Basic Home Solar Panels Buyer’s Guide

If you are decided to make the switch to solar power then good for you! Solar PV prices have never been lower; in fact it has plunged by around 50% today compared 3 years ago. PVs today also have better efficiency rating, better lifespan and improved protection against the wear and tear of outdoor elements.

Before you buy, make sure to bring a checklist with you considering the following:

Panel Type, Cost and Efficiency


There are a number of home solar panel types each having their pros and cons, be sure to conduct a research before rushing to a dealer and know every  basic information about each type  so you won’t end up buying the most expensive type that doesn’t suit your energy needs and environment. Companies exaggerating efficiency rate often are unreliable, on average, solar PV panels in the market today with exception of prototypes have an efficiency rating of about 18% anything higher just isn’t possible yet.

Cost may vary depending on the type of solar array and the dealer that you will be buying from, always remember to shop around first to get the best deal possible before pushing through. Just a tip – It is always better to spend a little more on quality rather settling on cheap and often unreliable products.

Know your rebates and incentives


Solar enthusiast may be geeky on this stuff but if you are not, then it is best to browse the web for reliable sources or phone experts on this matter. In general, what you need to know are the current rebates and feed in tariff (FiT) scheme implemented by the federal government and the state. Across the country Queensland’s solar rebates and FiT remained stable; some states either closed the scheme down or lowered the rates.

The feed in tariff is scheme may seem complex but is really easy to understand, it oblige the state to pay home solar panel users for the excess electricity that is sent back to the grid which is recorded by your home smart meters given that you abide to the guidelines released by the government (maximum system size per phase, period of application, safety measures and metering type).

Installation


The installation process is very important in achieving the maximum potential of your solar PV system, installers should place the panels on the perfect spot considering shading, intervals between each panels to avoid overheating and proper wiring for safety purposes.

Massive Solar Project Proposed

Australia will soon see the very first solar updraft tower in the country as a local company proposed a massive 200 MW project utilising the simple yet unique approach of generating electricity offered by the technology.

Unlike normal Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants the updraft tower does not use mirrors or photovoltaic panels to focus heat in a central place, the technology works by collecting heat through its sheet collectors and transfers it in a central tube that contains a generator. Using the principle that warm air rises, the heated air will then rise through the height of the tower which turns the generator that produces electricity. The updraft tower also has the potential of generating electricity at night because the system traps enough heat to continue propelling the generator providing additional base load electricity.

Although the solar updraft tower is more expensive to build than traditional CSP and solar PV farms, maintenance and operations are very minimal outweighing the initial cost of the project in the long run.

The updraft tower technology may be young in the country but Spain has proven its viability and has operated a similar prototype project for the past 7 years without flaws. If the project pursuits, it will be built in a 127,000 hectare land in Western Australia region near the city of Perth and is said to begin the 2 year construction by 2014.

The 200 MW solar updraft tower will give a massive boost in Australia solar power capacity in addition to the country’s solar flagship programs. The 150 MW Moree solar farm in the state of New South Wales which will be comprised of 650,000 solar panels and the The 250 MW Solar Dawn project which will utilise a natural gas hybrid and CSP technology. All three above projects are the largest of their kind and are expected to set the standards of large scale solar power applications in the country.

Apart from sequestering carbon and aiding the country in achieving its renewable energy goals, all three projects will also have a positive impact in the country’s economy employing thousands of workforce and during and even after construction for maintenance and operating purposes skyrocketing green related jobs.

Earlier this month news came out that the federal government will be establishing the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) after a plea from the GREENS leader senator Milne, according to her it is vital to establish the independent body as soon as possible for large scale solar power projects to thrive in the country and avoid politics from meddling with it.

Fast tracking ARENA to Manage Large Scale Solar Power Projects

Australia’s solar flagship faced major setbacks and delays in the past few months, after a failure to enter a private financing deal another problem surfaced. According to Energy Minister Martin Ferguson a major issue that halted the progress of the project was a failure to establish a power purchase agreement with energy utilities for the solar farms.

Australia’s solar flagship programs will establish the backbone of the country’s large scale solar power projects and data will serve as the basis for further development. The alarming delay prompted GREENS leader senator Milne to call for the early establishment of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and take over the country’s solar PV projects to prevent politics from meddling with it maximising opportunity and fast tracking progress given that it is an independent statutory body.

