Solar systems have grown increasingly popular over the past 15 years with over 3 million Australian homes now generating their own electricity. However, some people remain skeptical. In this article, we will unpack the myths surrounding home PV systems and explore “Are solar panels worth it?”

What are the Benefits of Solar Panels?

The benefits of solar panels are numerous. They reduce emissions, provide independence from the grid, and can save you money on your energy bills. PV systems also make your home more valuable in the eyes of potential buyers.

Reduced Emissions

A typical 6.6kW solar system will prevent the release of more than 2 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere over its lifetime. This is equivalent to taking a car off the road for 9 years. By going solar, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint but also helping to fight climate change.

Independence from the Grid

With a home solar system, you can generate your own electricity and become less reliant on the grid. This means that during daylight hours, you vary rarely will need to draw energy from the grid. Additionally, if you generate more than you use, you can export this back to the grid in return for a solar credit.

Reduced Energy Bills

One of the main benefits of solar panels is that they can help reduce your energy bills. This is because you’re generating your electricity, which means you’re not paying for it from your energy provider. Studies have shown that by going solar, homeowners can save up to 50% on their energy bills.

Solar Panels & Financial Incentives / Rebates

Another reason to switch to solar is the various financial incentives available. The federal government offers a generous financial incentive through the Small-scale Technology Certificate program.  You can learn more about this program by visiting our Understanding STCs page. For business customers, installing solar can come with a variety of additional incentives including tax rebates, or depending on the system size, it may be eligible for the instant asset write-off program. There are also a number of state-based incentives available, so be sure to do your research and see what’s available in your area.

Choosing the right Solar Panels

The most important thing to consider when analyzing whether or not solar panels are worth investing in, is the panel itself.  The quality and efficiency of panels can differ greatly between manufacturers and models. Many people think that they should buy cheaper panels and splurge on the inverter; however, this is not true. Both the panels and the inverter are equally important when it comes to system efficiency. No matter what your budget, you should always research the panels that your installer proposes to ensure they are best suited for your needs. When selecting a panel, ensure:

• The manufacturer has a local presence in Australia (i.e. an Australian office and local distribution network).
• They are tier one and have been around for at least 15 years.
• The manufacturer offers extensive warranties and is financially sound so that it is still around to honor these warranties. Read about the LG Solar closure and how it will affect their customers here.
• The panel is tried and tested in Australian conditions
• Your installer has proof that the panels are legitimate and not fraudulent. Read more about solar scams and counterfeit panels here.

At Goodhew Electrical and Solar, we use only the world’s leading brands. Longi Solar is the world’s number one monocrystalline panel manufacturer with over 22 years’ experience in the solar cell manufacturing industry. Moreover, Longi outranks all other panel manufacturers as the world’s most financially sound solar manufacturer year after year. The company is the ONLY solar manufacturer in the world to hold a AAA credit rating. This gives us and our customers confidence in knowing that the company will be around in years to come to honour warranties and provide service / support.

Speak to the Solar Experts

If you would like more information on which solar system is right for you and learn how we can potentially eliminate your power bill, call us today. Alternatively, you can Request a Quote.

Are Solar Panels Worth It?