Upgrading Your Solar System: A Smart Move for Perth Homeowners
Introduction
Solar energy has revolutionised the way Perth homeowners power their homes, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution to rising electricity costs. If you already have a solar installation in Perth, you might be wondering about the benefits of upgrading your system. Most of the time, systems that are working are sufficient and produce enough energy for their needs. However, systems do deteriorate over time and require regular maintenance checks to ensure the system is running efficiently. If your system is old, using outdated technology and not providing enough power then it may be time to look at upgrading. In this blog, we’ll explore why upgrading your solar setup can be a smart move, how it can save you money, and the options available to futureproof your investment.
Why Upgrade Your Solar System?
Increased Efficiency and Performance
Technology in the solar industry is constantly evolving, leading to more efficient solar panels and inverters. Upgrading your solar installation in Perth means you can take advantage of these advancements, ensuring your system operates at peak performance and you gain the most out of the new systems.
Higher Efficiency Panels: Modern solar panels, such as those from our carefully selected partnerships which are currently REC, Trina Solar, AIKO are more efficient, meaning they can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight in the same amount of roof space. This is advantageous to those roofs that have limited space or multiple roof faces.
Advanced Inverters: Upgrading to a more advanced inverter, like those from Fronius or Sigenergy, can improve the conversion of DC to AC power, maximising your system’s output. Inverters can now come with upgradeable to hybrid options which means that you are not as restricted for installing batteries in the future.
Save Money on Energy Bills
One of the primary reasons for upgrading your solar system is the potential savings on your energy bills. More efficient systems generate more power, reducing your reliance on grid electricity and thus lowering your monthly bills.
Reduced Energy Costs: With a higher output, you’ll draw less power from the grid, leading to significant savings. According to the Clean Energy Council, households can save up to $1,500 annually by switching to solar .
Increased Feed-in Tariff: By generating more excess energy, you can take advantage of the feed-in tariff with Synergy. As long as your inverter is 5kW or below, you can earn money for the surplus electricity you feed back into the grid. This feed-in tariff is known as Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme or DEBS for short.
Future proofing Your Solar Investment
Battery Storage Options
Upgrading your system by adding a battery to your solar system can significantly enhance its functionality. With battery storage, you can store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods, increasing your energy independence.
Energy Independence: Reduce your reliance on the grid and protect yourself from rising electricity prices. Protect yourself from the volatility of rising electricity prices by generating your own power. Western Australia has experienced an annual 2.5 – 4.5% increase in electricity prices over the past decade, impacting household budgets.
Backup Power: Ensure you have a reliable power source during outages. With back up, battery and solar power system, you ensure a continuous power supply, even during unexpected grid outages. In Perth, power outages have become more frequent due to extreme weather events and infrastructure issues. Knowing you have a dependable energy source provides security and confidence in the face of power interruptions. For instance, during the January 2021 storms, over 30,000 homes in Perth lost power. Having a solar system with battery backup could prevent such disruptions.
System Monitoring and Management
Upgrading your solar system can also include advanced monitoring and management tools. These tools allow you to track your system’s performance in real-time, identify issues, and optimise energy usage.
Real-time Monitoring: By installing a Smart Energy Meter, you can keep an eye on your system’s performance and address any issues promptly. It provides real time data, showing you how much your system is producing, how much energy your property is consuming and how much you are importing or exporting back to the grid. This data provides invaluable insight to sizing up batteries in the future and can give you detailed usage which helps determine if batteries are worthwhile.
Energy Management: Optimising energy consumption is key to achieving both cost savings and efficiency in your home or business. Implementing timers and delay starts for heavy electrical appliances can significantly reduce peak demand charges. Additionally, using solar energy during peak production times can lead to substantial energy savings. Simple measures like sealing leaks, using LED lighting, and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can also contribute to a more sustainable energy management strategy.
Benefits of Upgrading of Solar
Environmental Impact
By upgrading your solar installation in Perth, you’re not only saving money but also contributing to a healthier environment. More efficient systems reduce your carbon footprint, helping combat climate change.
Reduced Carbon Emissions: In Perth, the installation of solar panels is a smart move towards sustainability and energy independence. With Perth’s abundant sunshine, solar systems can generate significant energy, potentially covering most or all of a household’s power needs. This not only leads to reduced electricity bills but also lessens the environmental impact by lowering reliance on coal and gas. Moreover, the Australian government’s report highlights that households with solar panels can save an average of 1.5 to 2 tonnes of carbon emissions each year, contributing to a cleaner and greener future.
