There are many solar panels available in Australia, but some of the best ones according to various sources are:
- SunPower Maxeon : These panels have a 40-year product and performance warranty, an efficiency of up to 22.5%, and a degradation rate of only 12% after 40 years.
- REC Alpha Pure Series: These panels have a 25-year product and performance warranty, an efficiency of up to 22.2%, and a degradation rate of only 8% after 25 years.
- Canadian Solar HiHero: These panels have a 25-year product and a 30-year performance warranty, an efficiency of up to 22.8%, and a degradation rate of only 11% after 30 years.
- Jinko Tiger Neo (N-Type): These panels have a 25-year product and a 30-year performance warranty, an efficiency of up to 22.2%, and a degradation rate of only 13% after 30 years.
- Solarwatt Vision Pure: These panels have a 30-year product and performance warranty, an efficiency of up to 20.7%, and a degradation rate of only 13% after 30 years.
How much do these panels cost?
Cost of solar panels in Australia
The cost of solar panels in Australia depends on various factors, such as the size, type, quality and location of the system. However, according to some sources, the average cost of solar panels in Australia is around $0.93 per watt. This means that a typical 6kW system would cost between $4,000 and $6,000, and a 10kW system would cost between $7,500 and $10,500. Of course, these are approximate figures and the actual cost may vary depending on the specific products and installers you choose. You may also be eligible for some government rebates or incentives that can reduce the upfront cost of your solar system.
Government rebate for solar panels in Australia
There are different government rebates and incentives for solar panels in Australia, depending on the state or territory you live in and the type and size of your system. However, some of the common ones are:
- Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): This is a federal scheme that provides a financial incentive for installing small-scale renewable energy systems such as rooftop solar. You can receive this incentive by claiming Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which are issued based on the expected power generation of your system until 2030. The price of STCs varies according to market conditions, but you can usually sell or assign them to your installer or retailer for a discount or cash payment.
- Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs): This is another federal scheme that pays you for the excess electricity that your solar system exports to the grid. The rate of FiTs depends on your state or territory, your electricity retailer and your contract. FiTs can help you reduce your electricity bills and earn some income from your solar system.
- State or Territory Rebates: Some states or territories also offer additional rebates or subsidies for solar panels or batteries, such as the South Australia Home Battery Scheme, the Victorian Solar Homes Program, the ACT Next Generation Energy Storage Grants and the Sustainable Household Scheme, and the Queensland Interest-Free Loans for Solar and Storage. These rebates can vary in eligibility criteria, application process and amount.
To find out more about the specific rebates and incentives that apply to you, you can visit the Federal Government’s energy rebates webpage or contact your local government or electricity retailer.
Benefits of installing a battery with solar panels
Installing a battery with solar panels can have several benefits, such as:
- Energy independence: You don’t have to rely as much on your utility or the grid for your electricity needs. You can use the stored solar energy whenever you want, even during a blackout.
- Reduce carbon footprint: You get to use all of the clean solar energy your panels produce, instead of drawing power from the grid that may be generated from fossil fuels. This reduces your greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact.
- Quiet backup power: Solar batteries provide you with backup power when the grid goes down, without making any noise or emitting any fumes. Unlike conventional gas generators, solar batteries are silent and safe.
- Electric bill savings: You can almost double how much solar you use by storing the excess electricity in a battery and using it later. This reduces your dependence on the grid and lowers your electricity bills. You may also be eligible for some incentives or rebates for installing a battery.