Lower Electricity Bills

The rate of increase of electricity costs for businesses is skyrocketing every few years. The high cost of electricity prices in Australia has doubled over the past ten years, making them some of the world’s highest rates.

Installing a solar power system on your commercial building will add immediate relief from high electricity costs.

Adding a solar system future-proofs your business and helps safeguard your business from fluctuating electricity costs. Research from the Australian Energy Regulator says that energy consumers will rely on self-generated and stored-energy sources in the coming years as residential and commercial properties drive away from fossil fuels.

Most solar panels come with a 12-year manufacturer warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. So, a tip from our end would be that you ensure the warranty of your solar panel system before purchasing it – we’ll step you through what you need to know about the warranty upon installation.

Government Incentives

Which business does not love receiving some additional profits? Small and medium-sized business can enjoy government incentives when it comes to installing commercial solar power systems. Listing down two main benefits of adding solar power systems in Queensland.

Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCS)

Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCS) are tradable commodities established by the federal government. These certificates are created at their trading price when an energy-saving activity is completed. The certificates are offered to the customer as a form of a rebate.

Feed-In Tariffs

Feed-in tariffs allow small and medium-sized businesses to sell surplus energy back to the grid system. It is an incentive that provides a return on investment for their solar power.

PR and Public Perception

Reports indicate that nearly two-thirds of all Australians believe that climate change is a serious problem. Queenslanders show that 65% believe climate change is a serious threat.

One international study states that one-third of consumers prefer sustainable brands and an online global study demonstrated that millennials list sustainability and environment-friendly options as shopping imperatives.

When you take steps to reduce your carbon footprint, consumers become more drawn to your business – many of us want to support companies who are doing their bit for the planet, and making smart decisions that reduce their impact. There’s no reason you can’t use these as selling points for your business in your marketing.

An Extra Revenue Stream

Make hay while the sun shines. One of the many benefits of living in Queensland, with all of its abundant sunshine, is that at some point you are quite likely to end up with a surplus of energy that your business doesn’t need and won’t use. You can sell this energy back to the grid and have it become an added income stream for your business during the months you don’t need it.

While a smaller system will allow you to sell back unused power to the grid, by installing a larger system, you will have more power at your disposal initially, along with the potential for greater returns when selling back the surplus. This can mean your return on investment comes much sooner, and can even be a profit stream for your business.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are the most recognisable component of any solar electric system. They are made out of silicon crystal ‘cells’, glass, polymer backing, and aluminium. Typically, solar panels are installed on the rooftops of homes and are what make it possible to capture sunlight to turn into DC electricity.

When photons from sunlight collide with the silicon cell in the solar panel, electrons get released. These electrons scatter and move around very quickly. With the help of an electric field, they create energy in the process.

Panels are rated based on their voltage output under ideal performance, and can range from 10 watts all the way up to 300 watts.

Solar Mounting Systems

Without a mount, the panels cannot be installed. Mounting systems are what affix the solar panel to the roof, ground, or pole. The method that is used may either be set by zoning laws or based on the climate of the area the panels are placed in.

Roof mounting is most common for solar systems, especially here in Queensland where we get sun almost all year round; getting above the shadows is the best way to soak in as much of the sun’s rays as possible.

Solar panel mountings can be fixed or tracking. Tracking panels move with the sun from east to west, whereas fixed panels stay in one place. While fixed panels tend to be less expensive to install, their set position may not capture as much light as a tracking panel would.

Battery Pack

There are some instances, such as cloudy days or nights, where solar power cannot be used. Batteries are added to solar power systems so that in instances such as this, homes are not without power. Batteries have to be maintained and replaced over time so it is important to consider the needs of your home when choosing a battery system. Our team can help you determine if it is the right choice for you.

Power Meter

A power meter allows the amount of solar energy used and produced to be measured, as well as the amount of power the solar system sends to the grid. Meters are important for tax implications as well as crediting solar panel owners for their energy addition to the grid.