Sustainable Living: Perth is making significant strides towards sustainability with initiatives like the City of Perth’s largest solar project, which is expected to save around $400,000 annually on electricity costs and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 114 tonnes each year. This is equivalent to removing about 50 cars from the road. Such efforts are vital as they align with Australia’s broader commitment to a greener future, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions significantly by 2030. With solar energy, residents can play a direct role in this transition, fostering a cleaner environment for generations to come.
Increased Property Value
Homes with upgraded solar systems can see an increase in property value. Prospective buyers often look for homes with energy-efficient features, and a modern solar system can be a significant selling point. For more information we have written another blog on this: Saving Money, Increasing Value
Attractive to Buyers: Modern solar systems are indeed becoming a significant selling point in today’s real estate market. They not only contribute to a home’s energy efficiency and environmental friendliness but also often increase a property’s value. Research indicates that homes with solar installations tend to sell at higher prices and more quickly than those without such features. This trend reflects a growing consumer awareness and demand for sustainable living options, making solar systems a wise investment for homeowners looking to enhance their property’s appeal and marketability.
Higher Property Value: Increase the resale value of your home with an efficient and future proof solar setup.
High-Quality Installations
At Australis Solar, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality solar installations. Since our establishment in 2008, we have been committed to delivering top-notch service and reliable solar solutions. Our partnerships with leading manufacturers like Trina Solar and Fronius and more ensure that we offer the best components for your solar upgrade.
– Expert Installers: Our team of experienced professionals ensures that your solar upgrade is done to the highest standards.
– Quality Assurance: We use only the best components from reputable manufacturers to ensure the longevity and performance of your system.
How to Upgrade Your Solar System
Assess Your Current System
The first step in upgrading your solar installation in Perth is to assess your current system. Determine its age, efficiency, and performance. This assessment will help identify areas for improvement.
System Audit: A solar system audit is a comprehensive review of your current solar energy setup to evaluate its efficiency and performance. It typically involves analysing your energy consumption patterns, inspecting the physical components of the system, and assessing the potential for solar energy generation. This process can help identify areas of inefficiency, estimate cost savings, and ensure safety compliance. For a detailed audit, it’s recommended to involve professionals who can provide a thorough analysis and actionable insights.
Professional Consultation: For professional consultation on solar energy solutions, Australis Solar is a reputable company that offers custom-designed solar systems tailored to individual consumption needs. With a team of Clean Energy Council accredited designers and installers, we provide quality service and have a strong track record since our foundation in 2008. Our approach includes consultations, designs, energy consumption analysis, and after-care, ensuring a comprehensive service for both residential and commercial customers.
Choose the Right Upgrade Options
Once you’ve assessed your system, explore the various upgrade options available. Whether it’s more efficient panels, a new inverter, or adding battery storage, choose upgrades that align with your energy goals and budget. New technology is released all the time, so it is worth keeping up with research and listening out for those new ground breaking products with higher efficiency and emergent companies like Sigenergy.
Tailored Solutions: Australis Solar provides custom solar energy solutions, ensuring that each system is designed to meet the unique consumption needs of our clients. With a team of Clean Energy Council accredited designers and installers, we offer quality service and products, including the latest solar PV panels, inverters, and battery storage systems. Our commitment to industry best practices mean that clients receive not only a tailored, bespoke system but also comprehensive support throughout the installation process and beyond. For those in Perth and surrounding areas, Australis Solar is a reliable choice for those looking to invest in solar energy.
Quality Components: Selecting high-quality components is crucial for ensuring long-term performance and reliability. Australis Solar’s commitment to working only with quality products backed by excellent warranties reflects a dedication to customer satisfaction and product durability. This approach not only fosters trust in the brand but also minimises the risk of future issues, which can save time and resources in the long run. It’s a wise strategy that prioritises the longevity and dependability of the products we offer.
Conclusion
Upgrading your solar system is a smart move for Perth homeowners looking to maximise their investment in renewable energy. With advancements in technology, you can enhance your system’s efficiency, save money on energy bills, and contribute to a sustainable future. Whether you’re considering battery storage options, advanced monitoring tools, or more efficient panels, upgrading your solar installation in Perth is a step towards future proofing your home and enjoying the numerous benefits of solar energy.
If you’re ready to explore upgrade options, contact Australis Solar today for a consultation. Our experts can help you design a system that meets your needs and ensures you get the most out of your solar investment.
References
1. Clean Energy Council. [Switching to Solar]
2. Synergy. [Feed-in Tariff]
3. Australian Government. [Solar Panel Benefits]