What is a solar PV system, and how does it work?
A solar photovoltaic (PV) system uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. The panels consist of many solar cells that generate direct current (DC) electricity when exposed to sunlight. An inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is used to power homes or businesses. Excess electricity can be fed into the grid or stored in a battery for later use.
What are the benefits of installing a solar PV system?
The benefits of installing a solar PV system in Queensland include:
- Reducing electricity bills by generating your own power.
- Access to government rebates and incentives.
- Reducing carbon emissions and contributing to environmental sustainability.
- Abundant sunshine throughout the year maximises solar energy production.
- Potential to sell excess power back to the grid and earn a feed-in tariff.
- Operating your own Virtual Power Plant (VPP) for trading electricity directly into the Australian Energy Market Operator’s trading platform
What size solar PV system is suitable for a typical household?
For an average smaller household in Queensland, a 6.6 kW solar system is considered the minimum. This size can generate enough electricity to meet typical household demands of a small family while also feeding excess power into the grid. The specific size depends on the household’s energy usage, roof space, and budget. An iDeal Solar Star can go through all these details with you in the comfort of your own home.
Are there any government rebates or incentives for solar PV systems in Queensland?
Yes, there are several incentives available:
- Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): This federal government scheme provides financial incentives for installing solar PV systems under 100 kW. The value of the STCs are deducted from the upfront cost of the system.
- Feed-in Tariffs: Energy providers in Queensland offer a feed-in tariff for any excess solar energy you export to the grid.
- Loans or grants for renewable energy installations are available to certain organisations or community groups. An iDeal Solar Star will be able to help in obtaining grants and benefits if your organisation is eligible.
How much do solar PV systems cost in Queensland?
The cost of a solar PV system depends on its size and quality. A typical 6.6 kW system, including installation, can cost between AUD 6,000 and AUD 10,000 after rebates. Higher-quality panels and inverters cost more, but they typically offer better efficiency and longer warranties. Be wary of cheaper systems for below $4,000 as these are generally inferior quality components and likely to fail in under five years.
How much can I save on electricity bills with a solar PV system in Queensland?
The savings depend on the size of the system, electricity usage, and the amount of sunshine your location receives. A 6.6 kW system can typically save you between $1,000 and $2,000 per year, depending on your household’s consumption patterns and feed-in tariffs. Our friendly Solar Stars can sit down with you and calculate exact savings based on your current usage from the comfort of your own home.
What is a feed-in tariff, and how does it work in Queensland?
A feed-in tariff is the rate that energy retailers pay you for any excess electricity your solar PV system generates and exports to the grid. In Queensland, feed-in tariffs vary by energy provider and can range from 5 to 15 cents per kWh. The higher the tariff, the more you can earn for exporting surplus energy. This is a balancing act as often providers offering higher feed-in tariffs will also charge higher consumption rates.
Do I need a battery with my solar PV system?
A battery is not necessary for all solar PV systems, but it can be beneficial if you want to store excess energy for use during the night or in the event of a power outage. Batteries can increase your energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid. However, they add to the overall cost of the system. To find out it a battery is beneficial for your own personal needs, have a chat to one of our friendly Solar Stars.
How much sunshine does Queensland receive, and how does that affect solar energy production?
Queensland is known as the “Sunshine State” and receives an average of 4-6 hours of peak sunlight per day, depending on the season and location. This makes it one of the best places in Australia to install a solar PV system, as the abundant sunshine ensures high energy production year-round.
What maintenance is required for a solar PV system in Queensland?
Solar PV systems are generally low maintenance. Regularly cleaning the panels to remove dirt and debris can help maintain efficiency. It’s also recommended to have the system inspected by a professional every few years to ensure everything is functioning properly, including the inverter and electrical components. Alternately, if you install an iDeal Solar System, our intelligent monitoring software will let us know if anything isn’t functioning as it should and you will receive a call from our friendly support team to troubleshoot any potential issues.
Can solar PV systems be installed on all types of roofs?
Solar PV systems can be installed on most roof types, including tile, metal, and flat roofs. The orientation and pitch of the roof can impact efficiency, with north-facing roofs being ideal in Australia. If your roof is shaded or has limited space, we can offer solutions to optimise your system’s production.
What happens to my solar PV system during cloudy or rainy days?
Solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy or rainy days, but their output will be reduced. Solar PV systems in Queensland typically produce around 15-35% of their capacity on overcast days, depending on the cloud cover. However, the ample sunshine Queensland receives throughout the year compensates for these occasional dips in performance.
How long does it take to install a solar PV system?
The installation of a typical residential solar PV system in Queensland usually takes a day or less but can take up to 3 days, depending on the system size and complexity. This includes mounting the solar panels, installing the inverter, and connecting the system to the grid.
What is the lifespan of a solar PV system?
- Solar panels generally have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, with many manufacturers offering warranties for up to 25 years. Inverters may need to be replaced after 10-15 years, depending on the type and usage. Regular maintenance can help extend the system’s overall lifespan.
- iDeal Solar offer systems featuring 30 year performance guarantees and 30 year panel warranties, coupled with inverters featuring 10 year new-for-old replacement warranties which can be upgraded to 25 years if selected within 30 days of installation.
Is planning permission required to install a solar PV system in Queensland?
In most cases, planning permission is not required for solar PV systems on residential properties in Queensland, as long as the installation meets local council guidelines. However, if you live in a heritage-listed area or are planning a large-scale installation, you may need to seek approval from your local council. You can go over these details when you sit down with your very own Solar Star.
