While installing solar is a sure-fire way to cut your electricity costs, not everyone is motivated by the cash-saving benefits. For some, it’s about being less dependant on their energy company, and for others, it’s about doing their bit to help the environment.
In this week’s episode of Open Homes Australia (OHA), we meet Jim, a homeowner in Sydney’s picturesque suburb of Hunter’s Hill. Jim has recently installed a 7kW Longi solar system on his newly-renovated waterfront property. While keen to control his electricity costs, his primary motivation was to reduce his family’s carbon footprint.
Keep reading to learn more about Jim’s journey and how Longi Solar has helped him and his family meet their energy goals.
Also, catch the latest episode of Road to Zero featuring OHA host James Treble below.
Newly-Renovated Waterfront Stunner
It’s episode 6 of OHA and we’re in for a treat.
Renowned Australian interior designer James Treble and Energy Matter’s CEO Rosh Ramnarain head to Hunter’s Hill, Sydney, to meet with homeowner Jim.
Just 9km north-west of Sydney’s CBD, Hunter’s Hill boasts some of the most beautiful property in they city. Big homes with stunning outlooks along the peninsula – it really doesn’t get much better than this.
Jim’s home is no exception. Recently renovated, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom property features soaring ceilings, open living spaces and natural light throughout. With hardwood floors and a neutral colour palette, the home has a modern classic feel with a touch of luxury.
From almost every room in the house, there is a view of the water – it’s truly breathtaking.
Like most homes in the area, Jim’s house is big. And with big homes come big electricity bills and carbon footprints.
James asked Jim about how this affects his family.
“All of that natural light is beautiful in the home but when you’ve got a home with all of these large spaces and big voids, I can presume it can also add issues for heating and cooling the house?”.
Jim agreed, saying that when it came time to renovate, he started thinking about not only saving money but also how to reduce his family’s impact on the environment.
Installing a rooftop solar system was the obvious solution.
Not knowing where to start, Jim reached out to Rosh, whom he had previously met at a home ideas show in Darling Harbour a few years ago. Roshan helped connect him to a trusted local solar installer. My Energy Group, sourced from Energy Matter’s partner network. My Energy Group worked with Jim to understand his energy goals and set him up with a 7 kW Longi solar system.
As the only Tier 1 AAA-rated module supplier (PV Tech Bankability Rating), Longi has built a reputation for quality, reliability and performance.
The Longi solar panels selected are extremely efficient, meaning more power can be generated from fewer panels. The panels are orientated primarily North-facing, maximising the system’s output.
“It’s an absolutely perfect system to reduce electricity bills” said Rosh.
While the system is a great selling point of the home that reduces the cost of living in it, Jim was adamant that not everyone thinks about solar in terms of the money they can save.
“Some people don’t really care about their electricity bill. We decided to do it because we wanted to use environmentally-friendly power,” he said.
When it comes to solar it’s a true win-win – not only will you save money on your electricity bills, but you’ll also be doing your bit to help the environment.
Watch the full episode here on 9Now.
Road to Zero Episode 9: James Treble
James Treble is an Australian icon in the world of interior design, having graced our screens for over 11 years. Host of award-winning reality show, Renovate or Rebuild and presenter of Open Homes Australia, James brings over three decades of experience in the building and design industry. There’s no denying his passion (and expertise) for houses, colour and good design.
But did you know that James is also passionate about sustainability? He’s a big advocate for using recycled materials, energy-efficient appliances and – you guessed it – solar power!
In this episode of Road to Zero, Energy Matter’s CEO Rosh sits down with James to talk about his career journey from real estate agent to qualified designer to celebrated TV host, and how he is using his platform to promote comfortable, healthy and sustainable living.
The full podcast can be viewed via the video linked above or streamed for free on Spotify here.
Open Homes Australia: Season 5 Airing Now
When you buy a home, you’re not just buying a roof over your head – you’re buying a place to call your own, a sanctuary from the outside world. Your home should be a reflection of your unique style and personality, and it should be a space that you’re proud to come home to at the end of a long day.
Here at Energy Matters, we believe that the best homes are designed with sustainability front of mind – not only will a sustainably-designed home keep you comfortable year-round, but it will save you thousands in energy bills while also helping the environment.
Energy Matters is thrilled to be partnering with Open Homes Australia for its 5th season.
This season continues the tradition of showcasing incredible Australian homes, breath-taking designs, and sustainable choices that will be sure to inspire and awe you. Featuring some of Australia’s most recognisable designers and creatives, as well as many from your favourite seasons of The Block and Renovate or Rebuild – this is a show you don’t want to miss!
Catch the next episode on Saturday April 23rd @ 4:30pm on 9Life!