About the ARENA

The ARENA is a part of Australia’s Clean Energy Future Package that will manage the country’s $3.2 billion renewable energy investments, commercialisation of renewable energy technologies and research and development of the industry for continued progress and competitiveness. From the $3.2 billion total funding the ARENA will have a floating available fund of $1.7 billion for renewable energy investments in their discretion giving particular opportunity for large scale solar power farms, geothermal power plants, wave power and other emerging technologies that offer great potential which will be available from the establishment of the ARENA up to 2020.

Apart from the above mentioned the body will also be focusing in lowering the cost of homesolar panels and other decentralised RE technologies through continuous research and development. The ARENA will also be managing numerous initiatives of the government such as: ACRE Solar Projects, Renewable Energy Venture Capital Fund, Emerging Renewables Program, Geothermal Drilling and Bio-fuels program.

ARENA will have an independent, decision making Board appointed by the Minister for Resources and Energy, and will also have a CEO appointed by the Minister for Resources and Energy on the recommendation of the ARENA Board.

As soon as the body is established Australia’s large scale solar projects are expected to hit the right path and other renewable energy technologies will soon follow.

Hervey Bay Solar Farm Commences

Hervey Bay will soon be on Australia’s solar map as two of the community solar farms begin construction. A total of $4 million of solar power investments will take footing at Hervey Bay hospital and Wide Bay Water Corporation opening green related jobs, boosting local solar industry and saving hundreds of tonnes of carbon each year.

Currently Hervey Bay is a major player in building virtual solar power in Queensland and with a strong pipeline of projects this year the city can be distinguished as one of the most promising renewable energy powered region not only for the state but the rest of the country.

Two Major projects commencing


The $2.7 million Wide Bay Water Corporation solar panel project will consist of 1600 solar panels generating a total output of 396 kilowatts enough power to supply nearly 100 homes sequestering 600 tonnes of carbon each year. Queensland Energy Minister Stephen Robertson said that the project will also have a huge impact of local economy employing a number of work forces during construction and maintenance, encourage more community investments in renewable energy particularly solar power and catalysing business growth related to the industry.

The community solar farm will be built at Wide Bay Water Corporation premises at Kawungan. Construction has started and the project to harness the clean energy from the sun will be operational in early 2012.

Hervey Bay Hospital will also undergo a green retrofit through a $1.3 million solar power project. The array will generate a total output of 266 KW equivalent to 385 megawatt hours of energy annually saving more than 400 tonnes of carbon each year. The project will also include a large interactive LCD display that demonstrates the system’s performance for public education purposes. The project is also expected to be fully operational early this year alongside with the community solar farm.

Both projects is an initiative of the local government in an attempt to encourage more private installations of solar panels in Hervey Bay by showcasing to the public the environmental value of solar technology and how it will help them reduce their electric bills especially during this times of uncontrollable price hikes. The projects will also instill a great core value in the region’s youth introducing renewable energy at an early stage.

The state of Queensland aims to be the country’s most sustainable city and town by town Queensland is transforming energy generation by creating virtual solar power stations and modifying behavioral patterns towards sustainability.

Why Install Solar Panels with Feed in Tariff Uncertainty

The premium feed in tariff schemes run by the individual state governments of Australia have now closed for new applications in some states and the rest, except for Queensland, are nearing their caps. However installing a solar panel system is beneficial itself even without the premium rates initially paid by the scheme.

Electricity cuts

The feed in tariff pays eligible solar PV system owners a specific rate for every kilowatt fed back to the grid but if you are not able to apply before your state cap is reached then the key in making electricity cuts rely in installing a system that suffice your energy needs.

Before purchasing a system make a simple study of your energy consumption, take your average energy usage in a month for at least a year using your electric bill. You can do this by simply subtracting the electrical reading after each from the date you wish to start with all the way to your latest bill (by doing so you will have your energy consumption monthly and see which month and season you use the most energy). Next is to subtract the first dating bill that you wish to start with all the way up to your present bill then divide them according to the number of months. The average energy consumption combined with your monthly usage will you give a clear idea how much energy you consume and when. After gathering those data, you can now decide what system size will be just enough for your home.

