting money because your energy use isn’t being compensated.
- To improve solar panel maintenance, keep track of daily performance. It’s critical to record how much energy was produced at a regular time each day, with careful attention paid to dates when the weather was particularly cloudy. Any of the outcomes would be uncertain. (Your solar panel manufacturer should be able to provide you with the best monitoring system).
- Monitoring systems allow you to see how much CO2 you are emitting into the atmosphere and how much you are helping the environment.
- They will also assist you in determining how much the feed-in tariff scheme will profit you.
- When you’re at home, a wall-mounted display will show you details about your solar panels’ maintenance.
- If you don’t have time to clean your solar panels, you can install sprinkler-like automated cleaners or make appointments with solar panel cleaning companies.
- Solar panels, on the other hand, do not have any moving parts that might rust or break down, so solar power maintenance might not be necessary.
What Australian Standards apply to the installation of solar panel systems?
This article contains all the important guidelines for an Australian standard solar panel installation. The following Australian Standards must be met for any installation carried out by an approved installer:
- AS/NZS 5033 Photovoltaic (PV) Array Installation
- Electrical Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000)
- Lightning Protection (AS 1768)
- Wind Loads (AS/NZS 1170.2)
Australian Standard Solar Panel Installation Guide
- AS4777 Grid Connections of Energy Systems via Inverters
AS 4509 Stand-alone power systems
- Part 1 Safety requirements
- Part 2 Design guidelines
- Part 3 Installation and maintenance
- AS 4086 Secondary batteries for SPS
- Part 2 Installation and maintenance
- Solar panels must meet the requirements of IEC61730 Class A, as well as IEC61215 or IEC61646.
- Grid-connected inverters must meet the requirements of AS4777, AS3100, or the IEC equivalent and have a valid Certificate of Suitability from a state regulator.
Many of these standards apply to other state-based legislation, laws, and standards but not limited to are:
- The Australian Consumer Law is incorporated into the Competition and Consumer Act of 2010, introduced in Australia.
- Each state and territory has its own set of work, health, and safety laws.
- Registration standards for building contractors in general
- In general, electrical tradesperson licensing requirements
- The Home Warranty Insurance Act
Guidelines set out by the Clean Energy Council must also be followed. The Clean Energy Council’s Installation Guidelines for Accredited Installers and Supervisors require installers to install the device. These guidelines are revised regularly to reflect current best practices.
In addition, only approved products should be used. All solar installers who are certified must use products that meet Australian Standards.
The Clean Energy Council has compiled a list of approved products that meet these requirements, including solar PV modules (panels) and grid-connect inverters. Installers must use Clean Energy Council-approved and listed equipment to apply for government incentives for solar PV systems.
Electrical work
A licensed electrician must install the system to produce small-scale technology certificates. Assume that the electrical wiring does not have an alternating current of 50 volts or a direct current of 120 volts. A person with appropriate training, experience, and qualifications must be installed to conduct the work in this case.
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) install and supervise guidelines for certified installers must be followed (in particular, section six). The CEC certified installer must either perform the installation directly or supervise the work of others and physically attend the job site for job set-up, mid-installation inspections, and testing and commissioning).
Installation attendance
You must be able to demonstrate that you attended the installation at the address specified on the mandatory written statements and the small-scale technology certificate assignment form as a CEC certified installer of a small-scale renewable energy system.
A written declaration from the device owner or appointed representative is required to prove your attendance at the installation. If the system owner gets to appoint a representative, the written document should clarify the relationship between the owner and their representatives, such as a tenant, relative, or neighbor.
The written statement can also be provided by a builder or property developer, as long as they are not also working as the Clean Energy Council installer.
Under section six of the Clean Energy Council install and supervise guidelines for certified installers, the agency can request additional details to prove you were on-site. If additional information is not provided to confirm that the device meets scheme eligibility requirements, claims for small-scale technology certificates can be failed.
Although insignificant, cooling airflow beneath your solar panels aids in the reduction of solar panel temperature, which improves the solar panel’s electricity production performance. Avoiding the buildup of leaf litter beneath your solar array, which may serve as a nest for rodents, should also be considered.
