Save on Solar Power and Heating

We can help you understand how to evaluate the solar offers and terminology surrounding this confusing technology marketplace

Save on Solar Power and Heating

Our aim is to make it as simple as possible for you to get the Smartest Solar Solution at a competitive price. We will explain the different advantages of the various Photovoltaic ( PV) and associated systems making it easier for you to come to an informed decision.


Read this now to cut through all this talk of REC's, PV Kw's, Feedback Tarrifs, etc. for a clear understanding of your requirements and potential costs and savings.
Do it now before the government decides to end the grant scheme that is saving you thousands!


Benefits of Installing and Using Solar Electricity in Homes and Businesses


Solar electricity, also known as photovoltaic (PV) power, has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its numerous advantages for both homes and businesses.
This comprehensive website aims to outline the main reasons for installing and using solar electricity, emphasizing its environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Environmental Benefits:


Renewable Energy:
Solar power is a clean and renewable source of energy, which reduces dependency on fossil fuels and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions.

Reduced Carbon Footprint:
By generating clean electricity, solar systems help combat climate change and reduce air pollution.

Conservation of Resources:
Solar energy utilizes sunlight, an abundant and inexhaustible resource, thereby conserving natural resources like coal, gas, and oil.

Economic Benefits:


Energy Cost Savings:
Installing solar panels can significantly reduce electricity bills, as solar energy is generated for free once the initial investment is recovered.

Financial Incentives:
Governments and utility companies often offer financial incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and net metering programs, making solar installations more financially feasible.

Increased Property Value:
Properties equipped with solar power systems tend to have higher values, providing a return on investment for homeowners and businesses.

Energy Independence: Grid Independence:
Solar electricity allows homes and businesses to become partially or completely independent from the traditional power grid, reducing the risk of power outages and grid failures.

Remote Access:
Solar energy enables access to electricity in remote areas where grid connections are not available, promoting sustainable development and improving quality of life.
Solar Panel
Job Creation and Economic Growth:

Employment Opportunities:
The solar industry has experienced significant growth, creating numerous jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research sectors.

Local Economic Stimulus:
Investing in solar power systems supports local businesses, contributes to the growth of the clean energy sector, and fosters economic development within communities.

Social Benefits:



Health and Safety:
Solar energy production does not produce harmful emissions or noise pollution, leading to improved air quality and a healthier living environment.
Energy Equality:
Widespread adoption of solar power can enhance energy access and affordability, bridging the energy gap and promoting social equity.

Conclusion:


Installing and utilizing solar electricity offers a wide range of benefits for both homes and businesses. By reducing environmental impact, lowering energy costs, providing energy independence, creating job opportunities, and promoting social equity.
Solar power proves to be a sustainable and economically viable solution. The growing adoption of solar electricity contributes to a greener future and a more resilient and equitable society.

Solar Panel

2.28kW System example

12 x 190 WattSolar Panels,2kWW Approved Grid Connected Solar Inverter. Must be Installed by an accredited electrician only.

Solar Panel

3.04kW System example

16 x 190 WattSolar Panels,3kWW Approved Grid Connected Solar Inverter. Must be Installed by an accredited electrician only.

Solar Panel

3.99kW System example

21 x 190 WattSolar Panels,4kWW Approved Grid Connected Solar Inverter. Must be Installed by an accredited electrician only.

Solar Panel

4.94kW System example

26 x 190 WattSolar Panels,5kWW Approved Grid Connected Solar Inverter. Must be Installed by an accredited electrician only.

Save on Solar Power Panels

We can help you understand how to evaluate the solar systems and terminology surrounding this confusing technology marketplace

Save on Solar Power Panels

There are several types of solar panels commonly used in residential and commercial applications.


Each Panel type has its own advantages based on factors such as efficiency, cost, and application.
The main types of solar panels are:


Monocrystalline Solar Panels:

Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Advantages: High Efficiency:
Monocrystalline solar panels have a higher efficiency rating compared to other types, meaning they can convert a greater percentage of sunlight into electricity.

Space Efficiency:
Monocrystalline panels require less space to generate the same amount of electricity as other types, making them suitable for installations with limited space.