Without the feed in tariff scheme going off grid can also be an option, just be sure to install a solar panel system that exceeds your needs and purchase a reliable battery pack.

Environmental preservation

With or without the feed in tariff scheme, the carbon reduction effects of the system will be the same; you can still make significant cuts to your carbon footprint and preserve our environment for future generations.

A thought to ponder

It is best to combine your solar power system with a solar hot water system; this will ensure better energy sustainability especially for households who wish to go off grid and never to receive electricity bills again.

Always be sure to purchase your systems from certified manufacturers and solar retailers who are listed by the clean energy council of Australia. It is published on their extensive website for safety and quality reasons.

Home Solar Panels Simply the Best GREEN Retrofit

There are a number of ways how you can transform your homes into a green hub, some may need slight home modifications and some may only involve behavioral modification. All green retrofits are essential in saving money on energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint but right now solar PV panels shines even if the sun isn’t.

Major Benefits

Installing home solar panels benefit you in countless ways and even your neighbors! A typical 1.5 KW solar panels in Queensland can slash your electric bill by as much as $450 every year simply by using less electricity from the grid and savings can increase if you will sign up for the state’s generous feed in tariff scheme and or install the maximum allowable system size of 5 KW. The system is also considered as one of the most eco-friendly technology today and an average household with installed PV’s can save an average of 2 tonnes of carbon each year.

Given the very low prices of photovoltaic today and hefty government rebates and incentives, return of investments are expected in a little less than 5 years and with a general lifespan of 20 to 25 years, solar panels will save you money for many years to come.

Other Benefits

Australia has long been solving peak energy consumption, especially during noon and afternoon when everyone is using their air-conditioners. Decentralising energy generation can solve this problem especially through solar panels. The massive surge of consumption is directly proportional when the system is working at its full potential reducing high energy imports that helps regulate electricity prices not only for you but also for non solar users.

Photovoltaic panels also offers positive insulation effects, in study conducted by students of UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering thermal imaging showed that buildings with installed solar panels are cooler than those without. The panels act as a barrier from direct sunlight and the reduced heat that penetrates your roof is regulated through the accumulated air flow in the cavities between your roof and the system.  The study revealed that heat can is reduced by as much as 38% therefore minimising the need for air-conditioners which in time saves you more money.

Green retrofits such as photovoltaic are also beneficial in real estate deals. Apart from aesthetic and location energy efficiency is now given high regards before buying a property, It has been proven that houses and other properties with installed PVs sell faster at a higher price than those without.

Passive and Active Savings on Solar Panels

Indeed solar panels saves you money by using less electricity from the grid and through the feed in tariff scheme, home solar panels owner has the ability to export unused electricity generated by their system to the state grid at a fair market price boosting savings and catalyzing return of investments.

Today, Australia’s rooftops are being filled with solar panels and or solar hot water systems – they know the savings! However, little that we know, solar power also has passive benefits for households who have not made the switch to solar power. A recent study conducted by the University of Melbourne's energy research institute showed that through the merit order effect electricity generation from rooftop home solar panels in an average home is perfectly timed during heavy hours of energy use (normally at noon and afternoon) or peak demand hours that minimises high voltage import to the main grid which collectively regulates electricity price even for non solar powered homes.

A paper from The University of Melbourne also revealed that a feed in tariff price of 35¢ to 40¢ a kilowatt hour would lower electricity prices by more than it would cost to fund it – perfect backbone for this year’s IPART’s review of the feed in tariff scheme.

Every installed system will account for savings not only for the home solar panels owner but also for non users and if Australia’s solar power capacity would reach anywhere near 3000 megawatts through large scale projects and private investments either from households and small businesses the country will be looking at savings as much as $1 billion on energy bills reducing the overhead cost of energy from every sector.

The federal government formulated numerous programs and schemes that will encourage households and small business to install renewable energy systems not only to decrease carbon emissions but also to transform the country’s energy sector to a low carbon one and minimise dependence to expensive coal and other fossil fuels. Decentralised energy generation such as solar PV systems will also reduce transmission cost and expensive maintenance and upgrade of state grid grids needed to cope with our increasing demands.