Australian solar panel installation In regards to installing systems, a quality solar system company will:
- Ensure that your mounting device would not adversely affect the waterproofing of your roof;
- Make sure your solar panel frames and mounting system are earthed.
- Ensure that your mounting system is installed according to the manufacturer’s directions, that it is compatible with your roof structure, and that it does not compromise your building’s certification;
- Ensure that the mounting system is at least 500mm from all sides.
- Your system will be installed correctly if you use a reliable solar installation company and high-quality components.
Tips For Choosing The Best Solar Panels Installer In Australia
When selecting a solar panel installer in Australia, the most important factor is whether or not they are “Clean Energy Council Accredited.”
This is a prerequisite for the government to pay rebates to the individual installing the system. Perhaps more significantly, it implies that the installer has trained extensively in safely installing solar power systems.
Significant Tips For Solar Panel Installation Australia
Choose a local solar panel installer.
Our team cannot stress enough how essential it is to pick a solar panel installer in your area. You want a team that has been in your area for at least 5 years and offers ongoing service.
This is the most effective means of determining a solar panel installer in it for the long haul rather than making a quick buck and leaving you with problems. So join your local Facebook community and look for installers in your area. People are keen to show off their installs, and you can see the work in person.
Celebrity representation
If a company pays a celebrity to advertise their products, you can bet your bottom dollar that your solar panel installation will be subcontracted out. Anyone who has completed a 5-day course and wants to make money can install this. They may not be the best person for the job because they have no vested interest in the company and want to get the job done to move on to the next.
The biggest is not always the best
The size of the solar installer does not necessarily imply that it would be better for you as a customer. Merely because they have an attractive website and a call center does not mean that you will receive better service. Simply put, it means they have a bigger marketing budget to drown out the competitors.
Three quotes from the same people
When choosing an installer, many people will take the safe route and click to get three quotes from three “different” providers that are all “recommended.” This is the simplest way to fill the website’s pockets. They have a vested interest in you choosing one of these providers, to put it simply. As a result, please take the time to do your homework. It’s not always as easy as clicking one thing and getting three quotes.
Consider your property
It would be best if you were realistic about returning to your solar panel system once installed in your house. Customers’ most common concern is that their solar system does not work as promised by the sales team!
Is your house in the shade during the day, or do trees block the afternoon sun? The orientation of your roof, as well as the number of directions your solar panels can face (if they’re split around two or more faces on the roof, they’ll fight each other in the strings and not produce nearly enough return for you), can all play a role.
Quality product
Did you know that many solar panel systems are replaced after just three to four years in Australia? We’re almost sure you were unaware of that interesting reality. If you choose the cheapest option, you can get exactly what you pay for.
Choose a brand whose panels come with a 25-year warranty and a written performance guarantee. It should also come with a minimum 10-year warranty on the solar panels.
Your solar inverter should come with at least a 5-year warranty, but if you can find one with a 10-year warranty, that’s even better.
Often double-check the product’s reliability, warranty, hardware, design, and installation.
Compatibility of your solar system
It’s always a good idea to future-proof your solar panel system by doing some future planning. Solar batteries, such as those used in the Tesla device, are costly and may be out of your current budget; however, make sure your installation enables you to add batteries later.
The great thing about technology is that it is constantly becoming more affordable. So, if you do your research and have your solar panel installer design a battery-compatible system, you’ll be in the driver’s seat when the time comes to add batteries.
Get your switchboard ready for solar
When having solar installed, you can encounter issues on the day of panel installation if your existing switchboard is not up to speed. This means you’ll have to take another day off work, and you won’t be able to use your solar panels to save money until it’s fixed. We recommend having your switchboard inspected before paying your deposit so you can be sure everything will go smoothly on installation day, and you can start saving straight away.
Read MoreSolar Panel Installation: A Five-Step Guide To Installing Solar Panels
Solar has already been installed in millions of Australian homes, and many more are considering it. If you’re thinking about going solar, you’re probably curious about what happens during a solar panel installation or even how to do it yourself. Before you mount solar panels, you should be aware of five essential steps. A solar panel installation guide will help you sign your solar contract and determine whether or not the solar panels on your roof will power your house. For the standard solar panel installation guide, Energenic has outlined a basic five-step procedure.
