Need to Know
- Readily available technology with available incentives
- Quick reduction in household emissions and energy bills
- Supports related technologies, including storage batteries and electric vehicles
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems use energy from the sun to create electricity. This technology is very well suited for Australian households and businesses, which receive sunlight most of the year. Solar panels will help you save on your energy bills and reduce your household emissions. Already, more than 55 per cent of households in Alexandrina have solar – why not join them?
Types of Systems
Solar systems can connect to the main electricity grid and with a battery to store solar power. Solar systems that are connected to the main grid send back any excess solar electricity generated. This will generate an extra income in return, called a feed-in tariff.
To connect to the grid you will need approval from SA Power Networks. Systems larger than 5kW can require further approval. A battery system stores the solar energy generated for use at night or on days with limited sunlight. Battery technology systems can be used in combination with a grid-connected system.
Equipment
Solar Panels
Solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight to electricity. The number of panels you’ll need will depend upon how much electricity you use and your budget. You’ll need to talk with a solar installer about what’s right for you. You can also try the SunSPOT solar calculator.
Switching to solar is a long-term investment in terms of it paying itself off. Solar panel warranties have two components: the materials and the performance. These generally have different warranty periods. The material warranty covers the quality of the materials against defects. It usually goes for 10 years but can be up to 25 or more.
The performance warranty covers the power output of the panels. It is a depreciating cover as the product ages and becomes less efficient over its life. For example, panels will be covered to produce 90% of rated output after 10 years. Performance warranty can cover up to 25 years or more.
Generally, solar panels have a lifetime of between 25 and 30 years. They may produce power for longer at a reduced efficiency rate. As technology advances, newer models may have longer lifespans. Always read the fine print of warranties to ensure you understand what your panels are covered for and what excesses.
Inverter
An inverter is an essential component of your solar system. It converts the direct current generated by the solar panels into alternating current for your household devices and electricity grid. A solar system with batteries requires a hybrid inverter that can supply solar power both from the battery and the grid. Inverters' lifespan will vary but they are generally covered by a warranty up to between five and 10 years.
There are a range of factors that can impact their lifespan. These include the main grid voltage and power quality, and environmental factors (ambient temperature, dust, heat & ventilation, and pests).
Batteries
Solar panels only generate electricity during the sunlight hours. This means you will either need to draw power from batteries or the grid at night or on overcast days. Batteries allow you to store the surplus power from your solar panels instead of feeding it back into the grid. Batteries' storage capacity has increased in the past years, making them more convenient for households and businesses. Battery installations have to follow safety standards.
As with solar panels, you need to think about your current energy needs and how much you plan to store. You should also get a system that allows you to expand in the future, if those energy needs grow. Batteries will typically have a warranty cover of 10 - 20 years. As the battery degrades over its life, its capacity to store power reduces. Once a battery can no longer hold 60% of its original capacity, it is generally perceived to be at the end of its life.
The length of the warranty will provide a cover until it fails to meet particular conditions. These conditions may include warranty expiry, maximum cycle allocation for the battery is exceeded, or the energy throughput capacity is reached. Ensure you check the framework of your warranty to understand its limitations. These can change depending on the brand and model.
Next Steps:
- Find an accredited local solar installer from the Clean Energy Council.