This year the carbon tax is set to be implemented and the Gillard administration hopes that it will be the first step in an all out war against carbon through creating a strong sense of initiative in innovating approaches in manufacturing carbon intensive products and haltering the dependence in traditional energy sources. The clean energy future package of the federal government are subdivided into 4 parts, the carbon tax, renewable energy, energy efficiency and land use all of which are directed towards a more sustainable future.

Sunshine Coast’s Successful EcoBiz Program

 The city of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland has implemented the EcoBiz Program under the Department of Environment and Resource Management which aims to aid businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while making significant cuts to their expenses.

The EcoBiz program, which is in cooperation with the Queensland government, assists businesses by introducing energy and water conservation tips and equipment, as well as advising on more productive ways to use their current resources.

The main goal of the program is to take a closer look into the existing water, energy and resources of individual businesses and then develop plans and methods for increasing productivity while reducing utilised resources.

 What sets the ecoBiz program apart from other eco-efficiency tools is that it provides the user with a simple methodology for defining resource costs in terms of units of production which also helps in calculating the future pay.

Currently the EcoBiz program has helped 17 businesses across the Peregian borders in reducing their expenses and carbon footprint while increasing productivity and in generating more profit. The Peregian businesses tossed a celebration with their success by planting trees in the Peregian boardwalks as part of their EcoBiz plan.

Steve Skull happily said that the council was pleased that the council’s role of helping and supporting the community in becoming self sufficient is now being fulfilled.

Under the program the council is currently working with 60 more businesses and aims to spread the EcoBiz virus throughout the coast in the future.

The city of Sunshine Coast has supported environmental protection since the ages and it has become the core value of the city. For an instance solar energy in Sunshine Coast would have not become a success without the community mobilisation of the council and their continued efforts.

The efforts of the Sunshine Coast regional council have turned the city into one of Australia’s cleanest region. The environmental actions of the council together with the community brought a green ambiance across the coast.

Sunshine Coast Environment and Community Enrichment Programs

Living on the Sunshine Coast seems a lot like living the dream for the many holiday makers who visit every year, not only is it blessed with a great climate and abundant beauty from beach to bush, there is also a laid back vibe and relaxing ambiance about the community.

So it’s not surprising that many residents have moved there from bigger cities and feel a sense of privilege now at being lucky enough to live in such pleasant surroundings. And this translates into a strong environmental awareness and concern about protecting the natural assets that make it one of the most liveable regions in the country.

With its continued popularity, relatively small land area and already quite dense population suitable planning is a must, and fortunately the Sunshine Coast Council has been very proactive with long term thinking in the way of promoting and supporting environment and community programs.

These have already been effective in boosting the regions renewable energy initiatives like solar power, and it is well on its way to becoming a well-recognised sustainable and green city.

Community development

The city is focusing on the enrichment of the majority of the populationbydesigning projects and activities that will suit various groups of people to promote the well-being of every individual, and improve their social interaction and relationships with family and peers.

Environmental development

The relaxing feeling that you get from being on the Sunshine Coast is enhanced by the extensive environmental projects that are promoting and protecting the natural assets and biodiversity of the city.

Environmental protection has been a key role of the regional council, which has also heavily involved community engagement. Your property can be eligible for financial grants for the environmental restoration to contribute to the city’s improvement; enquire with the council for further details.

To further protect the financial grants and rebates will be provided for the installation of eligible renewable energy systems, which is the reason for the widespread use of solar hot water and solarpower in Sunshine Coast, and after all it is an ideal climate for solar energy!

Cultural development

Creative programs that preserve and spread the cultural heritage of Sunshine Coast have also been a focus of the city council. These include:

·         To build community capacity through creative practices or activities

·         To further develop and revitalise established programs or projects

·         demonstrate a creative or innovative approach

·         Improve artistic or cultural performance.

Economic development

If you own a business or local establishment in Sunshine Coast then you take advantage of the grants and support the local government is giving which include:

·         collaborative projects between local businesses

·         collaborative marketing and promotion

·         Business mentoring, i.e. the establishment of scheme/s to mentor a range of businesses.

Recreation and Health Promotion

Community locals can benefit from cost effective programs that promote healthy lifestyle and encourage locals to eat right and make it a habit to exercise.