Electricity Usage at Home

The average Australian household consumes about 18 KiloWatts (kWh) of energy per day, or 5,639 KiloWatts a year. The amount of energy your household consumes depends greatly on how many reside there. Homes with children typically consume around 20 kWh of power per day, compared to single adults who use around 10 kWh per day.

The amount of power you use of course depends on what you do at home. Those who work from home (especially during the current pandemic) will likely be using more power than the average Australian, what with extra screens, computers and aircon running throughout the day during the warmer months.

Where is Energy Consumed?

Australian residences use about 40% of their electricity on heating and cooling, 23% on water heating, 14% on appliances like the dishwasher and washing machines, 8% on refrigeration, 7% on lighting, 5% on cooking, and 3% on standby power.

Air conditioning is what demands the most power from Australian plants. While a larger system would be required, it is possible to run your heating and cooling systems off solar power alone, potentially saving you up to 40% of your electricity costs. Shutting off your aircon for 15 minutes every hour has also been touted as a way of saving both energy and money.

Energy Consumption Throughout the Day

Every household’s energy needs are unique, but there is data that tells us about typical energy usage throughout the day. Energy usage rises throughout the day, and the highest energy consumption typically peaks at around 7 p.m. with about 90% of people consuming 2.3 kWh during this hour. Energy usage is typically at its lowest around 3 a.m with only 0.6 kWh consumed during this time.

Solar Energy Output

One of the most important factors when deciding to buy solar panels for your home is their cost and efficiency. Solar panels are more efficient at producing energy now than at any time in history. Alongside being more efficient than ever before, solar panels are cheaper than ever before with prices dropping about 89% since 2010.

One solar panel can typically produce around 1.24 kWh per day and the typical household needs around 20-24 solar panels to cover 100% of their energy needs. Australians who consume a high amount of electricity per year will typically see a 3-5 year return on their investment of solar panels.

There has never been a better time to invest in solar power for your property. Large or small, the long term savings are undeniable. Call our team to chat about your options and what to consider to get the best possible installation.

Set Appliances to Run During the Day

Your solar panels will generate the most electricity during the middle of the day, therefore it’s best to run your appliances in this timeframe. Many appliances like washing machines, dishwashers and dryers have a delayed start function or they can be set to start their cycle at a certain time. This allows you to align their use with peak solar hours and will ensure you’re using clean energy to power them, instead of using electricity from the grid. Also consider your small appliances and electronic devices. If you’re at home throughout the day, charge your phone, tablet or laptop during the day too and unplug them in the evening.

Heat / Cool Your House During the Day

Your home heating and cooling systems can be responsible for a large chunk of your power bill, so having the ability to run them for free is life changing! Whilst night time is usually when most Aussies spend time at home, you can prepare your home during the day so it’s at a comfortable temperature when you’re relaxing in the evening. Remember to keep windows shut, close blinds and ensure drafts don’t let the cold or warm air escape.

Monitor Your Panels

Solar panels require very little maintenance and they’ll continue to perform for up to 25 years. If your panels are to live up to their life expectancy; keep an eye on them to ensure there’s no debris or damage. It’s also a good idea to monitor tree growth and vegetation in the area to ensure shading doesn’t affect the panels’ performance.

Consider your appliances, the timing of your energy consumption and the condition of your panels to ensure you’re getting the most out of your investment. A solar power system will save you money on your power bill regardless, but you’ve made the investment, so why not go the extra mile and ensure more money is kept in your pocket to pay for the things that make you happy.

If you’re considering solar installation, get in touch with our team today to find out more.

Assess Your Energy Usage

Your current energy use should give you a pretty clear indication of what you require from a solar power system.

While it’s highly dependent on your home’s location and the amount of daylight you receive; a 1kW solar power system generally produces up to 5kWh per day. Take a look at your last power bill to determine your current usage patterns. The reverse side of your bill should display your average daily consumption. If for example, your average daily energy consumption is 15kWh per day and your goal is to run your home completely off renewable energy, you should consider a 3kW system.

