Australia, the land of sunshine, offers homeowners a perfect opportunity to harness the power of the sun and reap the benefits of solar energy. While installing a solar panel system is a fantastic step towards a sustainable future, there are ways to maximise your solar investment and ensure you get the most out of it financially and environmentally. This article explores key solar investment tips for Australian homeowners to boost their return on investment (ROI).
Harnessing the power of sunlight: Choosing the right system size
The first step to maximising your solar investment is determining the ideal system size for your needs. An undersized system will need more electricity to meet your demands, limiting the cost savings. Conversely, an oversized system might incur unnecessary upfront costs without providing significant additional benefits.
Here’s how to find the sweet spot:
- Analyse your electricity bills: Look at your past year’s electricity usage, particularly focusing on peak consumption hours. This data provides valuable insights into your household’s energy requirements.
- Seek professional advice: Consult with reputable solar installers who can assess your energy usage patterns and recommend an optimal system size.
- Consider future needs: Are you planning to add an electric vehicle (EV) or upgrade appliances? Factor in this potential increase in energy consumption when determining system size.
Read more about:
- Finding the Perfect Fit: Solar System Sizing for a Single-Person Home
- Finding the Solar Sweet Spot: Choosing the Right Solar System Sizing for a Working Couple with an EV
- Finding the Right Fit: Solar System Sizing for an Aussie Family of 3 with an EV
- Powering Up Your Aussie Family of 5: A Guide to Solar System Sizing
- Choosing the Right Solar System Sizing for Retired Coupled Australians with EVs
Optimum panel placement: Where sunshine meets solar efficiency
The positioning of your solar panels in Australia significantly impacts their efficiency and, consequently, your solar ROI. Here are some key considerations for optimal panel placement:
- Sun exposure is king: Ideally, panels should face north to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day. In some cases, east or west-facing might be suitable, depending on your specific location.
- Beware of shadows: Shadows cast by chimneys, trees, or neighbouring buildings can significantly reduce solar output. Carefully evaluate your roof space and avoid areas with persistent shade.
- Embrace the tilt: The angle of inclination also plays a crucial role. In Australia, an angle between 15 and 40 degrees is generally recommended to optimise sun exposure throughout the year.
Regular maintenance: Keeping your solar investment clean and green
Like your car, solar panels require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Here’s how to keep your solar investment in top shape:
- Keep it clean: Dust, dirt, and bird droppings can obstruct sunlight and diminish panel efficiency. Schedule regular cleaning, especially during dry seasons, to remove buildup.
- Monitor performance: Modern solar systems have monitoring tools that allow you to track energy production. This helps identify any potential issues like panel degradation or performance dips.
- Professional check-ups: Consider having a qualified technician inspect your system periodically for maintenance needs or potential repairs.
Embrace smart technology and maximising energy efficiency
- Monitor your system performance: Modern solar systems can have smart monitoring tools to track your energy production and consumption in real time. This valuable information helps you identify potential issues with your system’s performance and allows you to adjust your energy usage habits to maximise solar power utilisation.
- Smart meters: These meters provide real-time data on your energy consumption patterns. This allows you to identify areas for reduction and adjust your usage habits to maximise solar power utilisation.
- Smart home integration: Smart thermostats and appliances can be programmed to automatically operate during peak sunlight hours when solar energy is readily available.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: Solar power generation is most effective when coupled with a focus on reducing overall energy consumption. Consider replacing older, inefficient appliances with newer models with an Energy Star rating. Simple changes like switching to LED lightbulbs can also make a significant impact.
- Solar battery storage: Consider adding a solar battery storage system to your solar setup. This allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and utilise it during peak evening hours when electricity rates are typically higher. While the upfront cost is higher, batteries can significantly improve energy independence and cost savings in the long run.
Use our easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.
Beyond the panels
- Battery backup: Consider adding a battery storage system to your solar setup. This allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it at night or during peak grid demand. Batteries can significantly improve your energy independence from the grid and allow you to benefit from feed-in tariff programs that offer higher rates for electricity delivered during peak times.
- Electric vehicle synergy: Think beyond your home. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) presents a fantastic opportunity to pair your solar investment with an eco-friendly transportation solution. By charging your EV with solar-powered electricity, you can significantly reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and further enhance the environmental benefits of your solar investment.
- Future-proofing: While upfront costs are a factor, consider investing in high-quality solar panels and inverters. These will deliver better efficiency and a longer lifespan, ultimately contributing to a higher ROI over time. Look for warranties covering performance and product defects for added peace of mind.
Ready to upgrade your solar systems and take your energy savings to the next level? Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery or solar inverters with Energy Matters.
Maximise solar ROI through financial considerations
- Consider financing options: The upfront cost of a solar system can be a barrier for some homeowners. Explore financing options offered by solar companies or lenders. Many schemes allow you to spread the cost of your system over several years, making solar power more accessible.
- Factor in maintenance costs: Solar panels require minimal maintenance, but regular cleaning and occasional inspections are essential to ensure optimal performance. Factor these costs into your overall ROI calculation.
- Take advantage of government solar incentives: The Australian government offers various rebates and initiatives to encourage solar power adoption. Research the available incentives in your state or territory, such as the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and state-specific rebates.
To find the most up-to-date information and applicable rebates, check our pages.
Additional tips for long-term success
- Understand your feed-in tariff: The rate at which your electricity retailer will compensate you for any excess solar energy you export back to the grid. Negotiate a competitive feed-in tariff to maximise the financial benefits of your solar power generation.
- Choose a reputable installer: Do your research and select a qualified and experienced solar installer with a strong track record in the industry. Look for accredited companies and positive customer reviews for the Clean Energy Council (CEC).
Energy Matters has been a leader in the renewable energy industry since 2005 and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence. With Energy Matters, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on solar energy. We only work with reputable solar firms with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solar systems.
Conclusion: A brighter future with solar
By following these tips, Australian homeowners can maximise their solar investment and enjoy the financial and environmental benefits for years. Remember, a solar panel system is a long-term investment, and with careful planning, maintenance, and strategic use, you can ensure it delivers a significant return on your investment while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Ready to go solar? Get an instant assessment
To find out how much a solar system with storage or even an EV charger will cost, try our easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator! It will generate performance data and possible cost savings.
We can forward your information to 3 trusted local installers in your area to obtain free, no-obligation solar quotes.
Find out how much you can expect to pay for solar
Ready to find out more? Get FREE quotes for solar, batteries + more
*Prices quoted are to be used as a guide only and do not factor in state and other rebates and incentives. Includes STC discount.
Our Energy Matters CEO, Roshan Ramnarain, will feature stunning homes installed with the latest solar technology every Saturday at 5:00 p.m. on Open Homes Australia on the 9Life channel. Be sure to watch this show; you won’t want to miss it!
