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Residential Solar Roofing Installation Services
Residential Solar Roofing Installation Services Aurora CO can help homeowners reduce their utility bills and increase the value of their property. This technology is becoming more widely available and is more cost-effective than traditional solar panels. A solar roof also provides a better aesthetic appeal for your home. It also reduces your carbon footprint by reducing your reliance on fossil fuels.
Integrated solar roofs are composed of solar shingles and panels that are integrated into the roofing system. They look like roof tiles and protect your home from the elements. They are waterproof and have photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight to generate electricity for your home. Integrated solar roofing systems are installed by roofing contractors with specialized knowledge and equipment.
While some companies produce solid panels that look like shingles, others have developed semi-rigid designs that contain silicon solar cells and are sized like traditional shingles. Other systems are larger and act as autonomous roofing systems. Integra is another company that offers building-integrated photovoltaic panels.
Residential solar roofing can increase a home’s value when it is sold. It increases the buyer’s return on investment (ROI). Integrated solar roof systems will increase the value of a home and can help homeowners save money. They can also help homeowners qualify for tax deductions. A good installer will know how to apply for these benefits and educate potential customers on their tax benefits.
A solar roof should be integrated with battery backup to store excess power. This is accomplished by installing a micro-inverter, such as the Enphase IQ8/Ensemble, which allows PV power to be used even when there is a power outage.
The integration of solar panels with steel roofing tiles is the most effective way to install a solar roof. This type of roof consists of solar glass tiles and steel roofing tiles that absorb the sun’s light and convert it into electrical energy. Besides the energy generated, a solar roof also adds longevity and resistance to corrosion. As a result, it provides a 25-year warranty and can be a good investment for your home.
This innovative solution makes solar roof installation easy and allows homeowners to save money on construction. Additionally, it provides a low-profile, differentiated appearance. This system is preferred by new home construction, commercial properties, and even government institutions.
Installing a residential solar roof is an excellent way to reduce your utility bill. You can also supplement your current power source with solar energy from your roof. Installing solar shingles from a certified roofing company can help you save money on utility bills. And they come with an industry-leading warranty.
However, company executives stress that they are separate companies. The company offers a 50-year warranty. The cost for the installation is the same as a new roof with a separate rack-mount solar system.
If you’re looking for a reliable high-tech roofing solution, the Solar system is a great choice. With its top-quality look, this system is sure to add value to your home while reducing your monthly electric bill. You can also take advantage of energy-efficiency rebates and credits to offset the costs of installing a solar roof.
Another advantage of installing solar panels in your home is that they don’t require any expensive batteries, which are only useful during blackouts. Instead, the system sends the generated power to the electric company, who in turn will reimburse you. Another plus of installing a solar roof with a system is that it’s easier to install than other types of solar roofing systems. Traditional solar panels often require dozens of holes in your roof, while the shingle can be nailed on like asphalt shingles.
A solar roof installation from a certified roofing contractor will not only save you money but also improve your home’s energy efficiency. While most solar panels take weeks to install, it’s much simpler to hire a professional roofing contractor. The installation process is much faster, and you can receive a warranty for your investment.
What You Can Do To Get Better At Article Marketing
Do you have a few questions about article marketing before you embark on a journey that could definitely increase your ranking online? Well, you need to know the things that make article marketing work, and how you could use these strategies in your own efforts, and it starts with advice like that in this article.
When writing copy for affiliate marketing articles, you want to keep your sentences short and accessible. Keeping each sentence less than sixteen words long ensures that your writing stays focused and your readers stay interested. If you are constantly changing ideas in the middle of long sentences, you will lose your readers.
Write interesting description tags. The more intriguing these are, the more likely you will attract readers to you. These little descriptive markers are what shows up when someone searches for you on a search engine, so the more descriptive you can be in a few short words, the better.
Keep your keywords current. Researching in the beginning is very important, but do not let it end there. Keep researching on a consistent basis to find what keywords are still of good use to you. If one of your keywords is no longer popular, but a different relevant one is trending, switch them out!
Put your articles on your site first, unless forbidden. By doing this, your website will gain the attention of the search engines and you will rank more highly. Get the article indexed by the search engines on your site first and then send your articles out in the world to attract more customers.
If you put these tips to use as you go forth in article marketing for your business online, you will find that it is much easier than you thought and a much more profitable venture than you ever could have imagined. You could find that balance in techniques that works just right for you particularly.
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How Does a Solar Generator Work?
