Its now estimated that well over one million Australian homes are using rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate clean electricity for their daily power requirements. If you are in the market for a solar power system, then there are a few points to consider.
Listed below are some tips for purchasing and installing solar PV for your home.
1: Know your solar product
Before you decide to install solar PV, it is essential to determine if solar is a viable solution for your home. How much solar generating sunlight does your roof receive? What is the best size and type of system? Are there any government incentives available in your area?
2: Contact your power company
A solar power system can work against the old business model of large fossil fuel companies and power utilities, and these companies don't want consumers to generate their electricity because it eats into their profits. If you are installing solar and intend to remain connected to the grid its advisable to get in touch with your power company and find out:
- Is introducing solar going to affect your current rates?
- The feed-in tariff rate they offer. The feed-in tariff is the amount a power company pays you for excess power generated by your solar power system.
3: Choose an accredited solar installer and design a PV system
Make sure you shop around when buying solar, take the time to consult with a few different retailers and installers. Get multiple Solar Quotes to compare. Use the Internet to research and compare solar panel and inverter brands.
Make sure the supplier you choose is a Clean Energy Council Approved Solar Retailer.
A good source of solar installer and component reviews can be found here SolarQuotes.com.au.
4: Sign a solar contract
After you have chosen your system kW size, price and type, and accepted the Solar Quote, your solar PV retailer, installer or designer will provide you with a contract. Read the agreement carefully before you make the final decision.
5: Solar PV system installation
Your chosen solar PV installer or retailer will come to your home and proceed with the system installation. There are three necessary parts to most installs. 1 - mounting the solar PV panels in the optimal position, 2 - installing the power inverter, charge controller or deep cycle batteries, 3 - installing the cabling connecting the panels to the inverter.
6: Connecting the solar PV system to the grid
The connection from your homes solar PV system to the power grid is usually carried out by your electricity company, in most cases, your solar retailer or installer can make this request for you on your behalf. The connection process can be different for each state.
7: Enjoy the benefits of owning a solar power system!
Bingo! You're done, now its time to start saving on those costly power bills. Keep your solar panels clean and follow the maintenance schedule set out by your solar installer. If you have chosen an accredited installer or retailer, chosen quality solar components and continue to maintain your system you should have many years of trouble-free clean electricity.
For more information about installing a solar PV system including expert advice and system, prices visit SolarQuotes.com.au.