Solar panel installation guide: five main steps
However, scientists agree that human activity has largely destroyed the environment. This is why many governments are mandating renewable technology, and that’s why many people are opting to install solar panels to make their homes more environmentally friendly. Even if you’re not doing it to help heal the ozone layer, the fact that you can become energy-independent and even profit from selling electricity back to the grid can be enough to plunge you.
There are five significant steps to a solar installation that your chosen solar company will generally follow:
- Engineering site visit
- Permits and documentation
- Ordering equipment
- Solar panel installation
- Approval and interconnection
1: Engineering site visit:
Following the signing of your solar panel installation contract, an engineer will visit your home, office, factory, or shop to evaluate the electrical condition of your property and ensure that all is in working order with your new energy system. This engineer will typically work directly for your installer and will be a contracted independent provider.
The engineer will assess the condition of your roof during the visit to ensure that it is structurally sound. They’ll even check your electrical panel, which is the grey box in your basement, to see if it needs to be changed. If an installer tells you that your electrical panel needs to be upgraded, it means that your new solar panels will need more amps of current, and your electrical box’s ampere capacity will need to be improved.
This engineer visit is distinct from a general site visit, which occurs before any contract is signed and involves an installer evaluating the property to determine device size, roof type, roof angle, shading, and other factors. Additionally, although an engineer can usually visit, the installer will take photographs of the property and take roof measurements in some cases.
2: Permits and documents:
Installing solar panels, like any major financial decision, entails a significant amount of paperwork. While the installer does the majority of the paperwork, it’s still a good idea to know what’s going on behind the scenes of your solar installation. State and federal solar incentives, such as the federal ITC, local solar programs, clean energy financing initiatives like PACE, government rebates, and solar renewable energy certificates, are only a few of the items you’ll be applying for (SRECs).
You’ll need to fill out other paperwork, such as construction permits, in addition to applying for benefits. These permits are exclusive to your place. Your installer will be familiar with the restrictions and requirements of the states in which they work and will assist you in determining which permits you will need – in certain situations, the installer will complete this paperwork for you.
3: Ordering equipment:
Your installer will be able to place an equipment order through their primary distributor now that you’ve finished the required paperwork. If you’re looking for equipment suggestions, here are a few items to think about.
Solar panels and inverters are the two most essential components to consider for your device. The main requirement most homeowners use to compare brands is durability, efficiency, and aesthetics.
Spend some time researching microinverters vs. string inverters vs. power optimizers, as well as the best-rated solar panels on the market, to ensure you’ve chosen the right equipment for your system.
Considering your equipment choices will make you feel more prepared for the purchasing and delivery stages of the installation process.
Your property is added to your installer’s queue until the equipment ordering process is completed. Your panels and inverters will most likely arrive on the day of your installation, which can happen once your paperwork is approved (typically within one to two months).
4: Solar installation:
Every solar homeowner is looking forward to the actual installation. Your solar installer will begin by planning your roof and inspecting the shingles or tiles for proper installation. Then they run electrical wiring to your electrical panel and the rest of your power grid.
They can mount racking to protect your panels after the electrical wiring is completed. The panels are mounted to the racking until it has been level and secured. Finally, the inverter(s) are connected to the panels to convert direct current (DC) energy into alternating current (AC) energy, which is used in homes and on the grid.
The installation time can vary between one and three days, depending on the size of the installing system.
5: Approval and interconnection:
A representative from your town government will need to inspect and approve your solar panels before you can link them to the electric grid. The representative will essentially double-check your installer’s work during this inspection. He’ll double-check that the electrical wiring was done correctly, that the mounting was securely attached, and that the overall installation complies with standard electrical and roof setback codes.
You’ll be ready for official grid interconnection after this local inspection. A representative from the electric company will come to complete a final evaluation of the solar panel system. You should expect to wait two weeks to a month for the town and utility approvals, as well as for the interconnection to be finished.
Read MoreWhat is the average cost of installing residential solar panels on a house in Australia and Are They Worth It?
