Solar Photovoltaic (PV) cells are produced from thin wafers of silicon with many of these connected together to form a solar panel. When exposed to sunlight, the cells convert the light directly into energy in the form of electricity. A number of these panels wired together form a solar array, which becomes the major component of a solar powered system.

A solar PV powered system that is electrically wired through the meter of a household and back to the existing street power is known as a grid-connect system. The DC voltage generated from the solar panels is wired through an inverter where it is converted to 240v AC to be utilised within the premises where required. If the premises requires more than that provided by the solar PV system, then it draws the remainder of its needs from the grid. If the solar PV system produces more energy than is being consumed, it exports the surplus back to the grid.

The Queensland Government has developed the Solar Bonus Scheme to encourage an increase in the number of solar energy systems installed throughout the state. Both domestic and small commercial installations will be eligible from 1 July 2008 to receive credit of 44c per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the surplus energy generated from a solar PV system that is returned to the grid. This rate is around three times the amount most of us pay for our power from the grid (15.4 c/kWh Origin domestic rate). Read More...

In essence, this translates that an installed solar PV system providing one third of your energy needs could potentially eliminate your power bill (depending on your energy use patterns). If the system generates more than this fraction as a surplus, then credit is issued from the electricity provider. Therefore a solar PV system can now provide an economic return as well as demonstrating your commitment to the environment.

Once a solar PV system is installed, Energex fit a second electrical meter at the premises to specifically record the solar energy output from the system. The energy provider can then calculate the economic difference for billing /crediting between how much surplus energy is produced by the system and how much is consumed from the grid. The outputs can also be read at any time from the inverter or optional wireless display unit.

In our location of Southeast Queensland we can expect a 1 kW system to generate an average power output of around 4.25 kWh per day. A 2 kW system should generate around 8.5 kWh per day etc. Even our smallest 1 kW system can provide an efficient home with around 50% of their energy needs.

Some people look at the benefits from an environmental aspect while others look at the economics. Regardless of your view, the benefits include a reduction of future energy bills, increased capital value of the property, reduction in personal greenhouse gas emissions, the personal satisfaction in moving toward a more sustainable existence, and it also sets an example for the surrounding community.

Systems are sized and designed to suit the roof limitations, budget, or capacity requirements of the client. The costs associated with each installation may vary marginally depending on access to the roof, ceiling space, and relative location of your switchboard. Please contact our office for an estimated price and should you wish to receive a written quotation we will be more than happy to visit you to discuss your options in greater detail.