Estimate Daylight Hours Power Requirements

Once you’ve found your average daily energy consumption rate, estimate how much of that energy is actually used during the day. If your home energy use peaks throughout the day (for example, if you’re running a pump or filter for your swimming pool), you should consider a larger system. If you run most appliances during the evening, you may consider something smaller that caters to your reduced energy use in daylight hours. If you’re willing and able to adapt some of your energy usage habits so that consumption takes place more so during the day, a larger system will help to save you more money in the long run.

Consider Your Roof Size

The size of your roof will ultimately determine the number of panels you can install. A professional will help you to make this decision by considering your roof dimensions and orientation. If you’d like to get a rough idea, take down the dimensions of your roof (no need to worry about the south facing part of your roof – panels will most likely not be appropriate for this area) and compare them against standard size solar panels.

When your pre-solar assessment is underway, your installation team will use satellite solar mapping software to generate a report on the number of panels that will fit in order to receive the best results.

Work Out Your Budget

Last but not least, the size of your system will depend on the amount of money you can comfortably spend. If you can make a larger investment now, you will likely save more money in the long run as more of your home’s energy usage will be renewable. If you can only afford a smaller system, you may still use quite a bit of energy from the grid, meaning you’ll still be paying a power bill. However, don’t fear! Your solar specialists will ensure your investment is a good one, and they won’t recommend a sized system that is a) unaffordable, or b) isn’t going to save you money on your power bill. Compare your renewable energy goals with your budget to make a good assessment on what size system will serve you best.

Working with a skilled team of solar specialists will ensure the most appropriate size system is installed for your home. Use the above factors as a guide in determining what system will work best, then talk to the professionals to get the most accurate recommendation.

If you’d like to learn more or you’re ready to get things underway, book a consultation with our team today.

Switch to Energy Efficient Devices

Upgrading to energy efficient devices and office equipment is a smart long term investment for your business. Old air conditioners, heaters and kitchen appliances will consume a lot of energy. Depending on the size of your commercial space, these appliances could be costing you big time. In addition, you can invest in five-star energy rated devices, including computers, monitors, photocopiers and printers. Maintain an eco-friendly office and remember to turn off all equipment completely when not in use, or switch to sleep mode. It seems miniscule in the grand scheme of energy use, but you’ll be surprised at how much you can actually save by doing it consistently.

Embrace Natural Lighting

Identify areas in your building that receive natural light and save artificial light for where it’s needed most. Make good use of windows and skylights, and light up your office naturally! If your business requires constant artificial lighting, be sure to switch to energy efficient light bulbs.

Shade From the Sun in Summer

During the warmer months, protect your space from the sun with awnings, blinds or window film. The sun’s heat will force your cooling system to work extra hard and will significantly increase its energy consumption.

Invest in Solar

You can go one step further with natural lighting and convert it into energy that will power your business. Investing in solar panels for your business will completely change the way you operate. You’ll not only increase your green rating, but you’ll also cut costs significantly without having to make sacrifices to other areas of your business. If you’re looking to become a leader in sustainability, or you’d like to take steps towards operating more efficiently; solar power is the way forward.

Stop paying for excessive energy use that can be easily avoided! Upgrade appliances, adopt energy-saving habits and use the sun to your advantage. Save on your power bill and give your business the chance to grow.

If you’d like to learn more about commercial solar installation, chat to our team today.

Solar Leasing

Leasing your solar panels allows you to make a fixed monthly repayment, with the relevant interest rate applied. The leasing company will own your solar system until you’ve paid it off in full. When considering the costs, compare your monthly lease repayments with the price of your system to ensure the interest isn’t going to send you broke. Also take into account the future of your living arrangements. If you decide to sell your home, the balance usually cannot be transferred to the new home owner and you’ll be required to pay the remainder of what you owe.

Solar leasing is usually a better option for large solar systems that are installed on commercial or industrial properties.

Personal Loans

Personal loans are another good option. They’re a little easier to attain than a green loan and you’ll also have cash-in-hand, creating an opportunity to source the best panels for your home at the best price. They can be hard to come by, but do a little digging and you may be able to find a decent deal on a personal loan. If you’re in a position to pay it off quickly, financing your solar panels with a personal loan can be a cost-effective option.