Long Lifespan:
Monocrystalline panels have a long lifespan, typically lasting 25-30 years or more with proper maintenance.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels:

Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Advantages: Lower Cost:
Polycrystalline solar panels are generally more affordable compared to monocrystalline panels, making them a popular choice for those on a budget.

Good Performance in High Temperatures:
Polycrystalline panels perform well in high-temperature conditions, making them suitable for regions with hot climates.

Thin-Film Solar Panels:

Thin-Film Solar Panels
Advantages:Flexibility:
Thin-film solar panels are lightweight and flexible, allowing for easy installation on curved or irregular surfaces.
Low Light Performance:
Thin-film panels perform better in low-light conditions such as cloudy days or shaded areas, making them suitable for certain environments where direct sunlight is limited.
Cost-Effective:
Thin-film panels are generally less expensive to manufacture compared to crystalline panels, resulting in lower overall costs.

Bifacial Solar Panels:

Bifacial Solar Panels
Advantages: Increased Energy Yield:
Bifacial panels have the ability to capture sunlight from both the front and back sides, increasing their energy output and overall efficiency.
Versatility:
Bifacial panels can be installed in various orientations, including vertically and horizontally, allowing for more flexibility in design and installation.
It's important to note
that the choice of solar panel type depends on various factors, including budget, available space, efficiency requirements, and environmental conditions.
Consulting with a solar energy professional can help determine the most suitable type of panel for a specific installation.

SAVE ON SOLAR!

Solar Hot Water Products

Solar Hot Water

Manufactured to a quality & performance standard, most trusted water heaters are renowned around the world for their robust design and high solar energy efficiency ratings. Competitive supply and install prices, matched with some of the highest State & Federal Government rebates & incentives available, make installing a trusted solar water heater an obvious economical choice.

Thermosiphon Systems

Solar Hot Water Products

Roof mounted, close coupled thermo siphon solar hot water

Roof mounted, close coupled thermo siphon solar hot water systems have been designed specifically to provide energy efficient water heating for customers who enjoy the performance of a traditionally styled solar water heater. The high performance, slim line solar collectors are connected directly to the highly insulated roof mounted solar storage tank, freeing up valuable ground space around your home. Using trusted solar collectors and storage tanks, solar water heaters are designed and built to a performance & quality standard. With some of the highest Government rebates and incentives available, a trusted thermo siphon system is the obvious economical choice. Available in frost protected and hard water specific models, with both Gas, or Electrically boosted systems available, there is a solar water heater available to suit your needs.

Split Systems

Solar Hot Water Products

SPLIT solar hot water

‘SPLIT’ solar hot water systems have been designed specifically to provide both energy efficient water heating, without compromising the aesthetics of your home. The high performance, slim line solar collectors are fitted to your roof and the highly insulated storage tank is located either internally, or externally at ground level. Using trusted solar collectors and storage tanks, solar water heaters are designed and built to a performance & quality standard. With some of the highest Government rebates and incentives available, a trusted split system is the obvious economical choice. Available in frost protected and hard water specific models, with either Gas or Electrically boosted systems available, there is a solar water heater available to suit your needs.

Solar Panel Inverters main advantages and specifications

Solar panel inverters are an essential component of a solar power system as they convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity


There are several types of solar panel inverters, each with its own advantages and specifications that can be used in homes or businesses.


Some common Inverter types include:

String PV Inverters:

String PV Inverters
Advantages: String inverters are the most commonly used type of inverter due to their cost-effectiveness and simplicity. They are suitable for standard solar panel installations and are easy to install and maintain.

Specifications: String inverters are connected to multiple solar panels in series, forming strings. They have a single maximum power point tracker (MPPT) and are ideal for situations where panels receive similar sunlight conditions.

PV Micro Inverters:

PV Microinverters
Advantages: Microinverters are installed on each solar panel, allowing for independent power conversion. This means that the performance of each panel is optimized, even if one panel is shaded or performing below its capacity. Microinverters can increase overall system efficiency and provide detailed panel-level monitoring.

Specifications: Microinverters operate independently, converting DC to AC at each panel. They typically have multiple MPPTs and are more expensive than string inverters. However, the individual panel optimization can result in higher energy production.

