5 things to know about going solar in your home

|
Published in August 2018
Share:

Index
1.57 million domestic business listings.
Need to get a professional on the job? Yellow Pages has it covered. Click to find a local architects that’s right for you.

5 things to know about going solar in your home

in Articles Hub
Published in August 2018
Share:

If you’re reading this article, you’re probably looking for a more sustainable approach to keeping your lights on. If you’re looking to lessen your carbon footprint, then solar energy could be your perfect match.

Before you take the plunge, here are 5 things you should know before going solar in your home.

1. Do the sums – how much do solar panels cost?

Are you wondering how much solar panels cost? Prices will vary depending on the type of system you install, but for a 3kW solar system, you’re looking to pay around $6,500. For a smaller system, you could spend $3,500 or more.

With the government rebate, you’re looking to save on average around $650 for each installed kW. It’s a good idea to contact your local solar power provider to get a quote and find out how much a system may cost you.

2. Solar panels can be super cost-effective

Purchasing and installing solar panels is quite affordable today, especially if you qualify for a rebate through the Australian government. Around 10 years ago, it was said that you’d start to see a return on investment (ROI) at the ten-year mark, but with today’s technologies, you should be able to see ROI within four years.

Solar Energy

3. You might qualify for a renewable energy rebate

Before you appoint a solar power installation expert, it’s a good idea to find out if you qualify for a benefit under the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme.

Installing certain systems will make you eligible for what’s called a small-scale technology certificate (STCs). Households who qualify can redeem their STCs by assigning it to the installer they choose to get a discount.

4. Solar panels don’t just live on roofs

When we think of solar energy, we often think of solar panels sitting on rooftops. However, if this isn’t really an option you can install them on awnings, fences, poles or mount them to the ground if your property is big enough.

You can even use a pole mount, which kind of looks like a carport, so it’s always an option if you want dual functionality in your driveway.

If your reason for not wanting panels on your roof is because of how they look, you can opt for solar tiles. The good news is, as solar technology advances, so does its design, which means that you can now purchase solar tiles that look a lot like traditional roof tiles.

Solar Shingles

5. Solar energy can be harnessed in many different ways

When it comes to solar power, there are plenty of ways that you can take advantage of the sun’s rays. Apart from using solar panels to power a home, there’s also solar hot water, which tends to make up around one quarter of a home’s electricity bill.

You can also use solar to power your outdoor lighting, and it’s as simple as embedding small stand-alone solar lamps into your garden to light up garden beds or paths.

If you really wanted to, you could even purchase a solar charger for your smartphone it’s entirely possible that you could live life without a dead phone battery ever again.

5. Hiring the right solar technician

Whether you’re after solar panels in Melbourne, Sydney or Far North Queensland, one thing remains true: it’s essential to ensure anyone you hire to do the job is qualified and experienced.

You can start by speaking to local solar technicians. We recommend you get around three quotes – this will give you the best chance of hiring someone who will install your solar system safely and correctly. If you come across an installer who’s accredited by the Clean Energy Council, that’s generally a good sign as well.

 

1.57 million domestic business listings.
Need to get a professional on the job? Yellow Pages has it covered. Click to find a local architects that’s right for you.
Did you find this article helpful? Tell us what you want to read more of!
Start survey >

Cost Guides

How much does concreting cost? [2025]
Colorbond fencing prices: A cost guide [2025]
How much does tree removal cost? [2025]
How much do driving lessons cost? [2025]
How much do gardeners charge per hour? [2025]
How much does paving cost per m2? [2025]
How much does ducted air conditioning cost? [2025]
Dog boarding cost guide [2025]
Windscreen chip repair cost guide [2025]
How much does a car service cost? [2025]
How much does landscaping cost? [2025]
How much does it cost to paint a car? [2025]
See all cost guides

Get free quotes from professionals near you.