Are you looking to make the switch to solar power? If you live in an area prone to natural disasters or blackouts, you will want solar energy to prevent power outages. Additionally, renewable energy sources save money, keep you off-grid, and are often portable. One of the easiest ways to harness the sun’s power is … Read more
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Commercial solar panels Installation Perth
The dramatic increase in electricity prices, falling solar panel prices, and continuing Government incentives have made commercial solar panel installations more viable in terms of low prices and high yields. Any company’s bottom line has the potential to grow through lower power bills. Commercial solar installation is the best way to improve the sustainability and profitability of one’s business.
There are different types of commercial solar projects, including rooftop, ground-mount, carport, Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), and custom design types. Firstly, any customer exploring commercial solar panels in Perth has to contact an experienced installer. They examine the roof suitability, return on investment rate, and connection to the grid issues.
Most solar companies offer 100% guaranteed cash flow positive investments for commercial solar installations. Though solar has taken off well in the residential marketplace, the uptake in the commercial sector has been slow. This can be mainly due to a lack of understanding and expertise on how commercial solar PV can work for businesses.
dvantages of Commercial solar system
Commercial solar panels are the best alternative way for businesses to manage their energy consumption and expenses. Some of its advantages are:
Financial Stability and Cost Control
Commercial solar power protects the business from the increasing electricity prices as well as the seasonal swings in utility rates due to high consumption.
As solar power is 100% renewable it reduces the dependence on grid. As a result it provides more control and stability over energy costs.
Low operation and Maintenance
Compared to other power generation methods, O&M expenses of solar-powered systems are generally low. Though individual solar cells are fragile, they are encased in a highly tempered and protective glass case, which makes them extremely durable.
Corporate Green Image
Going Solar shows a commitment to environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility which gives an image boost to any business.
It aids in meeting the renewable energy targets of Australia.It adds to the stability of Australia’s power supply by supporting the demand on the network during peak hours of the day. Hence, the cost of power will also be secured.Boosts the Australian Job Market by creating more than 10,000 jobs.
Solar Energy Systems for Small Commercial Businesses
Commercial solar installation requires proper planning to ensure a smooth construction process. The proposed site for installation needs to be assessed. They will evaluate the property for shade analysis, structural evaluations, and topographical and geological surveys.
They will ensure the legal right to build a solar energy system on the property and determine where the new system will connect to into the power grid when completed. Based on the assessment, conceptual ideas and initial plans are formalized. Early Design Drawings show where the solar panels for business will be placed once construction begins.
Permit Drawings help to obtain various building permits. Once the permit is obtained Construction Drawings will be completed. They are the blueprints for all commercial solar installation work to follow. Construction can take as little as 5 weeks for simple installations and up to several weeks for more complex projects. It is very essential to pick a reputable and experienced installer.
After construction, the final step is commissioning. The Utility grants permission to connect and operate the solar energy system with the local power grid. It is recommended to select a solar design and installation team with proven O&M resources and a reputation for excellence in long-term support.
Why should a company use solar energy?
Going solar helps a company to cut down overhead business costs. Electric energy cost is one of the major overhead expenses and it can be effectively dealt with the installation of commercial solar panels. An average business reduces their electrical overhead by three-quarters by investing in commercial solar panel. This cash can be diverted for other business use.
When a company decides to go solar; it is a lifetime investment for the enterprise. Commercial solar panels can deliver long-term returns for the company. It can also reduce the dependence on local power companies.
Commercial solar panels reduce environmental degradation by decreasing the carbon footprint. Corporate social responsibility and sustainability are important aspects of any business.
Small business solar systems should use solar energy because it is a great way of marketing. Potential customers will go for a company that demonstrates dedication to sustainability.
The purchase of commercial solar panels is made much easier for businesses by various financial incentives put forth by Federal and state governments. Depending on the size of the project, the government supplies Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) or Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs). Both STCs and LGCs can be purchased, sold, and traded on an open market and their value fluctuates according to supply and demand.
Commercial solar panel installers Perth
Perth is one of the best cities in Australia for installing solar power systems, both for commercial and residential properties. Choosing the best solar installer in Perth from the umpteen solar companies can be difficult.
Some of the competitive solar solution Providers in Perth are:
Future solar WA
Future solar WA provides residential as well as commercial solar solutions across Western Australia and is one of the Best Solar Energy Solution providers in Perth. They provide the world’s leading brands with more than competitive prices, quality components, and experienced and professional installation teams.
