Guide to buying solar panels in Queensland.
Queensland's abundant natural sunshine makes it an ideal place for harnessing solar energy, with many homeowners eager to reduce high energy bills and switch to cleaner energy sources. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), electricity prices rose by 2% for the year to March, but without the federal government’s Energy Bill Relief, the increase would have been much higher at 17%.
It's no surprise that solar panels are growing in popularity, with almost 15% of Australian households having installed them. In 2021, energy generation from renewable sources in Australia increased by 23%. Switching to solar power helps Australia meet its ambitious climate change targets, with the federal government aiming for a 43% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. Although the upfront investment in a solar system can be significant, it is typically recouped within two to seven years. Here’s what you should know before buying.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
When sunlight hits a solar panel, it is absorbed and converted into direct current (DC) electricity. A solar inverter then converts this into alternating current (AC) power for home use, a process known as the photovoltaic (PV) effect.
Leading Solar Power Brands
Top solar power brands in Australia include Longi, Jinko Solar, LG Solar, and Hyundai Australia.
Types of Solar Panels
Most home solar panels are either monocrystalline or multicrystalline. Monocrystalline panels, usually black, are more efficient, while multicrystalline panels, typically dark blue, may have better temperature tolerance. Panels are classified into three tiers, with Tier 1 being the highest quality, often costing 10% to 30% more than Tier 2 and Tier 3 panels.
Determining the Number of Panels
Solar panels vary in size and power output, with a higher power rating meaning fewer panels are needed. For larger roofs, it may be more economical to install more lower-efficiency panels.
Choosing the Best Solar Panel System
Consider the following when choosing a system: * CEC Accreditation: Ensure the installer is Clean Energy Council (CEC)-accredited. * Reviews: Check reputable reviews online. * Standards Compliance: Verify that the system meets Australian and international standards. * Payback Time: Typically between two to seven years. * Cost: Estimated costs vary, e.g., $5,500–$9,000 for a 6.6kW system. * Company Reputation: Choose a reputable company, preferably one following the CEC’s code of conduct. * Warranty: Ensure comprehensive warranty coverage.
Solar Rebates
Two main incentives are small-scale technology certificates (STCs) and feed-in tariffs (FiTs). Check the government’s energy website for local schemes. Additional rebates and loans are available in some states.
