Will solar save me money?

Solar power can help you dramatically reduce the running costs on your property, especially in Queensland, the sunshine state. To find out how much money you can save with solar panels for house or business, there are a number of factors that need to be considered:

Your average energy consumption

Checking the back of your last power bill is a great way to find out how much electricity you use. It's also necessary for figuring out what kind of solar system will be right for you, and whether it'll save money in the long run!

In a nutshell, larger properties or households with higher energy requirements will need a solar power system around the 5kW range or higher.

Usage patterns within your family home or business

Your solar system will produce electricity during daylight hours and any excess electricity generated is fed back into the grid, unless you have a solar battery or other location where you plan to divert excess energy. Your provider credits your export of power, which helps offset your bills while also conserving natural resources - a win for your wallet and the planet.

Your feed-in tariff rate

Energy providers will typically offer you a rate of 8c/kWh for the solar power that is fed back into the grid, but it's best to check with your provider and if possible shop around for better rates. Rates can vary state-to-state too, so make sure you're getting an accurate quote!

The size of the system you install (a big variable)

With solar power, size matters. If you don’t install a system that is large enough to cover your current usage then the payback period will be too long and the ROI won't be as high as it could have been if you installed larger unit.

For example, a larger solar system, such as a 5kW unit, will produce far more energy than smaller ones that are 2 kW or less. Remember the main factors that will determine how large of a solar system you should install: The size and consumption behaviour of your property. Finding the perfect match between what is best for your needs means spending less money on electricity costs than if you had installed too small or too big a system. Your electrician is a great resource to help you choose the right system for your property.

Where you live - geographic location

Australia is blessed with with plenty of sunshine, and here in south east Queensland we get to enjoy that more than anyone. If you're considering installing a solar system, it's important to consider the climate of your region. You'll find that in Queensland, where temperatures are high and there is plenty of sun exposure, your energy production will be much higher than if you were living somewhere like Melbourne where you can have four seasons in a day.

The amount of solar radiation in your region will determine the size of a system. For example, you may need to install 2 kW unit where there is more sunlight than anywhere else or up to 3kW units if that area has less sun to get the same results.

Keep your solar system in top shape with regular maintenance to make sure it is operating at peak performance - and saving you money. We are your reliable team when it comes to solar system maintenance in Springfield Lakes, Ipswich, Brisbane and beyond.