Making the switch to solar power is a big decision, especially with the up-front cost and the logistics of installing solar panels.
It’s natural to wonder if it’s all worth it, but trust us, it absolutely is!
If you’ve been considering installing solar panels, then you’ve probably already asked a few questions.
We’ve answered the 3 most common ones here, starting with…
Is it worth installing solar panels?
Absolutely.
Especially in Australia.
We have some of the highest energy bills in the world, and with the coal and oil industry dying and the current grid system falling apart, those bills are only going to get higher in the years to come.
By making the switch to solar, you are becoming self-reliant on your electricity needs, so when the energy companies increase their prices by another 20%, you won’t feel it as badly as someone without solar.
Not only will you avoid future price-hikes, but even if costs stayed the same you will still be on track to save thousands of dollars in the long run.
The biggest concern for residents is the outright cost of installing a solar PV system.
The cost of installing solar panels is at an all-time low, so the sooner you make the switch, the sooner you start saving money.
If your budget restricts you from paying a lump sum in the beginning, then we have finance options available through a “green loan”.
This allows you to borrow as much as you need and pay it back only as and when you can afford it.
But with the money you save through the system, you’ll have the loan paid off in no time!
What exactly do I need?
There are three things that make up a good solar PV system.
Panels
The solar panels you choose largely depend on your budget and finding that balance between cost and efficiency.
Obviously, the more efficient panels tend to be more expensive, but it’s not just about cost.
How many panels you need is also a factor, as well as robustness, especially in our harsh Aussie climate.
Buying solar panels is a long-term commitment, so it pays to get it right.
Inverter
The inverter is responsible for optimising the amount of power coming out of the system, and more importantly, the quality and safety of the electricity generated.
Solar Inverters take the raw, DC electricity created by the panels and convert it to safer AC electricity, allowing it to be used in household appliances.
As the “brains” of the photovoltaic system, solar inverters play a crucial role in how the system performs.
Some panels, like the SolarEdge, have the inverter built-in, thus cutting out the middleman.
Battery
A solar battery is an additional option when it comes to a PV system, but one we think is worth it.
A simplistic comparison is, they are no different than the batteries in your remote control, only bigger.
The difference is, you are the one charging them from your solar panels.
Without a battery to capture the electricity you generate, any surplus is sent back into the grid, which you are then compensated for.
If you have a solar battery, then all the energy your system has generated is kept where it belongs – with you.
Having a battery means you’ll never be without electricity, whether it’s during a blackout, overcast, or at night-time.
Are solar panels difficult to maintain?
The beauty of solar panels is their simplicity.
They have no moving parts and no power source – once installed, you just leave them to do their thing!
In fact, just a minimal amount of effort will ensure you get the optimal sunlight conversion for the longest time possible.
Quick, cursive inspections of your panels to check for damage, debris, or overhanging branches will be enough to make sure everything’s okaybright eart, and a good hosing down once a month should be enough to clean them
If you live in a more dusty, dry environment, then a good wash with soap and water is needed every six weeks or so, and that’s it!
Panels now come with a 25-year warranty with some manufacturers, so if there are any issues, then you’re covered.
We can help you make the switch
It’s a big commitment to switch to solar power, so we understand why many people are anxious about making the leap.
That’s why we are here to help answer any questions you may have about the process.
We have been in the solar business for decades, installing solar PV systems for both residential and commercial properties.
Our highly skilled engineers are fully accredited and licensed by the Clean Energy Council (CEC), so you can rest assured that you are working with experienced professionals.
Fantastic and very professional job by the guys who came to install our Solar. Quality is great and they were on time which is also good, so didn’t have to wait around. Very friendly and clean up after themselves. Would highly recommend them for solar installation or any electrical work needed to be done. Thank you for a job well done and will definitely use you again… October 2021 Karen Mahoney
When it comes to which type of PV system you need, then we are happy to offer free, honest advice with no commitment to buy.
As a rule, if you have the budget, then go for it. The system will pay for itself and make you self-reliant on your electricity needs.
If you don’t have the budget to buy upfront, then look at our finance options. The money you save over the next few years will pay it off in no time.
Contact us today if you would like to know more about installing solar panels. Our friendly and expert engineers will be happy to help.
Bright Earth Solar offers a range of exceptional solar products, helping you save money while doing your bit to save the planet. We keep you up to date with new technology, innovation and trends in renewable energy.