PV Power Optimizers:

PV Power Optimizers
Advantages: Power optimizers are similar to microinverters in that they optimize the power output of individual panels. They provide panel-level monitoring and can mitigate the impact of shading or uneven panel performance.

Specifications:
Power optimizers are installed on each solar panel and work in conjunction with a central inverter. They perform DC-to-DC conversion, allowing for maximum power extraction from each panel. The central inverter converts the DC power to AC power.

Hybrid PV Inverters:

Hybrid PV Inverters
Advantages: Hybrid inverters are designed for solar power systems that incorporate energy storage, allowing for the integration of batteries. They can manage both solar power generation and energy storage, providing backup power during outages or optimizing self-consumption of solar energy.

Specifications: Hybrid inverters combine the functions of a solar inverter and a battery inverter. They can control the flow of electricity between the solar panels, battery storage, and the electrical grid.

Thermosiphon Systems

Gas boosted Hot Water Products

Gas boosted Hot Water

Your new solar water heater is designed to utilize two energy sources operating simultaneously to provide you with energy efficient hot water. Solar / Gas systems, maximize your solar savings by storing your solar heated water in an insulated, 200 or 300 litre, solar rated storage tank. This ‘pre heated’ water is then passed directly through a 5 or 6 Star rated Eternity series continuous flow gas water heater, which senses the incoming water temperature and adjusts the amount of gas used depending on how hot the incoming water is.

Thermosiphon Systems

Electrically boosted Hot Water Products

Electrically boosted Hot Water

Your new solar water heater is designed to utilize two energy sources operating simultaneously to provide you with energy efficient hot water. Solar 200 & 300 litre solar / electric systems maximize your solar savings by maintaining the temperature of the stored water through a combination of solar energy and electrical energy.

Solar Hot Water Products

Be smart, use only trusted brand solar water heaters.

  • THERMOSIPHON SYSTEMS
  • Thermosiphon – Gas boosted
  • The hotter the solar heated water – the less gas you use, ensuring you have never ending hot water 24 hours a day, 7 days week, at a cost that can be up to 80% lower than your current water heating bills.
  • Thermosiphon – Electrically boosted
  • The system is thermostatically controlled so it operates automatically to maximize energy efficiency, while ensuring you always have adequate hot water. This combination ensures that you have hot water whenever you need it, at a cost that can be up to 80% lower than your current water heating bills.

Solar Panel Grid-tied Inverters main advantages and specifications

Grid-tied inverters are commonly used in solar power systems for several reasons:

Grid-tied Inverters main advantages

Net Metering:

Grid-tied inverters allow solar power systems to be connected to the electrical grid. This enables homeowners and businesses to "sell" excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid, effectively reversing their electricity meter and offsetting their energy consumption at times when the solar panels are not producing enough electricity. This process is known as net metering and helps maximize the financial benefits of solar power installations.

Simplified Installation and Maintenance:

Grid-tied inverters are relatively straightforward to install and integrate into a solar power system. They do not require the use of batteries or complex energy storage systems, simplifying the installation process and reducing maintenance requirements. This makes grid-tied systems more cost-effective and easier to maintain compared to off-grid systems.

Grid Stability and Reliability:

By being connected to the electrical grid, grid-tied solar power systems can draw electricity from the grid when solar production is insufficient, ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply. This is particularly beneficial during periods of low sunlight or high energy demand.

Regulatory Compliance:

In many regions, grid-tied inverters are required to meet certain grid interconnection standards and regulations. These standards ensure the safety and reliability of the electrical grid by monitoring the flow of electricity between the solar power system and the grid.

Cost-effectiveness:

Grid-tied inverters are generally more cost-effective compared to off-grid inverters and battery storage systems. The absence of batteries reduces the upfront installation costs, making grid-tied systems more accessible and affordable for homeowners and businesses.

Environmental Benefits:

Grid-tied solar power systems with net metering contribute to overall grid stability and enable a higher penetration of renewable energy in the electricity grid. By feeding excess electricity back into the grid, these systems help reduce the reliance on fossil fuel-based power plants, reduce carbon emissions, and promote the transition to a clean and sustainable energy future.

In summary, grid-tied inverters are commonly used in solar power systems because they allow for net metering, simplify installation and maintenance, ensure grid stability and reliability, comply with regulatory standards, are cost-effective, and offer environmental benefits.