The Sunshine Coast has always been a great place to live, and it’s reassuring to know that the local government is doing so much to protect and enhance that lifestyle for its residents!

Solar Flagship Projects Soon to Rise

Australia will soon see two of the most sophisticated and largest solar farms in the world, The Solar Dawn Project and the Moree Solar Farm will soon start construction as both projects enter plan finalization and community consultation.

The two farms will be funded under the $1.5 billion Solar Flagship program of the federal government which aims to improve the country’s solar capacity, showcase internationally Australia’s potential in clean energy, reduce carbon emissions and to provide the foundations for large scale, grid-connected, solar power to play a significant role in Australia’s electricity supply.

Moree Solar Farm

The Moree solar farm will be erected in near the town of Moree in New South Wales where it perfect conditions has been indentified, and will feature 650,000 solar PV panels and produce enough power for around 45,000 households (a city roughly the size of Darwin), leading to an annual displacement of around 400,000 tonnes of CO₂ through generation of renewable electricity.

The Moree solar farm is expected to provide answers on issues circulating in integrating utility scale solar farms in Australia’s main grid. Australians can also expect that the project will deliver good economic outcomes, development of clean energy related skills among locals and continuous supply of clean and renewable energy. Towns across NSW primarily communities surrounding the project can expect increase in labor opportunities, reduction of agriculture dependence and cheaper electricity

Solar Dawn Project

Unlike the latter, the Solar Dawn project will feature solar thermal gas hybrid power plant. The farm is capable of generating 250 MW of energy. The Compact Linear Fresnel Reflector (CLFR) technology that will be used in the project is the latest in the industry and has never been seen in any projects worldwide. Soon to be built in Chinchilla in South-West Queensland, positive projections are already surfacing. The 450 hectare solar field will position Australia as a global leader in utility-scale solar thermal power generation and provide significant local employment and training opportunities. The project will also involve a long-term research collaboration with The University of Queensland for further technology development and analysis that will serve the foundation of future solar thermal gas hybrid power plant.

The massive project will also have positive impacts on solar power in Queensland encouraging more private investment and offering educational value for everyone.

Both Moree and Solar Dawn will help Australia in reducing its greenhouse emissions, achieve the country’s renewable energy target and provide cheap, clean and safe energy.

Solar Power Essential to Sustain Growing Population

Earlier this month our worldwide population just landed on the 7 billion mark according to the Human Development Report of 2011. A report also released by the United Nations earlier this year also revealed that with the current inflation rate our population may hit above 9 billion halfway through the century.

The rapid population growth poses serious potential problems like scarcity of basic necessities that include food, potable water, shelter and energy supply.

Australia is no exemption to the rapid population growth reaching over 22 million in 2009 and is expected to skyrocket even further before the year 2011 closes. Primarily Australia’s population growth is due the high numbers of immigration and higher birth rate than mortality, which suggest a good economic and health status. However, this fact poses a problem in the energy sector. The increase in energy demands is one of the primary reasons of the energy price hikes and with the federal government aiming to achieve carbon neutrality in the future a sustainable energy source that can keep up with the rising demand is necessary.

The country has made great strides to promote and commercialise the use of solar power in Australia and other renewable energy sources. The programs of the government is notable worldwide as one of the most comprehensive of its kind providing not only financial assistance but also behavioral change opportunities to improve home and business energy efficiency. Australia has also engaged large scale renewable energy projects through the Solar Dawn and Moree solar farm projects which will soon commence as part of the country’s Solar Flagship Programs that will uplift solar power in Queensland and NSW. Numerous utility solar power farms and wind farms have also been constructed throughout the country to support virtual power stations in the private sector.

Moreover, the federal government of Australia is providing green retrofit assistance to visible institutions like bus stations, parks, universities and schools to impart to the community the importance of early climate change action and the benefits they can reap from renewable energy.

The massive campaign launched by the federal government will soon drive sustainability in the country and transform Australia’s energy sector strengthening it and delivering energy security to every Aussies.

United Nations Development Program has promoted the use of renewable energy sources to drive sustainability in every nation in response to the fact that the world is now facing an energy crisis with around 20% of its population living without electricity.

