Solar panel installation
Sunburnt Bills Got You Down? Solar Panel Installation Can Set You Free in Australia!
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about solar panel installation in Australia, from the process and equipment to choosing a reputable installer and maximising your savings.
Solar Panel Installation in Australia
Solar panel installation is a decisive step towards reducing electricity bills and carbon emissions. It’s a smart financial move that significantly contributes to keeping our environment green and pollution-free. This guide is a must-read for Australians who want to impact the environment through solar panel installation positively.
The Solar Panel Installation Process
Solar panels are just part of the installation process. Once your solar panels have been successfully installed on your roof, your meter will need to be updated. This is to make sure you can export any excess solar energy back to the grid and receive solar feed-in credits on your energy bill, or to be stored in your solar battery.
Assessment
A professional assessment determines your property’s best system size and panel placement.
Permits and Documentation
Obtain necessary permits and documentation, which vary by local government area.
Choosing Equipment
Select high-quality panels and inverters from reputable brands like LG, Trina, and Sungrow.
Installation
Certified installers will mount and integrate the panels with your home’s electrical system.
Inspection and Approval
A final inspection by authorities ensures everything is up to code before connection to the grid.
Assessment:
There are primarily two types of assessment you need to do before deciding on solar installation
- Assessment of your energy needs
- Assessment of your roof
Assessment of your energy needs
Review Electricity Bills: Analyze your electricity bills for the past year. Look for peak usage periods and identify areas where you can reduce consumption. This data will help determine the size and capacity of the solar panel system you’ll need to meet your energy needs.
Consider Future Changes: Consider any upcoming changes that might affect your energy needs, such as purchasing an electric vehicle, adding new appliances, or extending your home.
Load Analysis: Perform a load analysis to determine which appliances and systems are the biggest energy consumers. Identify high-energy appliances such as air conditioners, heaters, water heaters, refrigerators, and other major electronics. Understanding your peak energy demands will help size your solar energy system accordingly.
Budget and Goals: Assess your budget and goals for going solar. Determine how much you’re willing to invest upfront and what level of energy independence you aim to achieve. Balancing your budgetary constraints with your long-term energy goals will help guide the design and configuration of your solar energy system.
Assessment of Roof
Sun Ready? Assessing Your Roof for Solar Panel Installation
So you’re excited about making the switch to solar power – fantastic! Before you get too caught up in imagining the sunshine powering your home, assessing your roof’s suitability for solar panel installation is essential. After all, your roof will be the foundation for your clean energy future.
This guide will help you with the knowledge to evaluate your roof and ensure it’s ready to become a solar powerhouse.
Key Factors for Roof Assessment:
- Sunlight Exposure and Roof Direction: In Australia, the orientation of your home is usually based on whether the living areas face north. This is because north-facing rooms receive sunlight for the most extended period of the day in winter. For solar panels to work effectively, they need to be installed on a north-facing roof.
- Roof Size and Shape: Your roof’s size directly affects the number of solar panels you can install, impacting the overall energy generation capacity. A larger, unobstructed roof is ideal, but even smaller or oddly shaped roofs can accommodate solar panels with creative planning.
- Roof Pitch: The angle of your roof slope also plays a role. Generally, a roof pitch between 20 and 40 degrees is optimal for solar panel installation, as it allows for maximum sunlight exposure and minimises the risk of debris accumulation. However, flatter roofs can still work with proper mounting systems.
- Roof Material: Many roofing materials, like tin or tile roofs, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and concrete tiles, can work well with solar panels. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to confirm that your roof is in good shape and has a long enough lifespan to handle the weight and potential impact of the panels.
- Shading: Trees, power lines, or nearby structures casting shade on your roof can significantly impact solar panel efficiency. Analyse potential shading patterns throughout the day to ensure your panels receive optimal sunlight.
Permits and Documentation
Navigating the legal landscape is crucial for a compliant installation:
Local Council Regulations: You’ll need to adhere to specific regulations set by your local council, which may include restrictions on panel placement and aesthetics.
Building Permits: Depending on where you are situated, you might be required by law to acquire specific building permits to install solar panels on your property.
Grid Connection Approval: You must apply for grid connection approval from your energy distributor before installation.
Choosing Equipment
Product Selection Process:
Choose high-quality solar panels and inverters suitable for the Australian climate and conditions. These products are known for their reliability, performance, and durability.
Considerations:
- Panel Types: Select solar panels with high-efficiency ratings and durability to withstand Australia’s harsh weather conditions, such as heat, UV exposure, and potential hailstorms.
- Inverter Options: Choose inverters optimised for Australian grid conditions and voltage requirements. This will ensure compatibility and efficiency in converting solar energy into usable AC electricity for your home.
Brands:
Consider reputable brands with a strong presence in the Australian market, offering warranties and support tailored to Australian homeowners, such as LG, Trina Solar, SunPower, and Sungrow.
Professional Installation:
- Certified installers with experience in the Australian solar industry will handle the installation process, ensuring compliance with Australian standards and regulations.
- Installation Steps:
- Roof Mounting: Securely mount the solar panels on your roof using robust racking systems designed to withstand Australia’s weather extremes, including high winds and potential cyclones.
- Electrical Wiring: When connecting solar panels to your home’s electrical system, it’s essential to adhere to Australian electrical safety standards and regulations to ensure safe and reliable operation.
