Frequently Asked Questions
Is solar worthwile?
In almost all cases on almost all houses the answer is yes!
The increase in efficiency of panels going up, meaning more power in a smaller area, and the prices coming down there still isn't a better investment out there.
With payback periods as little as 3 years and ROI as large as 400% over the life of the system there is no time like now to buy solar.
Is solar safe?
When it's installed correctly and by professionals then yes.
It's important to note that the safety of solar PV systems can be considered just like any other electrical component in your home. If professionally installed, with high quality components, a solar PV system is perfectly safe.
What is the solar rebate?
The solar panel rebate is a financial incentive for homeowners to buy solar panels.
It’s given as a ‘discount’ on the upfront cost of the solar system and installation.
This discount is in the form of STCs (Small scale Technology Certificates) which can be claimed by the solar retailer or homeowner
Only solar installed by a CEC acreddited installer is eligible for STCs
Will the solar rebate end any time soon?
Despite what you may occasionally see on tv, in the paper and online, there are no plans for the solar Rebate, or STC scheme, to end anytime soon.
The solar rebate is designed to be gradually phased out over a 15 year period - so for the next 14 years, the rebate will drop by approximately 7% per year so now is as good a time as any to invest.
Will I still get an electricity bill?
That depends on scenario and the roof space available.
At the end of the day solar is the start but you will still need to be mindful of your usage.
The key to tiny bills is a combination of solar and being energy efficient.
Ask us about upgrading to more energy efficient products in the home.
Are solar panels hail resistant?
Good quality solar panels are made from tempered glass and as such should be able to resist hail stones on most occasions.
However, a big hailstone travelling at speed will smash even the best solar panel, so our advice is to
inform your home and contents insurance provider that you have solar,
include your solar system in your policy & confirm that hail damage is included.
My home doesn't face north, is an east or west facing roof worthwile?
Absolutely. The times you generate power will just be different.
As the Sun rises it comes up from the East. That means an Eastern facing roof will generate power from much earlier. The opposite can be said for a western facing roof which will generate power later into the afternoon and evening.
In a lot of ways an east west split will work perfectly for most people as it will give a steady amount of energy across the longest period of time through the day.
The best solution is to get a quality monitoring system that monitors both production and consumption so you can see where you are generating power and adjust your consumption around it as much as possible.
Ask us about Solar Analytics consumption monitoring.
Do I need to clean my solar panels?
Realistically no. They will clean off with rain over time so they don't need to be cleaned.
The exceptions are if you are in an area that is especially dry, if your panels are flat
or if you are in a dusty area (ie: close to construction)
Even then a blast with a hose will be fine or call a window cleaner as most are now trained to clean panels.