Discover how solar energy is driving savings and a greener future.
Have you jumped on the solar bandwagon yet? We know that Australia has the highest take up of residential solar installation globally, largely driven by the introduction of government renewable energy targets in the mid 2000’s and an initial push to incentivise installations via high solar feed-in-tariffs.
Twenty years ago solar wasn’t even a topic of conversation in Australia, but times have changed, and so has the approach to renewable energy. Today, solar panels are not considered a new technology and for most homeowners, choosing solar is a decision that is weighed up like upgrading a kitchen or other improvements to their property. The motivation for adding solar is often based on energy savings, but with the decrease in the feed-in-tariffs are there other points to ponder?
We’ve listed a few key points below to help you get a better understanding of why solar is still the most popular choice of renewable energy.
1) Renewables are the future
By 2050, 50% of the world’s population is projected to use solar power. The reason for this is that we (as a society), are now more conscious of our environmental impact. Our transition from the industrial to technological age has illustrated the need to become less dependent on harmful fossil fuels and more dependent on renewable technologies. Solar’s increased popularity in Australia has highlighted the associated benefits below.
2) Reduce your electricity bill
Let’s face it, looking to save some extra cash on your bills isn’t going to hurt anyone. However, it is important to familiarise yourself with your bill and learn what to expect when using solar power. There are three important factors to consider when reviewing potential savings with solar. These include:
1. Your overall usage at home (and when your household uses it the most)
2. The size of your solar system
3. The amount of surplus power you could generate by supplying it to the grid (otherwise known as a feed-in tariff.)
If you’d like to install a solar system, head to our solar and battery solutions page to learn more about the solar option that is right for you
3) Increase your home's value
Not only is solar a viable source of renewable energy, but it has the added benefit of increasing the value of your home. Adding solar installation to your new home means not having to worry about organising an installation or forking out extra cash to get a brand-new solar system after already getting a new home loan. For those adding solar to existing homes, it is easy to do and improves the property’s value. Check out our blog on this.
4) Environmentally sustainable
A frequently asked question is “what about the solar panel materials? Are they sustainable?” The answer is yes. The materials used for installing solar panels are non-toxic and recyclable, meaning that you can have a clear conscience knowing that the panels on your roof are doing their job and can be reused if you decide to upgrade your panels in the future. Also, solar panels do not create noise pollution.
5) Government schemes
If you’re looking at solar as an option and want to know if there’s any financial incentives, then you’ve come to the right place. Through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, the Australian Government is giving eligible families and homeowners the opportunity to receive a rebate. If you’re eligible, a tradable certificate will be issued to you for any associated solar PV systems.
If you think you’re ready to make the move to solar and would like to get a better insight into some considerations that are involved, then you can download our 7-point preparation checklist here.