Clean NRG Solar Energy
Clean NRG Solar is Perth’s leading energy production shop for homes and businesses. They provide a full design, sales and installation service for Solar Panels, Solar Battery Storage, Solar Hot Water, Solar Roof Ventilation, Solar Pool Heating with lots of variety which reduces your energy cost.
DNX Energy – Solar Power Perth
It offers solar solutions for businesses in Perth. They provide honest advice, fast and reliable service and customized solar solutions for everyone.
Solar WA
The main focus of Solar WA is solar panels, solar storage systems, solar system engineering design, utility approval, solar installation service for both residential customers and commercial businesses.
Regen Power
With over 30,000 client base, Regen Power is one of the best sellers in residential and commercial solar power system and solar panel solutions.
Commercial solar panels are worth the price, time investment, and effort is taken for installation. It redirects electricity bills to business growth and sustainability. The positive cash flow, lucrative incentives that the business receives, the high return on investment, and short payback periods are the few benefits of commercial solar installation.
The post Commercial solar panels Installation Perth appeared first on Regen Power.
Best VIC Solar Feed-In Tariffs
There is a wide variety of different reasons for residential homeowners to switch to solar energy in Victoria. This includes the cost savings of relying less on the grid or a social conscience of using environmentally friendly clean energy by using solar panels.
Feed-in tariffs are still one of the main drivers for going solar. Although the amount received by the consumer for exporting their excess clean energy back to the grid has decreased a lot since the early days, it still enables solar power system owners to generate a credit towards their bill for surplus energy.
For those who are shopping around for the best solar feed-in tariff rates in VIC, we’ve provided for you a table below which gets updated regularly. We’ve also given other information we recommend you consider so you can make a well thought out decision.
Time of use or Flat Rates?
You may be thinking at this point what the better option to take in Victoria is – a single rate or time varying rate? We go into an analysis about the time varying rate along with a modified solar payback calculator tool to help you make an informed decision.
Just be aware that currently electricity retailers in Victoria aren’t legally required to offer the time varying rates at this stage. Some may only decide to provide the single rate only instead.
Going forward, it will be interesting to see how retailers go about providing the solar feed-in Tariffs and time varying rates in the future. With the ongoing changes to rates, we’ll keep an eye on this development at Solar Choice.
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Best Solar Feed-In Rates in Victoria
The below table shows the minimum and maximum FiT rates per electricity retailer. Note that it doesn’t show the time varying feed-in tariff.
RetailerStateMin Solar FITMax Solar FITNotable ConditionsDodoVIC12.0c12.0c1st EnergyVIC6.7c11.7cSumoVIC6.7c10.2cTango EnergyVIC6.7c10.1cMust install through Tango and capped at 3.5kWh per dayMomentum EnergyVIC6.7c10.0cSystem size 10kW maxOrigin EnergyVIC6.7c10.0cOnly if buy solar through Origin – 10kW maxElysian EnergyVIC0.0c10.0cSystem size 5kW maxReAmped EnergyVIC7.1c9.1cSystem size 10kW maxRed EnergyVIC6.7c8.0cLumo EnergyVIC6.7c8.0cOVO EnergyVIC6.7c8.0cEnergy AustraliaVIC7.1c7.1cEnergy LocalsVIC6.7c7.0cCircular EnergyVIC7.0c7.0cIndigo PowerVIC7.0c7.0cDiamond EnergyVIC0.0c7.0cPowerdirectVIC6.7c6.7cDiscover EnergyVIC6.7c6.7ccapped at 300kWh per quarterElectricity In A BoxVIC6.7c6.7cPowershopVIC6.7c6.7cGloBird EnergyVIC6.7c6.7cQEnergyVIC6.7c6.7cAGLVIC6.7c6.7cSystem size 10kW maxAlinta EnergyVIC6.7c6.7cSystem size 5kW maxPeople EnergyVIC6.7c6.7cSimply EnergyVIC6.7c6.7cKogan EnergyVIC6.7c6.7cCovaUVIC0.0c0.0cPowerclubVICAmber ElectricNSWMarket linked FIT (Variable)PowerclubNSWMarket linked FIT (Variable)Social EnergyNSWMust install solar and battery through Social Energy
*Please note that we periodically update these tables. Please email us at [email protected] if anything is out of date.
What solar system size limits exist in Victoria?
How electricity is transported. (Image via AEMO. Click to enlarge.)
Originally the Australian electricity grid was designed with unidirectional power flow in mind, i.e. one way flow of electricity along a series of networks starting from the generator to the household owner.