Building Queensland’s Virtual Solar Power Station

When Queensland started a full blown campaign on solar power in April of 2010 the state only has 250 MW of installed solar capacity and aimed to double it within 5 years, but with the help of Queenslanders and generous government support the target was achieved in less than a year and a half proving solar energy’s viability and Queenslanders growing love for it.

Town by town and city by city, Queenslanders are helping build Queensland’s virtual solar power station and the good news is - you can too! Through the state’s solar bonuses and schemes you can work hand in hand with the government whilst reaping the rewards of generating your own electricity. Every installed solar power system in Queensland, be it for home use, business, schools, community groups or government projects takes the state a step closer in meeting its ultimate goal of sustainability.

More than 100,000 Queenslanders have installed are now enjoying the benefits of either solar hot water systems or solar panels in Queensland and figures continue to rise day by day. By installing solar you'll be saving yourself money by reducing your electricity bill, whilst also protecting the environment.

What YOU can get

Installing solar hot water systems can reduce your energy bills by up to $250 annually and as much as $450 on a typical 1.5 KW solar PV system simply by importing less electricity from the grid – and savings can increase by several folds through the state’s generous feed in tariff scheme. On average either of the system can help sequester 2 tonnes of carbon every year which by will come by the millions if every Queensland will take their part and work together.

Today, solar power systems have become cheaper by as much as 50% compared to average prices 3 years ago thanks to technological advances and by applying for both the federal and local government’s solar bonuses and schemes thousands of dollars can still be slashed off the price tag given that you will be guided by the implemented eligibility criteria.

You are not alone

The Queensland government is also contributing in building virtual solar power station. Currently the state has the following projects that are directed towards public benefit and educational gain.

·         Solar Schools

·         Windorah Solar Farm

·         Virtual Solar Power Station

·         Townsville Solar City

·         Solar at the University of Queensland

·         Queensland's Solar Atlas

·         Solar Flagships

·         Solar Metricon Stadium

·         Solar at Queensland Rail

·         Kogan Creek Solar Project

·         Solar for Hervey Bay

Cloncurry Solar Farm

Research and Development of Solar Technology Continues at University of Melbourne

Researchers from University of Melbourne, in collaboration with Monash University and several major industry partners, have launched a $7.2 million project that will further develop our current solar cell technology. The researchers aim to produce more efficient and cost effective solar cells, with particular focus on the manufacturing process and emissions involved.

Producing solar cells which can produce zero-emissions electricity will provide new manufacturing opportunities for local industries, and it is expected that the new technology will provide better commercialisation and increase the competitiveness of production processes across the country and worldwide.

The federal government of Australia will grant the research $1.7 million under the Australian Solar Institute, which is in addition to the $1.7 million grant already given by the Victorian state government.  The government funding is a part of the Clean Energy Future Package which is devoted to the support of existing renewable energy sources, and especially towards further research and development.

According to Resource and Energy Minister Martin Ferguson, the project aims to develop solar cells from organic materials and so eliminating any environmental impacts that traditional solar panels have. Another goal is to developing printing machines for newly discovered minute solar cells capable of mass production at very low cost.

The Minister said that the collaboration of researchers and industries will aid in the commercialisation of the technology and help unlock its variety of potentials. "Australia is a leader in solar energy research and projects such as this will help Australia remain at the forefront of this rapidly growing industry.”

The ongoing research and development into solar power applications provided by the University of Melbourne has already made a positive impact on the solar industry, which is being embraced by local residents and businesses.

Solar energy in Melbourne is becoming very popular and with new solar power developments happening regularly we can see a future where it will not be seen as an alternative source of energy, but rather the main source. Research like that occurring at the University of Melbourne together with the additional funding provided by the new tax on carbon will contribute greatly to Australia achieving our goals for carbon emission reductions by 2020 and 2050 especially as the local and international price of solar panels plunges it is not surprising to hear talk about the country reaching grid parity faster than anticipated. From 2008 to 2010 solar module prices have decreased by 50%.

Off Grid Solar Power a Bright Idea

 Making the switch to solar power allows you to connect to the state grid via the feed in tariff scheme which also pays you for any surplus electricity fed back to the grid. However, this luxury isn’t always available for people living in remote locations, typically farmers, but this does not mean that offsetting your carbon through solar power solutions is impossible.