Split Systems

Gas boosted Hot Water Products

Solar water heaters

Solar water heaters are designed to utilize two energy sources operating simultaneously to provide you with energy efficient hot water. Solar / Gas systems, maximize your solar savings by storing your solar heated water in an insulated, 200, 300 or 450 litre, solar rated storage tank. This ‘pre heated’ water is then passed directly through a 5 or 6 Star rated Eternity series continuous flow gas water heater, which senses the incoming water temperature and adjusts the amount of gas used depending on how hot the incoming water is.

Split Systems

Electrically boosted Hot Water Products

Spilt system solar water heaters

Spilt system solar water heaters are designed to utilize two energy sources operating simultaneously to provide you with energy efficient hot water. Solar 300 & 450 litre solar / electric systems can maximize your solar savings by maintaining the temperature of the stored water through a combination of solar energy and electrical energy.

Solar Hot Water Products

Choose smart, use only trusted brand solar water heaters.

  • SPLIT SYSTEMS
  • Split Systems – Gas boosted
  • The hotter the solar heated water – the less gas you use, ensuring you have never ending hot water 24 hours a day, 7 days week, at a cost that can be up to 80% lower than your current water heating bills.
  • Split Systems – Electrically boosted
  • The system is thermostatically controlled so it operates automatically to maximize energy efficiency, while ensuring you always have adequate hot water. This combination ensures that you have hot water whenever you need it, at a cost that can be up to 80% lower than your current water heating bills.

Solar Panel powered Battery Storage systems and why to use them?

There are primarily two types of solar panel powered battery storage systems: on-grid and off-grid systems.

Solar Panel powered Battery Storage

Here's a breakdown of each type and why they are used:



On-Grid Systems:


On-grid battery storage systems are connected to the electrical grid. They work in conjunction with the utility grid and are designed to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use during times when solar production is low or non-existent, such as at night or during cloudy days.

The main reasons to use on-grid battery storage systems are:


Time-Of-Use Optimization:

By storing excess solar energy during periods of low electricity demand and using it during peak demand periods, homeowners and businesses can avoid higher electricity rates during peak hours and potentially save on their energy bills.

Backup Power:

During power outages, on-grid battery storage systems can provide a backup power supply, ensuring uninterrupted electricity for critical appliances or systems.

Off-Grid Systems:

Off-grid battery storage systems are designed to operate independently from the electrical grid. Off-Grid Systems They are commonly used in remote areas or locations where grid connection is not available or unreliable. The primary reasons to use off-grid battery storage systems are:

Energy Independence:

Off-grid systems allow homeowners or businesses to generate and store their own electricity, providing a self-sufficient and reliable power source even in the absence of grid infrastructure.

Remote Locations:

Off-grid battery storage systems are ideal for powering structures in remote areas, such as cabins, agricultural facilities, or telecommunication towers, where traditional grid connection is impractical or costly.

Environmental Impact:

In areas where grid electricity is generated from non-renewable sources, off-grid systems powered by solar panels can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions. It's important to note that both on-grid and off-grid battery storage systems require careful sizing and configuration to match the specific energy needs and usage patterns of homes or businesses.

Consulting with a professional solar installer can help determine the most suitable battery storage system for individual requirements and optimize its benefits.

Going Solar is the smart way to secure a sustainable future for your family and beat the rising cost of electricity.

Feed-in Tariffs Solar Electricity Government Rebates

Like you, the Australian Government is committed to a cleaner and greener future and they are supporting your efforts to 'go solar' with their Renewable Energy Target (RET) Scheme. For Australian home-owners, this scheme assists you in the following ways:

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES):

This is the Government's scheme that provides support for small, residential renewable energy systems such as solar electricity (PV) panels and solar hot water systems. The scheme allows owners of solar installations to create certificates that are eventually purchased by large energy retailers through a 'green' market. These large energy retailers are legally obligated to accumulate a certain amount of certificate per year to ensure a certain percentage of their energy generation is sourced from renewable energy..

Under this scheme the Government has created: Small Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) Solar Credits

Homeowners are eligible to create STCs if they install a solar electricity system (or solar hot water system) that generates renewable energy at their home.