Currently with over 2 million home solar systems across Australian rooftops, network operators are reporting issues with congestion and voltage rise across the grid. The main way they limit this issue is through the implementation of size limits for solar inverter capacities and export limits for exported solar energy.
In Victoria there are 4 Distributed Network Service Providers (DNSPs) and each have different restrictions on what can be installed. See our guide below.
NetworkDescriptionReferencesUnited EnergySingle phase: 10kW system size limit
3-phase: 30kW system size limit.Solar EnergyCitipower/PowercorSingle phase: Up to 5kW system size limit (by inverter)
3-phase: Up to 30kW system size limit (by inverter at 10kW per phase)Solar and other generationJemenaSingle phase: Up to 10kVA (by inverter)
3-phase: Up to 30kVA (by 10kW per phase inverter)Embedded generation enquiryAusnetSingle phase: Up to 10kW system size limit
3-phase: Up to 30kW system size limitSolar capacity pre-approval
Caveat to these rules per network: The information in the table above serves as a general guideline to get you started. Just be aware that the actual implementation will differ depending on your area and specific network. We recommend that you discuss your options with your solar installer who should be an expert in getting solar systems approved by your local network.
Is the limit strict or is there a way to get around it? In some cases your network may allow you to install a larger system then their standard rules, but you may have to meet certain requirements. This could involve having export limitations or paying an additional cost for upgrades to the physical network in your area.
Does the limit apply to solar inverter capacity exclusively? Or does it also include battery inverter capacity?It’s important to note the distinction here. Some networks don’t count battery inverter capacity towards their stated maximum size limits because of the fact that battery systems with their own dedicated inverters generally don’t automatically export surplus solar electricity to the grid. This is in contrast to modern, grid-connected solar systems which do.
Will you need to install additional technology on your solar system which has an ‘export limit’? What about ‘solar smoothing’?Export limiters prevent your system exporting solar into the grid over a specific threshold, such as the 3kW limit for a 5kW system. Using this type of technology it might be possible to exceed the above limits and install a larger solar power system.
Some networks will also require what is known as a ‘solar smoothing’ device. This is a small battery bank that stops any sudden drops in your solar system energy output due to clouds passing overhead. In particular, these devices help make the solar output on ‘thin’, spindly grids in regional areas more manageable.
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What retailer has the best solar feed-in tariff in VIC?
At the time of writing (November 2021), Dodo has the best solar feed-in tariff in VIC, whereby the maximum a customer can get is 12 cents per kilowatt hour (c/kWh). . They are followed by 1st Energy in second place with an offer of 11.7 c/kWh.
Is there a minimum feed-in tariff in VIC?
Luckily there is a minimum feed-in tariff for solar customers that is mandated by the Victorian government.
In Victoria, electricity retailers with more than 5,000 customers are mandated to offer a minimum solar feed-in tariff rate to their customers. This is divided into what is known as a ‘single rate’ (Flat Fit rate) and a ‘time varying rate’.
As of the 1st of July 2021, consumers in Victoria have the option to choose one of these rates:
PeriodWeekdayWeekend2021/2022Flat Raten/an/a 6.7 c/kWhOff peak10pm – 7am10pm – 7am6.7 c/kWhShoulder7am – 3pm and 9pm -10pm7am – 10pm6.1 c/kWhPeak3pm – 9pmn/a10.9 c/kWh
History of solar feed-in tariffs in Victoria
The Premium Solar Feed-in Tariff was introduced on 1st of November 2009 in Victoria offering residentials a rate of 60 c/kWh for exported solar energy. This program closed to new applicants on the 29th of December 2011. Participants of this scheme will receive the premium rate until 2024.
After December 2011, Victorians were offered a Standard Feed-in Tariff which offered a ‘one for one’ rate based on the customers electricity rate, or a Transitional Feed-in Tariff of 25 c/kWh. These premium rates were scheduled to end in 2016 and also closed for new applicants at the end of 2012.
Since then the Victorian Essential Services Commission has dictated a minimum feed-in tariff each financial year to the industry which is designed to reflect the wholesale market plus a premium to reflect a green benefit.
You can see the history of the minimum feed in tariffs in Victoria in the below table:
201520162017-182018-192019-202020-212021-22Wholesale electricity prices5.74.68.16.88.97.34.0Minimum feed-in tariffs6.25.011.39.912.010.26.7
In 2017, the Victorian Essential Services Commission proposed a variable feed-in tariff be introduced along with the above mentioned flat rates. In 2018 this went as high as 29c/kWh during peak times.