Interest Free Loans

While it sounds good in theory, it probably shouldn’t be your first choice for financing. No interest on repayments and no upfront costs sounds tempting, but what you’ll often find with these loans is that you’ll pay a higher retail price. This excess bypasses the solar installer and goes straight to the lender. Unless your credit rating is low and you’re ineligible for a green or personal loan, we recommend exploring other financing options before committing to a ‘no interest’ loan.

Cash

It’s the odd one out in the list, but still an option – and a favourable one at that. If you have cash set aside and you’re looking to make an investment, solar panels are a great option. A return on investment isn’t far off and your system will generate a tax-free return that’s higher than any bank interest rates. It’s a smart investment for your bank account and for the future of the planet!

Weigh up your options, consider your credit history and plan for repayments you can comfortably afford. Gather your information and decide on the best way to finance your solar system. If you’re ready to learn more about installation, get in touch with our team today!

Efficient Heating Systems

The heater can be the main culprit of the spike in your power bill. A well designed house with good insulation will require less heating in winter and cooling in summer. However, if you unfortunately live in a poorly insulated home and renovations aren’t an option, a heater can be the only source of heating available. If this is the case, we recommend doing your research, shopping around and investing in a heater that’s suited to the specific space you’re trying to heat.

Other tips for staying warm and keeping costs down:

• Let sunlight into your home during the day and close curtains or blinds as the sun sets and the temperature drops
• Heat only rooms that are being used
• Shut doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping

Turn Off Appliances

A straightforward and very simple tip that we can often forget about! Spending more time at home means you’re likely using more appliances. Remember to switch off lights you aren’t using, unplug your devices (including your work computer) when they aren’t in use and try not to browse with the fridge door open for too long (something we’re all guilty of when working from home!).

If your power bill is alarmingly high, it might also be time to check in with your current appliances. What’s their efficiency rating? Investing in new appliances with a high energy efficiency rating will save you money in the long run.

Adopt Energy Saving Habits

If you have solar panels installed in your home, try to run major appliances when your panels are converting the most energy. This could mean doing your washing or using the dishwasher during the day. If you’re not home during peak daylight hours, invest in appliances with timers or delayed starts.

In addition, if you’re serious about reducing your electricity use, do your washing on a cold cycle, take shorter showers and invest in quality bedding that will keep you warm and comfortable without needing to run a heater all night.

Utilise Solar Energy

Although it’s an investment, now could be the ideal time to install a solar power system in your home. If this year has led to unavoidable lifestyle changes and caused increased energy consumption as a result, it could be time to reconsider how you power your home. If you foresee more time spent at home in the future; solar panels will save you money in the long run and ensure you’re using clean energy to power your home.

Don’t let the shorter, colder days dictate the price of your power bill. Make smart purchases and adopt a more energy-conscious lifestyle to stay comfortable, while keeping costs down this winter.

If you’d like to learn more about powering your home with clean energy and if the benefits will apply to you, chat to our team today.

Roof Orientation

Generally speaking, in Australia northern facing solar panels will convert the most amount of sunlight into energy. However, it shouldn’t overshadow the fact that east and west facing panels also have the potential for efficient conversion. Prior to installation, roof orientation is closely assessed to determine whether a home will benefit from solar power. Homes and businesses can often benefit from a combination of north facing and east or west facing panels. Positioning will reflect your lifestyle and electricity usage patterns. If your peak consumption is in the evening, west facing panels could work well as they’ll receive more sun exposure in the afternoons.

If your home isn’t north facing, don’t be alarmed. Solar power has the potential to be just as beneficial for your home.

Shade

Solar panels are able to reach their full potential in direct sunlight. The amount of shading on your roof is something that is carefully assessed in the initial stages of solar system development. Even partial shading on the cells of one solar panel can affect the efficiency of your panels, so it’s important to ensure your panels are predominately, if not completely, unshaded. This is all taken into consideration during your solar installation and our team will use a range of mapping tools to ensure the system installed is best suited to the level of shading your home receives.