Different solar electricity systems will – be eligible to create a different numbers of STCs. The bigger and more efficient the system, the more STCs can be -created.

STCs can be created with the Government regulator by the owner and sold -on the STC market, but typically the most practical way is for the home owner to assign the right to create their STCs to the Solar PV supplier or installer. This option is usually offered to you as an upfront discount on your system, which is a more attractive way to invest in solar.

Thee Solar Credit scheme as established by the Government for the purpose of providing homes, small businesses and other eligible premises an incentive for installing solar electricity systems.

State Link To Government Site Status of Scheme Max Size Rate Gross/Net As At VIC Click Here 25 c/kWh feed-in tariff commenced 1/11/11. For tariff details, please seek advice from your electricity retailer. 5 kW 25c per kWh Net SEPT 2011

Disclaimer:

This table of Feed-in Tariffs is a guide only and information may change at any time without notice. Please research Feed-in Tariffs relevant to you, by visiting the link HERE To find out more about Feed-in Tariffs please visit the Parliament of Australia's library reference:

Feed‐in Tariffs (FiT)

With a Solar Electricity system your home effectively becomes a mini solar power station. You generate your own electricity, and then sell it back to the power "grid" for use by your neighbours and other power users. The amount your power company pays you is known as a Feed-in Tariff. The state governments regulate the tariffs in their regions based on market conditions and established STC quotas.

A Feed-in Tariff will allow you to save evenn MORE on your electricity bills, and may significantly reduce your payback period. Feed-in Tariffs vary from state to state within Australia and may be paid on a Net or Gross basis;

Gross FiT: In this scheme ALL of the electricity generated from the renewable energy source is purchased from the customer by the power company. The customer buys back any electricity they require from the grid.

Net FiT: In this scheme only surplus electricity generated from the renewable energy source is purchased from the customer by the power company. Feed-in Tariffs may change at any time with little notice from the Government so please use the table below as a guideline only and check the relevant state government sites or the Clean Energy Council's site for the most current information.

To find out more about Feed-in Tariffs please visit IPART’s solar feed-in tariff price guide It's a free, independent government service.HERE To view the Clean Energy Council's table of State Feed-in Tariffs,please click HERE.

Comparisons of using Solar Panel off grid systems against Wind Turbines

In comparing off-grid solar panel systems with wind turbines, there are several factors to consider:

Solar Panel off grid systems against Wind Turbines

Energy Production:

Solar panels generate electricity directly from sunlight, while wind turbines generate electricity from wind. The availability of sunlight and wind resources in a specific location will impact the energy production of each system. Solar panels are most effective in areas with ample sunlight, while wind turbines require consistent wind speeds to generate electricity efficiently.

Installation and Space Requirements:

Solar panels are typically easier to install compared to wind turbines, which require more complex infrastructure and taller structures. Solar panels can be mounted on rooftops or ground-mounted, depending on available space. Wind turbines, on the other hand, require a larger area and may have zoning restrictions or noise considerations.

Maintenance:

Solar panels generally require less maintenance compared to wind turbines. Solar panels have no moving parts, reducing the risk of mechanical failure, while wind turbines have rotating blades and mechanical components that may require regular servicing and maintenance.

Cost:

The initial investment cost for solar panels is generally lower compared to wind turbines. Solar panels have become more affordable in recent years, while wind turbines are still relatively expensive, especially for smaller-scale applications. However, the cost-effectiveness of each system depends on factors such as energy requirements, available resources, and local incentives or rebates.

Environmental Impact:

Both solar panels and wind turbines are considered environmentally friendly compared to conventional energy sources. Solar panels have no emissions during operation, while wind turbines produce clean energy from wind. However, wind turbines may have a visual impact and can pose challenges for bird migration patterns, whereas solar panels have a smaller visual footprint.

Energy Storage:

Both solar panel systems and wind turbines can be combined with energy storage systems, such as batteries, to store excess energy for use during periods of low generation. This allows for a more consistent and reliable power supply in off-grid scenarios.

Ultimately, the choice between solar panel off-grid systems and wind turbines depends on various factors, including available resources, location-specific conditions, energy requirements, budget, and environmental considerations. It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation of these factors to determine the most suitable renewable energy solution for a specific situation.