The logic behind the variable FiT rate was the fact that electricity is worth more on the grid in the latter part of the day, i.e. between 3pm – 9pm. So an incentive was created to nudge solar system owners to design systems or shift electricity demand to export a higher amount of electricity back into the grid later in the day.
This new variable FiT rate opened discussion for potentially higher adoption for battery system owners to ‘play the game’ of selling their stored energy during peak periods in order to capitalise on the financial incentives.
Conclusion:
Fortunately for residents of Victoria, there is a minimum feed-in tariff they receive. Although going forward, the revised solar feed-in rates for 2021/2022 will see a noticeable drop.
As always solar feed-in rates are only part of the puzzle when assessing an electricity plan and when determining whether investing in solar power is a good idea. Hopefully this helps you get started.
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Best NSW Solar Feed-In Tariffs
Solar feed-in tariffs are a payment that you receive from your chosen electricity supplier in exchange for any surplus clean energy that your solar panels feed back into the grid.
There have been many changes to this legislation in New South Wales over the last few years. When solar panels were new 10 years ago, the feed-in tariff that residential households received for exporting to the grid was a lot higher than it is today, which gave the industry a good kickstart.
Since then, the amount received for solar exports has dropped considerably. This has led some people to question whether solar is worth it in Australia. (Spoiler alert: We come to the conclusion that going solar still makes sense with enough value to be created simply be reducing the amount of energy you buy off retailers)
Many solar consumers are also motivated to take action on climate change and reduce their own personal carbon footprint.
In most of the scenarios we have looked at recently, we have observed the payback period to be anywhere between 3 – 5 years for an appropriately sized residential solar system (without a battery). Of course this depends on the brand and model of solar panels and whether there are any extra costs for your installation.
If you’re looking for the best solar feed-in tariff rates in NSW, we’ve provided you with a table that lists the rates of the major electricity retailers in the state. We’ve also provided you with other considerations we recommend you take into account in your decision making process
Be careful of retailers offering a high solar feed-in tariff as a drawcard
Don’t fall for the trap of jumping for a retailer solely on having the highest feed-in tariff rate
In most cases the plans with the highest feed-in rates also have high electricity purchase rates. It is important to get an overall picture of the net spend on each electricity plan to make an informed decision.
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Solar feed-in tariff rates in NSW:
RetailerStateMin Solar FITMax Solar FITNotable ConditionsMojo PowerNSW7.5c22.0cCapped at first 5kWh per dayRed EnergyNSW6.0c18.0cCapped at first 5kWh per dayDiscover EnergyNSW6.0c16.0cCapped at 300kWh per quarterActewAGLNSW8.0c15.0cSystem size 10kW maxAGLNSW7.0c12.0cSystem size 10kW max1st EnergyNSW6.0c11.0cGEE EnergyNSW5.0c11.0cCapped at 10kWh per dayMomentum EnergyNSW0.0c10.0cSystem size 10kW maxSmart EnergyNSW7.0c10.0cOrigin EnergyNSW5.0c10.0cOnly if buy solar through OriginReAmped EnergyNSW0.0c9.0cSystem size 10kW maxElysian EnergyNSW0.0c9.0cSystem size 10kW maxCovaUNSW0.0c8.5cPeople EnergyNSW8.0c8.0cQEnergyNSW8.0c8.0cSumoNSW5.5c8.0cEnergy AustraliaNSW7.6c7.6cSystem size 10kW maxEnova EnergyNSW0.0c7.0cEnergy LocalsNSW7.0c7.0cDodoNSW7.0c7.0cBright Spark PowerNSW7.0c7.0cCircular EnergyNSW7.0c7.0cElectricity in a BoxNSW7.0c7.0cIndigo PowerNSW7.0c7.0cGlow PowerNSW7.0c7.0cDiamond EnergyNSW0.0c7.0cOVO EnergyNSW0.0c7.0cAlinta EnergyNSW6.7c6.7cInverter size 5kW maxRadian EnergyNSW6.0c6.0cPooled EnergyNSW4.5c6.0cSimply EnergyNSW5.5c5.5cTango EnergyNSW5.5c5.5cMust install through Tango and capped at 3.5kWh per dayNectrNSW5.5c5.5cPowerdirectNSW5.0c5.0cPowershopNSW0.0c5.0cSystem size 10kW maxKogan EnergyNSW4.4c4.4cFuture X PowerNSW4.0c4.0cGloBird EnergyNSW1.0c3.0cLocality Planning EnergyNSW0.0c8.5cOn by EnergyAustraliaNSW0.0c0.0cArc Energy GroupNSW0.0c0.0cAmber ElectricNSWMarket linked FIT (Variable)PowerclubNSWMarket linked FIT (Variable)Social EnergyNSWMust install solar and battery through Social Energy
*Please note that we periodically update these tables. Please email us at [email protected] if anything is out of date.