Solar panels have the potential to last as long as 25 years. The vegetation surrounding your home is likely to change and grow over the years, so a tree that currently isn’t shading your home could be in five years time. It’s important to assess the level of shading on your solar panels during routine maintenance.

Thankfully, solar panel technology is continually reducing the impact of shading.

Weather

Blue skies and sunshine are perfect for solar panel performance. However, it’s inevitable that we’ll experience overcast and rainy days amidst the favourable weather. The question is, how do cloudy days affect your solar panel performance? Unarguably, they do reduce conversion, however the panels will continue to produce electricity, just at a lower rate. The weather patterns in your local area are a deciding factor in which panels are recommended for your property.

Here in Queensland, we’re lucky to have sunshine almost all year round, making it one of the best places to have solar panels for energy production for your home or business. Despite the heavy and often somewhat unexpected storms, the sun will inevitably prevail and power production will increase.

Seasonal Changes

Shorter days and less hours of sunlight will unfortunately result in lower conversion. However, on the other end of the spectrum, solar panels are less efficient on scorching hot summer days. Lack of sunlight and extreme temperatures will negatively affect your solar panel system. Transitional seasons like spring and autumn will allow for the most consistent energy production.

While certain elements can create repercussions for your solar energy system; our installation specialists will ensure a majority of the challenges are avoided or overcome. Pre-solar inspections will ensure close assessment to guarantee the most suitable panels for the job. If you’d like to learn more about whether solar power is the right move for you, get in touch with us today.

How to Calculate the Running Cost of Your Appliances

There are a few straightforward steps you can follow to calculate the cost of your household appliances. Complete the following:

1. Determine how much you pay per unit of electricity. This varies depending on your chosen provider.
2. Calculate the input power the appliance uses in kilowatts (kW). This is usually marked on the appliance itself or in the instruction manual.
3. To estimate the running cost, simply multiply the input power by the price of your electricity per unit.

For example, if you’re paying 25 cents per kWh and your air conditioner has an input power of 3000 watts (3kW), your equation would look like this – 3kW x 25c per kWh = 75 cents per hour.

Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption

• When purchasing new appliances, be sure to review the energy and water rating labels when making your decision.
• Turn your TV off at the wall when you’re not watching. The energy consumed during standby mode can add up!
• Save dishwasher and washing machine loads for peak solar hours if you have solar power.

First Steps

The initial assessment

The team at JNT will run you through the initial home assessment to identify whether your home and lifestyle will benefit from solar power. This checklist includes the assessment of roof orientation and structure, current power usage and the number of panels you’d require for the system to run efficiently.

Roof preparation

We will undertake a comprehensive inspection of your roof before the installation commences. Roof preparation will include any maintenance and adjustments required to support the longevity of your new solar panels.

Solar panels are designed to last well over 20 years, and your roof’s structural integri

Panels Go Up

Wiring

When your roof has been given the all clear, our experienced electricians will begin the electrical wiring process by connecting the electrical panel to the general power system. 

Mounting the panels

The panels are connected to the roof with a mounting system, which is generally stainless steel or high grade aluminium. It is the only part of the system that is directly attached to the roof. The mounting will ensure the panels are in a position where sun exposure is optimal.

The mounting system is manufactured to the highest quality to ensure your solar panels remain protected and in position throughout their lifetime.

Generate Power

Connecting to the inverter 

Finally, your new solar panels are connected to the inverter(s). The inverter will convert the DC energy to AC energy, which will power the appliances in your home. 

The final check

Upon completion of the installation, your solar power system will undergo a final evaluation. Once it’s approved, you’re all set, and the system will be connected to the meter where it can begin to generate electricity. You may need to purchase a new meter if your current meter (used to measure energy consumption in your home) is incompatible with your new solar system. If this is a requirement, we will alert you in the early stages of planning to avoid unexpected costs.

Home Insulation

Insulation will assist with reducing the amount of heat that enters your home. Effective insulation keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing the need for cooling and heating systems. Insulation is key to an energy efficient home. It will minimise your energy consumption and ensure comfort is maintained year round. Find out how much insulation is currently in your home to determine whether you would benefit from installing more. Older homes tend to have less insulation, however you can perform an inspection to gain an accurate idea.