- Inverter Installation: Please install inverters in a good location where they will be safe from very hot or cold temperatures and bad weather. This will make sure they work well and use energy effectively.
Inspection and Approval
The final step involves official inspections and approvals:
Local Authority Inspection: Your installation will be inspected by a local authority to confirm it meets all safety standards and regulations.
System Activation: Once approved, your solar system will be activated, enabling you to begin generating clean, renewable energy.
By following these steps and working with accredited professionals, you can ensure a smooth and compliant solar panel installation process in Australia. Remember to consult local experts for advice about your situation and location.
How do solar panel systems work?
Solar panels use sunlight to make electricity. The panels have PV cells that convert sunlight into direct (DC) electricity. An inverter converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can connect household appliances to the grid.
The electricity generation output of a solar panel system is influenced by various factors, including its location, panel orientation, and the presence of any shading. Solar panels perform a little inefficiently when facing south, with minimal obstruction from trees or buildings.
The following are the components required for Solar Panel Installation:
- Solar panels: Solar panels or PV Panels are the most visible part of a solar panel system and come in various sizes and types. The most common type is the monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon panels.
- Inverter: This essential component converts direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can power appliances and be sent back to the grid.
- Mounting system: Solar panels mounted on a secure structure, like a roof or a ground-mounted frame, can be positioned at the best angle to receive maximum sunlight exposure.
- Batteries: You can add optional batteries to your solar panel system to store any excess energy generated during sunny periods. This stored energy can be used during times of low sunlight or power outages.
- Monitoring system: Solar panel systems often come equipped with a monitoring system that enables users to monitor their energy production and usage in real-time
Panel Orientation. The key to peak performance
Orientation is crucial for achieving peak performance from solar panels. In Australia, panels can be positioned to face north, northeast, northwest, or west. Our retail solar partners specialise in determining the optimal direction and angle for panel placement on your home. They consider the sun’s path throughout the year, ensuring that your solar system operates efficiently regardless of the season. With this approach, your solar panels will work tirelessly year-round, maximising energy production daily.
You're ready. Is your roof?
Roof direction
Is your roof facing the correct direction and free from shade between 9am and 3pm?
Roof space
Is your roof big enough? You’ll need at least 15m squared for a 1.5kW system.
Roof Strength
Is your roof strong enough to support the solar panels and racking?
How solar power works
The orange elements show where energy is being produced and used in a typical home.
Solar panel installation entails placing solar panels on your roof or property to harness sunlight and transform it into electricity.
Depending on the size and complexity of the system, the installation can typically be completed within a day.
Ensure the installation area is accessible and straightforward with any obstructions. Your solar installer will guide you through any specific preparations needed.
While most roofs are suitable, factors such as orientation, angle, and shading may impact efficiency. A site assessment is necessary to determine suitability.
It’s recommended that a certified installer be used to ensure safety and compliance with Australian standards.
Solar panels can reduce your electricity bills, and you may be eligible for government rebates and feed-in tariffs.
Various federal and state rebates and incentives are available to help offset installation costs.when the sun goes down.
Regular cleaning and inspections are recommended. Most systems require minimal maintenance.
Without a battery system, your solar panels will not provide power during a blackout for safety reasons
How do I choose a reputable installer in Australia?
Choosing a reputable solar panel installer in Australia is crucial for ensuring a quality installation. Here are some key points to consider:
- Accreditation: Look for installers accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) or Solar Accreditation Australia. Accreditation ensures that the installer meets industry best practices and Australian standards.
- Experience: Consider the company’s experience and whether they have technical and sales support within Australia. A local, accredited installer will likely be readily available for follow-up services.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Check installers’ online reviews and ask your neighbours or friends for recommendations. Feedback and positive reviews from satisfied customers can be a reliable measure of a service’s quality and dependability.
- Consumer Protection Standards: Choose a solar retailer or installer approved by the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC), which means they meet specific consumer protection standards.
- Quotes and Contracts: Obtain multiple quotes for comparison and ensure the contract includes all necessary details, such as costs, warranties, and timelines.
- Warranties and Support: Ensure the installer offers good warranties on products and workmanship. Also, check what kind of post-installation support is available.
- Licenses: Verify that the installer has the necessary electrical contractor’s or appropriate builder’s license, a legal requirement in some states and territories.
By following these measures, you can make an educated choice and select a solar panel installer who will deliver a top-notch solar system and dependable service. Conduct thorough research and engage with multiple providers before making your final decision.
Orientation. The key to peak performance.
In Australia, solar panels can face north, north-east, north-west or west. One of our retail solar partners will work out the best direction and angle for panels on your home. They’ll account for the sun’s path all year round. This means your solar system will be working hard, summer or winter, 365 days a year.
Solar seasonality in New South Wales
Summer
Stay cool in summer with solar. With an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day, your home can run efficiently with the opportunity to offset your bill.
Autumn
Autumn provides great conditions for solar energy. With an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day, there’s plenty of light to help power your home.
Winter
New South Wales has more blue sky days in winter than in summer. Even though the days are a little shorter, averaging 7 hours of sunshine, you’ll still power your home with solar.
Spring
Cool months offer conditions where solar can be efficient and effective. Averaging 8 hours of daily sunshine, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of this perfect solar season.
Solar energy glossary
Get familiar with all the different solar terms, phrases and acronyms. Reference this quick guide when researching your solar system and stay on top of what you need to know.
