Switching to solar power can be an intimidating prospect for some. After all, many of us have been used to just paying their energy bills and not thinking any more about it. Other than usually getting upset about the high prices and wishing there was a better way. Today, let’s take a look at some reasons why some folks don’t make that switch to solar power.
System Cost
Installing a solar system may cost a bit of money upfront. Even though advancements in solar technology and government incentives and an increasingly competitive solar market, it can still put a hole in your budget to start with. The costs of installing the system will heavily depend on the size of the solar system you wish to install (see table 1 below). However, thankfully there are now ways to gain access to solar power without spending a single cent. See our article on how here.
Table 1. Estimated solar system insallation costs
Legalities and Regulations
Installing a solar power system on your premises involve important legal and regulatory considerations that need to be understood.
When you work with CEC accredited solar energy providers, you don’t have to worry about any of these. They will take care of all the necessary legal items and permits for you.
Suitability of Facility
A solar power system is as good as the quality of the components and the design. So it is important to choose a quality installer that will assess your building’s structural integrity, choose the right panels and inverters, and come up with a design that will last the 25 years.
Some factors that determine whether your building may be suitable include:
Roof size and strength
Location and local climate
Whether there are obstructing trees/buildings nearby
Energy consumption
Maintenance
While solar power systems are low-maintenance, they are not “no maintenance”. So it is important to recognise that to get the best performance out of a solar system it is recommended the solar panels are cleaned at least once every one to two years. It is also advised to check the wiring for normal wear and tear at the same time. You should also realise that inverters do not last forever, and typically come with a 10-year warranty.
If taking care of all this yourself doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, then there are ways to get access to cheaper energy that is generated from solar power. Through a solar power purchase agreeement (solar PPA), you can gain access to solar energy with no upfront installation costs. Your only responsibility is to ensure you have enough space on your roof.
Energy Terrain
Energy Terrain offers lower cost, clean energy for businesses that are looking to reduce their operational expenses and their carbon footprint. Through our Solar PPA offered, we provide your business with the energy you require while our company handles the legal considerations, assessments and maintenance of the system. This means your business can focus on your core activities by putting your resources and energy where it matters most. Get in touch with our Sales Team today. We are happy to walk you through how your business can greatly benefit.
References:
Department of the Environment and Energy, Australian Government, Renewable power incentives, viewed 23 December 2018, <https://www.energy.gov.au/rebates/renewable-power-incentives>
Energy Terrain, Three Ways to Access Solar Power, Energy Terrain, viewed 23 December 2018,
Department for Energy and Mining, Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) arrays and battery systems, South Australian Government, viewed 23 December 2018,
Clean Energy Council, About Our Members, Clean Energy Council, viewed 23 December 2018, <https://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/>