Why you should consider other factors apart from just feed-in tariffs
As mentioned above, because the amount received from solar feed-in tariffs has decreased considerably in the last 10 years, consumers should consider other factors in their decision making process
Beyond financial factors, there may be other factors you may consider such as providing good customer service. There’s nothing more frustrating to Australian consumers than talking to someone in an outsourced customer support team.
For others, choosing a retailer that is more environmentally friendly even if they come with a higher price tag.
Although the premium tariffs are no longer in place, low solar PV system prices mean that they are no longer as important as they once were for solar to make financial sense. Increasing electricity costs also provide an incentive to invest in a solar PV system, as it offers homeowners a means of taking control of their energy bills (read more aboutsolar self-consumption
The trend towards solar self-consumption
An example how home energy consumption and solar production from a 5kW solar system intersect during the day. The red area above the blue line represents exported solar energy.
There is now a trend of one’s motivation towards solar self-consumption, which focuses on designing an appropriately sized system for your energy bill and shifting as much of your power usage as possible to ‘solar power hours’.
A typical household buys energy at 20-30 c/kWh and is offered a feed-in tariff of 5-10 c/kWh. Its a logical conclusion that offsetting the amount of energy you buy from your electricity retailer is more valuable than selling it back to them. This also supports the concept of a solar battery to store excess energy to reuse at night times.
So it’s clear that the justification for going solar in NSW today is for ‘self-consumption’. Hopefully you’ll be informed about how much you can get for your excess solar power from the major electricity retailers so you can make an educated decision about what one to choose.
Is there a minimum feed-in tariff in NSW?
At the moment, there is no mandatory minimum feed-in tariff rate in NSW. Instead, individual electricity retailers assign a value to exported solar power as they see fit. It is a competitive market so electricity retailers do have an incentive to offer a reasonable feed in tariff to win customers with solar panels installed.
According to Energy NSW the benchmark rate is 6.0 to 7.3 cents per kWh for 2021 in NSW.
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What retailer has the best solar feed-in tariff in NSW?
At the time of writing (June 2021), Mojo Power currently has the highest solar feed-in tariff offer in NSW, whereby the maximum a customer can get is 22 cents per kilowatt hour (c/kWh). ReAmped Energy comes in second with 21 c/kWH with Red Energy at third with 18 c/kWh.
Each of those plans is subject to eligibility criteria and specific terms and conditions which you can read on their websites.
What are the solar system network limits in NSW?
How electricity is transported. (Image via AEMO. Click to enlarge.)
The Distributed Network Service Providers (DNSPs) are the companies that own the electricity infrastructure (poles & wires). In NSW there are three companies that own different regions across the state (see table below).
These companies have limits which dictate what size solar systems you are able to install and how much electricity you are able to export back into the grid.
The electricity grid was originally designed in Australia which was designed with the view of electricity being transferred unidirectionally from coal fired power plants across the network to homes. Now with over 2 million home solar systems in Australia generating their own electricity the grid is tackling issues such as rising voltages from exported solar energy.
The solar system size limits and export limits are their current way of controlling those issues. Hopefully in the future smarter grids and technology will enable these limits to be relaxed.
NetworkDescriptionReferencesAusgridA limit of 10kW for small-scale systems (inverter capacity)
Large scale generation installations (i.e. systems between 10kW and 30kW) require that an additional submission for an embedded generator connection application be made.Connecting embedded generationEssentialYou application for a solar connection will be instantly approved if you system meets the below kW and your application meets all other requirements:
Rural: 3kWUrban: 5kW
There may be export limitations due to network constraints.
Inverter capacity limits include battery inverter (if this is separate from the solar inverter)Network information EndeavourSingle phase: Up to a 5kW system
3-phase: Up to a 30kW systemInstalling a new solar generator
History of feed-in tariffs in NSW
Currently there is no legislated minimum feed-in tariff in NSW, so electricity retailers are free to offer what they like – although it is a competitive market.
Commencing on the 1st of January 2010, the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme offered a generous gross feed in tariff of 60c per kWh for 7 years until December 2016. However back then the upfront cost of solar was also almost 5 times what it is today, so the scheme was designed to help kickstart the industry.
This rate was significantly reduced to 20c per kWh overnight on the 27th of October 2010 when a bill was passed through NSW parliament resulting in a day of chaos for the solar industry.