Average Cost of Installing Residential Solar Panels
The size of your home and how much energy you use will determine which solar panel system is best for you. The cost of installing residential solar panels is $4,633 on average. The entire range, which includes 1.5kWh – 6kWh Solar systems, is more like $2,909 and $5,810. The consistency of the system components you use, such as the brands of solar panels and inverters, has a big impact on the cost and rebates.
Cost of getting solar panel per kWh
The cost per kWh of installing solar panel systems in Australia is the lowest in the world, due to government incentives. The cost per kWh to install the most common system, a 5kWh solar system with an average price of $5,200, is $1,040. They are typically available at a low cost of $910 per kWh, as some installers market solar systems at very low costs.
How much you can save a year on your power bills?
Solar power lowers your power bill by about $400 a year per kW of solar in NSW, so if you install an 8kW solar panel, you can save up to $3,400 a year, or $850 per quarter.
You can almost completely replace your power consumption with solar power if you also add a solar battery, in which case we can size your solar system based on your average daily power use (24 hours) rather than the amount of power you use during the day.
The smallest solar system we typically install is a 5kW system, which produces about 20kWh per day and can save you up to $500 per quarter if you use all of the solar power produced. As a result, if you want to save money, we suggest that you have a quarterly power bill of at least $400-$500. As mentioned earlier, if you intend on installing battery storage, instead of using at least 32 kWh during the day for an 8kW system, you just need to use 32 kWh on a regular (24-hour) day. Solar batteries allow you to store excess solar energy and use it as required later in the evening.
If your energy cost is more than $500 a quarter, a solar power system would almost definitely be beneficial; in general, the higher the electricity bill, the more money you will save, and therefore the more a solar power system will be worth.
So is solar power worth it in Australia?
Households are rushing to install solar power to reduce their power bills as electricity prices continue to rise across Australia, particularly now that solar panel prices in Australia are at an all-time low.
Solar panels of good quality are now so inexpensive that you can get a return on your investment in as little as 3-5 years. Let’s break down these figures to see how much a solar power system would cost you and if solar power is right for your home.
If you have the budget for a good quality system from a reputable installer, solar power is worth it. When properly sized, you can see a return on your investment in as little as 3 to 5 years and have a trouble-free investment that produces renewable energy for decades – up to 25 years in the case of the better brands. Over the life of the system, a 5kW system can save you up to $50,000 on your power bills, money that is taken directly from the coal industry’s books.
Solar storage is now available, allowing homeowners to operate their homes almost entirely on solar energy.
As households seek to increase their energy independence and maximize the use of solar power in the home, solar and storage systems are rapidly becoming the norm. From the best manufacturers to the best high-efficiency modules on the market from companies like LG Solar, Solaray provides highly favorable pricing on all of the top brand names.
Millions of Australian households now have solar power. Solar power can be as cheap as 5 cents per kWh when properly sized. If you compare that to what you’re paying, it’s clear that solar power is a good investment for most Australian households.
Read MoreEnvironmental benefits of domestic solar power systems
Every country in this world depends on fossil fuels to meet the energy requirements. However, countries are switching to non-polluting renewable energy sources to comply with the Kyoto Protocol’s mandate to minimize CO2 and other gaseous emissions. A study of the environmental protection provided by the two most commonly used renewable energy systems, namely the solar water heating system, and solar space heating system, presents the emissions generated by the burning of fossil fuels.
The study also shows that by using solar energy, considerable amounts of greenhouse-polluting gasses are avoided. For the case of a domestic water heating system, the saving, compared to a conventional system, is about 80% with electricity or Diesel backup and is about 75% with both electricity and Diesel backup. In space heating and hot water system, it saves about 40%.
Solar water heating systems often have much shorter payback times than solar space heating systems, owing to the higher solar contribution. It can, therefore, be concluded that domestic solar power systems offer significant protection to the environment and should be used to achieve a sustainable future.
Domestic Solar Power Systems Benefits
Reduces Air Pollution
Fossil fuels create a lot of pollutants. If you’ve ever visited the USA, China, or anyplace whose geography consists of mountains and valleys, you’ve seen what dirty air looks like.
Smog, or polluted air, is harmful to the atmosphere and our health. When pollutants become trapped in the air, everything just looks worse.