Make The Most Of Renewable Energy

You will notice a significant reduction in the cost of power during the peak of summer when you switch to renewable energy. Using appliances to cool your home during the day, when the panels are converting sunlight into electricity, will mean power is not being pulled from the grid.

Installing solar panels for summer will allow you to cool your home without an increased power bill and will enable you to enjoy your cooling systems without having adverse effects on the environment.

Maintain Your Aircon Units

Air conditioners are a saviour in warm climates, however they’re also the appliance that uses the most energy. Maintaining your A/C unit will ensure it continues to work as efficiently as the day it was installed. If you fail to maintain your A/C unit, airflow will become obstructed, and it will impact the system’s performance and energy consumption.

As summer approaches, take some time to prepare your air conditioning unit for use:

• Clean or replace filters
• Check and clean the evaporator coil
• Clear weeds or bushes that have grown around the unit
• Inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window (ensuring a proper seal will prevent cool air from escaping)

Roof Position

The first point to address is the orientation of your roof. The panels will perform based on the direction they face. Also consider whether your roof receives an adequate amount of sunlight during both summer and winter.

Budget

When formulating your budget, remember to subtract the Australian Federal Solar Rebate from the total cost of the solar installation. The rebate is being phased out at an annual declining rate, however you can still claim until 2031. Find out if you’re eligible here.

Roof Size

Is your roof large enough for solar panels? If you live in a townhouse or a smaller building, consider whether a sufficient number of panels could be installed for a successful outcome.

Energy Use

At what time of the day is energy use highest in your household or business? Solar panels produce energy during daylight hours, so you will benefit most if energy consumption peaks during the day.

Power Bill 

Review your recent power bills to determine your potential savings. Calculate your average power usage to work out which panels will be most efficient for your property.

Panels required 

Once your budget, average energy consumption, roof orientation and size are established, you can then look to deciding on the number of panels you will need. Closely consider whether your budget allows you to install the number of panels required for adequate energy production.

Benefits of solar installation

Solar power is a great way to overcome the cost of rising power bills and it should also add significant value to your home or business if you decide to sell in the future. The benefits of solar stretch beyond the bank account and are an important step in working towards a more sustainable future. If you’re living circumstances are suited to solar, you will reap the rewards for many years to come, with very little maintenance required.

How solar power works

The road to renewable energy is generally very simply. Solar power works like this:

• The solar panels installed on roofs convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity
• The DC electricity is then converted into 240V alternating current (AC) electricity through a solar inverter
• Your home will then be powered by the AC electricity from the solar power system
• Electricity will only be drawn from the grid if you require more than what’s produced through the solar power system

CONSULTATION

During your initial consultation, you’ll meet with your local JNT Electrical team to discuss factors including your home’s power usage, suitability, building specifics and other considerations that are relevant to your situation.

INSTALLATION

Once you’ve approved the quote and package, we can begin installation. Rest assured knowing this process is fast and hassle-free. Our team of experts guarantee the highest quality results with every installation.

CREATING A PERSONALISED PACKAGE

After we’ve met with you and identified your unique requirements, we’ll develop a package that’s best suited to your home and lifestyle. From here, we’ll provide a formal quote.

ONGOING SUPPORT

JNT Electrical is available for ongoing support and maintenance. We can provide assistance to ensure your solar panels are working efficiently and performing at the level required.

Things to consider for new solar installation:

• • Your average daily power consumption
  • The time of the day power is predominantly used in your home
  • Your location
  • Shading, surrounding trees and buildings
  • Roof orientation

Check your latest power bill to gage your average daily consumption in kWh. This figure will determine the type of system your household requires to operate efficiently. For example, if your household’s average daily consumption is 20kWh, you’d require a 5kWh system. The team at JNT Electrical will confirm which system is best suited to you.

Price does vary between different solar set ups, and the investment you make now will determine your long term benefits. Both cheaper and more expensive set ups will convert sunlight to power, however a higher quality product will conduct this more efficiently. Essentially, this means more renewable energy for your home and less power purchased from your supplier.