Going off grid has become a popular solar power solution for farmers and households who live in remote locations. Off grid solar PV systems basically works like a normal system that you see in an urban setting the only difference is the use of a storage unit which normally is a lithium-ion battery pack. Off grid solutions often are bigger in size to ensure continued supply of electricity throughout the day and store enough power for the evening.

Bigger system size means bigger investments but is absolutely worthwhile since you never have to pay electric companies again and fully offset your carbon emissions turning your home into an absolute green hub. Like grid connect PVs, off grid solar PV systems offer quick return of investments and profit for a long period of time.

Another reason to make the switch to solar power is the New Solar Credits Incentives implemented by the federal government of Australia since June of 2010 which provides generous financial incentives to eligible applicants in replacement of the former Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP).

The scheme will work by creating Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to households or businesses that are not under the Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP), are located more than 1 kilometre from the state’s main grid and has proof that the system costs more than $30,000. The RECs will be created for the first 20 KW of the system which will be multiplied to the current solar credits factor (today is the factor of 3). If a system is less than 20 kW the RECs can still be multiplied for the rated power output up to 20 kW.

The scheme will be implemented until July 1 2015 however the scheme will have variable annual caps for the RECs financial year which are as follows. 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012 250,000 RECs, 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013 250,000 RECs, 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014 150,000 RECs and 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 100,000 RECs.

At full capacity the incentive can subsidise tens of thousands of dollars of the system cost making off grid solar power solutions cheaper and available for almost everybody who wishes to eliminate their electric bills and help mitigate greenhouse gases.

Queensland’s New Solar Atlas provides In Depth Data for Solar Investments

Another historic day for Queensland as Energy Minister Stephen Robertson unveiled the state’s new “Solar Atlas”. The new resource is designed to provide companies with an in depth look into Queensland’s solar data to allow them to identify the best possible location for any new solar power project.

The Solar Atlas has been derived from the data collected from the monitoring stations at Roma, Cloncurry and Charters Towers over a 365 day period, together with feed from a satellite that monitors the solar radiation from these regions. Data showed that the North West, Far North and Central West areas have the most abundant solar radiation in the state, and so are the likely best locations for a solar project.

Companies and institutions interested in solar power projects can use the Solar Atlas to estimate the annual frequency, intensity and even KWh output every day in a specified region in the state on 5KM radius. The map can also be used to tell what kind of solar technology best suits the specified location for optimum output and quicker return of investment.

It is expected that the map will help revolutionise large and medium scale solar power projects in the future and assist solar engineers to develop better means of harnessing the state’s rich solar resources and putting it into practical use.

Households and small businesses can also benefit from the Solar Atlas as it provides them with a rundown of how a typical solar PV system or solar hot water system would work in their location and an estimate in energy bill reduction.

Energy Minister Stephen Robertson said that the Atlas will help Queensland achieve its renewable energy goals and will be an important aid in effectively addressing climate change.

The Solar Atlas is part of the state government’s ongoing commitment to improve and develop solar power technology and boost private investments in solar power in Queensland. This will create more solar related jobs, stabilise the industry, and help to incorporate renewable energy sources into all aspect of the community, reduce greenhouse emissions and increase Queensland’s solar capacity.

The Solar Atlas will also be helpful in mapping the state’s rich solar resources especially with the implementation of the carbon tax on July 2012 and the establishment of the Clean Finance Corporation nearing. The Atlas will serve as the blueprint of the Queensland’s future solar power investments while the CEFC as the avenue of budget. 

Record Shattering Clean Energy Investment

Despite the economic crisis and recession last year, global renewable energy investment saw a record breaking high with trillions of dollars in investment and  the United States retaking the number 1 position from China with over $55 billion in total expenditure.

Particularly, solar power has the highest increase in all renewable energy sources with investments reaching $136.6 billion a 36% surge from 2010 records. Bloomberg New Energy Finance chief executive Michael Liebreich said that the sudden peak in investment is primarily because of the price of solar panels which fell by almost 50% during 2011 and today is 75% lower compared to price range 3 years ago excluding government subsidies.