Eventually the premium feed-in tariff scheme was closed to new applications from midnight 28 April 2011 by the NSW Government.
The scheme finally ended on 31 December 2016 as initially scheduled and all legislated payments ceased.
Now under the open market conditions retailers compete for solar customers electricity plans partly on the feed in tariffs they offer. The wholesale electricity price in the middle of the day has dropped over recent years as the millions of solar systems produce excess power which has applied some downward pressure on feed-in tariff rates.
This is now an important consideration for solar buyers as the goal is not simply to put as many panels on the roof to generate as much electricity as possible. In most cases the best ROI can be reached by matching the size of the solar system to the daytime energy needs of the house, to ensure that you are focusing on self-consuming solar power and not relying on a feed in tariff.
Many customers are now installing a battery with their solar system or retrofitting a battery to their existing Solar PV system. Here’s a few case studies from Sydney to consider.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve come away more informed about how to choose an electricity retailer that meets your needs. As mentioned, remember not to jump on a provider solely on giving you the highest feed-in tariff amount.
Consider other factors such as payback period and usage or supply rates in your decision making process. It’s also a good idea to consider non-financial concerns too such as customer service.
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Is 10kW solar system enough for a home in Perth?
The size of a solar system is decided on the basis of one’s capacity to afford the system, available roof space and their electricity needs. Variety of solar packages are available as 3kW solar system, 6kW solar system, 10kW solar systems.
Selecting a bigger system size is the best way to go as a smaller system would not be able to generate enough power to get through the times of higher power demand.
Considering future electricity needs such as buying an electric vehicle, switching to electric heating and cooling or adding a pool pump it is more cost-effective to buy a larger system than you currently need.
The key cost difference between a smaller system and a larger one is not much. The additional cost of added components of a larger system is relatively cheaper.
Larger systems are more in demand now due to the higher feed-in tariffs and lower cost of panels. A 10 KW solar system will produce an average of 14,000 kWh per year.
A 10KW solar system Perth is one of the largest solar PV systems available for residential use. It is ideal for large households using 20kW/day and an electricity budget of $800 or more per bill cycle.
It helps to maximise reliability, output and longevity. With it one gets rewarded financially for the excess power that is exported back to the grid.
Can we run an AC and Car Charger in the Solar panel?
The hike in oil prices and global warming has made electric cars a feasible option for those who want to save money and reduce greenhouse gases.
Most of the electric cars need between 12 and 18kWh of electricity to travel 100km. The local kWh cost per 1 kWh is 30 cents.
The electricity cost for a 100km EV trip would be $4,800. This would be at least half the cost of the fuel required to power a conventional petrol vehicle.
Running a car charger in solar panel is more convenient than driving to a charging station. The biggest advantage is that one can charge their car for less money.
Vehicles with larger batteries need more power and more solar panels are required to charge them. Home solar system Perth is a valuable asset that harness the power of the sun to power electric cars.
Rise in global temperatures have made air conditioners more common in residential and commercial establishments. The high cost of running air conditioners can be effectively dealt with the solar panels. Undoubtedly, it would help to make significant savings in the long run.
An AC would consume about 1 to 2 units of electricity in an hour, based on its tonnage and heat load in the room.
A 1 kW Solar PV Panel would produce about 5-7 units in a day, which can get consumed in 4-5 hours of continuous running of an air conditioner. If other appliances in a setup are also added then the need of energy increases.
1 ton AC is best to set up 6 solar panels with 250 watts each. If the usage of air conditioner is more, then a bigger battery storage size and more kW of solar panel will be required.
Can we run all home appliances in 10kW Solar system?
Increase in technology has made a 10KW solar system Perth achievable in residential setting. It is ideal for usage in large households, offices, commercial shops and factories.
A 10kW solar system could be a perfect solution for those who use around 20kW hours of energy during daytime, have reverse cycle air conditioning, a large pool, home automation, and an electricity budget of $800 or more.
It can run 2-3 Air Conditioners along with standard load like lighting, fans, tv, washing machine etc. If battery is added to the system, the house will never run out of power.
It is capable of running 8 LED Lights, 8 Fan, 2 tonne AC 2 nos, one fridge, a TV, Washing Machine and a Cooler. During the life span of 25 years, it releases 360000 units of electricity.
With batteries one can store 30000 watt-hours of electricity to be used at night or in an emergency. The system provides a return on investment in 5.5 years.