Solar panels assist in the reduction of air pollution. Your solar panels produce renewable energy that does not cause pollution.
Helps Fight Climate Change
The continual release of pollutants and CO2 into the atmosphere is harmful to our Earth and Ozone the protected layer. It makes it more difficult for the environment to keep the air clean. When the amount of carbon in the atmosphere rises, so will our retention heat from the sun. Different climates will continue to be influenced by shifting air conditions, causing some to warm and others to cool, and weather patterns to become more sudden and unpredictable everywhere.
One of the ways we will continue to minimize the impact of climate change is to use solar energy. We can all help to slow climate change by reducing CO2 emissions and releasing fewer toxins into the air.
Less Negative Impact on the Environment
When compared to other energy sources, using solar energy for your home is eco-friendly. Greenhouse emissions, water contamination, and other hazardous wastes are all caused by traditional power sources. Residential solar panels are becoming more common as people become more aware of these environmental contaminants. Installing solar panels to power and make your home energy efficient is a smart idea if you care about the environment and want to reduce your carbon footprint.
Reliable Energy Source
Imagine not having to rely on conventional power sources for your energy if you start using solar power at home. Solar panels will be installed on your roof to produce electricity using the sun’s energy. The availability of nonrenewable energy sources is restricted, which explains the high cost of electricity production. On the other side, you can have an infinite and reliable electricity source as long as the sun remains and even work after when the sun sets due to charged batteries, so you won’t have to think about energy bills or power outages. Renewable energy is not only healthier for the environment; it also assures you that your power supply will never run out.
Increased Home Value
When determining whether or not to invest in residential solar panels, you should think more than just saving thousands of dollars per year. Installing solar panels increases the value of your house, which is useful if you intend to sell it in the future. Your aim as a homeowner is to increase the value of your home through repairs and improvements. If you’re going to make adjustments to your building. Solar panels for home use are an excellent investment that you should prioritize.
Conclusion
When you consider the advantages of using solar energy for your house, you can see why solar panels are a good investment. Solar power systems are available for all types of homes. It’s critical to find a dependable and trustworthy contractor to manage the installation and maintenance of your solar power system if you want to get the most out of your investment.
Read MoreHow Do Electric Solar Systems Work With Grid Connection?
Before connecting a home electric solar system to the electric grid, research and determine the equipment required, as well as the specifications and agreements of your power provider.
While renewable energy systems can power residences and small businesses without a connection to the electricity grid, many people prefer the benefits of grid connection.
A grid-connected system allows you to power your home or small business with renewable energy when the sun is shining, the water is flowing, or the wind is blowing (daily and seasonally). Any additional power that generates is returned to the grid. When renewable resources are unavailable, electricity from the grid meets your needs, saving you money on energy storage batteries.
When connecting your home energy system to the electric grid, there are a few things to consider:
- To connect your system to the grid, you’ll need the equipment.
- Your power provider’s grid-connection requirements
- Codes and requirements set out by the state and local governments
Grid connect solar power
A grid connect system connects to the local utility grid so that when your solar panels generate more solar electricity than your home uses, the excess is fed back into the grid. When you have a grid-connected solar power system, the energy grid supplies the balance of what your solar panels generate and what your house requires. So, if your house’s electrical loads consume 20 amps and your solar power generates just 12 amps, you’d be drawing 8 amps from the grid. The grid provides all of your energy needs at night because a grid-connected device does not store power that generates during the day.
How do Electric Solar Systems work with Grid connection?
The supply of electricity will flow both from the grid to which the user’s home is connected and from the user’s home to the grid in this electric system. This feature makes the on-grid solar system simultaneously cost-effective and highly useful. The solar panels on the user’s house are connected to the grid. The solar panels convert sunlight into DC (Direct Current) electricity (DC). After that, the current is sent to an inverter. The DC is then converted to Alternating Current (AC) by the solar inverter, which then powers the electrical items. This electricity is then transmitted to the grid, where it is used daily. Since all of the power generated is typically much more than a home needs or can handle, the grid-tied inverter often controls the amount and voltage of electricity fed to the household. The net meter is an important feature. It’s a device that keeps track of how much energy is supplied to the grid and how much energy is consumed. The unpaid balance is reported at the end of each month, and the consumer is provided with a bill. The primary electricity distribution panel then distributes this ‘converted’ power supply to homes.
