Frequesntly Asked Questions

Before you decide to invest in solar, it’s important to do your research so you know what will work for you. Think about: what type of system you want to install, how much you want to spend and what government subsidies you might be eligible for.

How many panels can I fit on my roof?

As much as you reasonably can within what is allowed & practical.

What size solar PV system should I get?

This will depend on:

    • what portion of your electrical consumption you wish to generate
    • the physical unshaded area available for the installation of your panels
    • how much you are prepared to spend

How long does the connect application process take?

Connect your solar PV system to the grid is a two-step process that involves the following:

    1. making an application to connect your system prior to installation (where required)
      Dependant on your inverter size. A 5KW inverter can be approved in 24-48hours. Anything over a 5KW inverter will need to go through an evaluation process and can take up to 65 working days.
    2. a meter change/reconfiguration and connection to the grid.

Who does the meter change?

Your existing meter may need to be reconfigured or replaced by a new import/ export meter before you can connect to the grid, especially if it is an older home. This may need to occur before or after installation, depending on the requirements in your state.

If your home is a NEW build, the new meter style will already be fitted. Your solar retailer will need to be notified to organise a meter change/reconfiguration.

What extra costs should I consider?

Extra costs to be aware of that might not be included in your initial quote:

    • meter change or reconfiguration
    • upgrades to your switchboard or cabling
    • removal of trees or other shading
    • site preparation needs (for example, condition of roof or ground)

how long will a solar panel last?

So, how long will a solar panel last? Most of our solar panels have up to 25 years performance guarantee, and it a lifetime expectancy of 40 years is possible.

What are STC’s

Government incentives in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) to help reduce the upfront cost of installing your solar PV system.

    • STCs are an electronic form of currency and are allocated to you when you install a solar PV system.
    • One STC is equivalent to one megawatt-hour of electricity generated by your solar PV system.
    • The price of STCs changes according to market conditions.
    • The total level of subsidy you receive will depend on a number of factors, including the location and size of the solar PV system and the price of STCs at the time the system was installed.

There are two ways you can be paid for your STCs:

    1. Assign your STCs when you purchase your solar PV system to a registered agent in exchange for a financial benefit, which may be in the form of a delayed cash payment or upfront discount on your solar PV system (most consumers take this option, and your solar retailer will usually make the arrangements on your behalf), or
    2. Create the STCs yourself by finding a buyer and then selling and transferring them in the Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) Registry.

Your warranties

  • panel and inverter warranties are covered by the manufacturer.
  • Most inverters now have a 10 year warranty.
  • Most panels now have a 25 year warranty.
  • We cover your installation warranty for 10 years.

When should I change my retailer?

Do not change retailers until after your EWR has been completed and your solar metre is in place by your current retailer.

If you change retailers before your install & EWR is completed, it cancels your current connect application & you would have to submit a NEW connect application & EWR, this process can take a further 45 – 60 days.