In contrast to a 6KW solar system Perth, a 10 KW system is more robust, easy to maintain and produce enough electricity to power a home with slightly above-average electricity consumption.
Plan your solar system in Perth
First thing to remember while planning a solar system in Perth is to investigate one’s home energy efficiency. A home energy audit can help one understand where the home is losing energy. Consequently, one can improve the efficiency of their home.
To begin with, one can use mapping tools or work directly with a solar installer who can provide an accurate assessment of solar potential as well as detailed recommendations, estimates, and equipment expertise.
A solar contractor recommends the system’s type and size, based on the annual electricity needs and any future additions.
There are online tools that helps to find and compare solar installers. While researching installers, be sure to find qualified and insured professionals with the proper certification.
After obtaining Bids and Site Assessments from Solar Installers one need to understand Incentives and other financing options.
Installers will ensure that the solar system is installed with proper orientation and tilt so as to maximise the seasonal solar energy received and produced by the system.
A good quality 10kW solar system costs between $9,900 and $14,300. It generates around 44 units per day and has an average payback period of 3 to 5 years.
In short, its advantages are so much that a 10 KW solar system has become a mainstream solar panel for enormous homes and little workplaces.
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Regen Power – Journey of a renewable energy pioneer
Published in Have A Go News VOLUME 30 NO. 11 ISSUE NO. 351 JUNE 2021
ESTABLISHED in 2003 by Curtin University Emeritus Professor Chem Nayar, Canning Vale-based Regen Power is a national company
providing renewable energy products and services to residential, commercial, and off-grid mining and remote community markets.
Regen Power CEO, Professor Chem Nayar is one of WA’s most outstanding engineers, dedicating almost four decades to advancing the clean energy industry. Professor Nayar was conferred the prestigious Sustainable Energy Association Awards’
Ambassador Award in 2011. Earlier this year, Professor Nayar was selected as a WA Finalist for Australian of the Year 2021
and was also nominated as a finalist of Western Australian of the year 2021, Professional category.
Regen Power Managing Director Nikhil Jayaraj, who was named a winner of the 40 Under 40 awards 2020, said, “Now is the moment to invest in solar systems when government subsidies cover approximately 50% of the cost.”
View the printed article here.
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Opportunities in renewable energy generation and storage – Published in the West Australian
Click here to read the full article published in The West Australian 04/06/2021 page 88
Providing reliable and cheap electricity across Western Australia is a fascinating but complex task.
While there are many challenges in reaching customers spread out over thousands of kilometres, the moment has come to provide the State with more options for renewable energy generation and storage.
A co-ordinated approach to solar energy generation and battery storage is one way to accomplish this.
Over 30 per cent of houses in WA already have solar, and batteries are critical to store our excess solar energy for use at peak times, and to connect Western Australia to a more sustainable energy future.
While residential batteries enable consumers to store extra solar energy and use it later during times of peak energy demand, community batteries benefit everyone.
These would be located where the network must be upgraded to preserve reliability.
The battery absorbs excess solar energy and smooths the flow which improves the quality of power sent to customers.
The key barrier for the widespread usage of batteries has been capital cost.
Rebate programs for battery storage are gaining traction throughout Australia, but not so much in Western Australia.
The next opportunity for the State Government is to consider a home battery subsidy.
In other jurisdictions this has led to savings of up to 80 per cent in electricity costs for the average home.
States such as South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria have battery rebate programs, with residents receiving up to $5000 for the installation of new lithium-ion battery systems.
This scheme has supported a higher uptake of renewable energy, allowing more homes to install solar panels.
While we have a lot of work to do in renewable energy generation and storage, Western Australia can be proud of how far we’ve come in a short space of time.
Professor Chem Nayar is Curtin University chair and professor in electrical and renewable energy engineering and a finalist in the West Australian of the Year Award.
This week The West Australian has run opinion pieces from some finalists in answer to the question “what is the one thing you would change about WA?”
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Boort Poultry Farm Installs 200kW Solar
A new poultry farm was constructed in 2020 in Boort and is now powered by 200kW of solar panels.
Solar Choice have partnered with Santrev, Australia’s leading poultry shed builder, to help the poultry sector capitalise on the power of the sun. The project in Boort is a leading example of how renewable energy can lower power bills and reduce the carbon footprint of the farm.
The 200kW solar system features Trina Solar Panels and 3 x Austrian-engineered Fronius 27kW Eco inverters which are considered leading products for commercial solar projects.
The project will generate around 300,000 kWh per year and will abate approximately 321 tonnes of C02 emissions p.a.
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