Benefits of on-grid solar
- No electricity bills — Even though the solar power system is connected to the grid, the user just pays for the excess electricity he uses. The consumer’s monthly bill determines whether the consumer has any payments to make. However, if the user consumes less energy, the surplus is pumped back into the grid.
- Low-maintenance — The on-grid solar power system has the fewest parts and is the easiest to install. Elimination of batteries makes maintenance easier.
- Passive income — With a connection to the grid, the consumer can charge for the excess electricity he has generated. It not only reduces your electricity bills but also helps you to take advantage of cost savings associated with the excess electricity produced.
- On-grid solar systems —are the most cost-effective and easy to set up. These are ideal systems for households because the extra power transmitted to the grid easily covers the expense of the system.
TipTalk
Some electricity providers now allow you to carry over the balance of any net extra electricity your system produces from month to month, which may be helpful if the resource you use to produce electricity is seasonal. If you generate more energy than you consume at the end of the year, you must give the excess to the power provider.
Read MoreEveryday Uses for Solar Energy Panels to Enjoy a More Efficient Home
The Sun is the biggest star and the source of all life on Earth; the natural solar energy it produces is useful to us in several ways.
The sun provides two forms of energy: light and heat, which we can use for a number of purposes, including photosynthesis in plants, electricity generation with photovoltaic (PV) cells, and heating water and food. So, what are some of the solar energy applications? To make our homes more energy-efficient, let’s look at four common uses and benefits of sunlight in our daily lives.
1: Solar Water Heating
Solar energy can also be used in water heating systems. The majority of solar water heating systems generate hot water that is used inside the home. Solar water heaters absorb the sun’s heat and send it to the water tank through a rooftop cell. According to the researchers, solar water heaters usually pay back within five to ten years. Swimming pool heating is another use of solar energy, especially in Australia. The water is circulated to a collector and then drained back into the pool after being heated by sunlight. Solar pool heating is the most cost-effective use of solar energy in many climates, as per the research, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $4,000 and a payback period of 1.5 to 7 years.
Solar space heating systems are commonly used to power radiant floors or to heat a home in combination with a Forced Hot Air (FHA) system. By considering the placement of windows and the materials used in the building, passive solar home design can also heat buildings in the winter.
2: Solar Cookers
Solar ovens are becoming increasingly popular home appliances, whether you build your own or buy pre-assembled. A solar oven is a slow cooker, similar to an electronic crockpot. A solar oven heats food to relatively low temperatures over several hours using angled reflectors that direct solar energy into a special chamber (8 to 10, as mentioned in the recipe). The fuel source is once again available for free in the form of sunlight.
3: Hot Air Solar Systems
There are also full-house heating systems that move heat around the house using hot air rather than water or another liquid. These systems operate by collecting and circulating hot air from the sun beating down on a roof or an exposed wall in the house, offices, or industries. Clay roof tiles, for example, may have air channels built into them, allowing warmed air to circulate. Houses with hot air solar heating frequently have heat-absorbing roofs or siding surfaces. A powered rotating fan is used in many systems to distribute warm air. These systems are commonly designed to heat only a single room. This device can be thought of as a more advanced version of the old-fashioned sunroom, which was heated by the sun reflecting through large windows and heating a stone or ceramic tile floor.
4: Solar Ventilation
Solar ventilation solutions, such as solar attic fans, can help to cool your home during the summer, reducing the load on your HVAC system. If you are unable to install a solar PV system that will cover your entire home’s energy usage, this could be a viable alternative. The Solatube solar attic fan is an innovative product. Solar ventilation systems, which can preheat a building’s air in cold climates and reduce energy costs, are examples of commercial and industrial applications of solar process heat.
TipTalk:
The sun is a strong source of energy that can support our planet by providing us with renewable, reusable energy. This energy is free, does not pollute the environment, and, if used wisely, will help us become less reliant on more expensive and harmful sources of electricity.
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