The continued plunge of solarPV prices made solar technology more competitive and more viable than other renewable energy sources resulting to a giant leap in investment not only in the United States but across the globe including countries that did not displayed interest in clean energy before.

2011 was also a prosperous year for renewable energy in Australia with investments reaching $4.7 billion topping 2010 levels, an increase of 11% in total, mostly derived from rooftop solar panels and other solar power systems. Bloomberg New Energy Finance's lead clean energy analyst in Australia Kobad Bhavnagr said that despite the introduction of the carbon price didn’t turned out quite well for now, clean energy investment continues to increase and on the road to reach $6.5 billion within a year and over $45 billion by the end of the decade fulfilling Australia’s renewable energy target.

Climate Change Minister Greg Combet said the government's clean energy package was meant to ensure Australia ''does not miss out on the benefits of clean energy investments'' and the scheme will come to time and will act as the catalyst for more renewable energy investment both residential and commercial.

European countries also set records last year beating their previous high on clean energy investment for a total leap of 3% from 2010 level with Germany and Italy leading on solar installations for both large scale projects and decentralised installations.

Other countries like China, India and Brazil also performed well in last year, With China ranking at number with a minute increase of 1% but still a hefty investment reaching $47 billion, India leading their part of the globe with a remarkable 52% increase totaling over $10 billion and Brazil with a decent 15% increase to $8.2 billion.

Melbourne’s Green Initiatives

It is no wonder that Melbourne was awarded as the most liveable city in the world, the city aims to holistically cater to every need of its citizens. Parts of Melbourne’s credentials are comprehensive initiatives towards greener energy production and usage.

The city council aims to achieve zero net emissions by 2020 by reducing carbon emissions from its own operation. Figures showed that by 2010 the council has reduced over 30% of its greenhouse emissions proving the reality of the 2020 goal.

The Melbourne’ city council primarily offsets carbon emissions by relying heavily on green power sources such solar power in public lighting and operated buildings of the council which has successful reduced nearly 50% of carbon in the said operations.

It was also a historic day when the Council House 2 became fully operational and achieved a 6 green star, the highest possible rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. The CH2 building was able to reduce significant amounts of carbon compared to other buildings in its league, the CH2 building offered building engineers and business owners innovative designs and energy efficient units that will reduce their environmental impacts significantly and enjoy enormous energy bill savings.

Part from being a role model and a perfect example of sustainability, the local government of Melbourne also has implemented some of the most comprehensive programs in the country in hopes of commercialising renewable energy sources and encouraging more people to make the switch.

Melbourne aims to reshape energy generation in the city by building power stations in every roof through solar panels in Melbourne properties. Generous rebates and grants await interested parties and an opportunity to participate in supportive programs such as Melbourne’s Eco-City campaign.

Apart from energy generation, the city has started working on developing the transport sector, which is the second biggest polluting sector in the country. The city plans to encourage the use bicycles and public transportations to remove people from individual vehicles therefore making significant cuts to transport emissions. The city and the state of Victoria have also started introducing hybrid vehicles to improve petrol mileage and reduce trips to petrol stations.

The city has also been working in better waste management systems and water conservation which all accounts in the very favourable living conditions in the city.

Melbourne’s efforts will soon payoff and there is a large possibility that Melbourne will not only be Australia’s most sustainable city but in the entire world.

Australia’s Pathway to Renewables by Beyond Zero Emission

Last January 19^th 2012 at the Memorial Hal lMaple St, Cooroy in Sunshine Coast, Beyond Zero Emission group presented to the public an in depth research of Australia’s pathway to 100% renewable energy. The group’s research is fairly known to the energy sector and has received awards for its diverse contents and accurate implications.

Beyond Zero Emission is a nonprofit organisation composed of well known researchers and engineers who committed themselves, their time and resources to devise a plan on how to replace traditional energy generation with renewable energy. In partnership with the University of Melbourne Energy Institute and some of the country’s finest researchers the group’s research won the 2010 Mercedes-Benz award for Environmental Research and founder Matthew Wright, was named the 2010 Young Environmentalist.

Beyond Zero Emission’s flagship research is a detailed framework of Australia energy sector without fossil fuels and even coal seam gas. The group analyzed current technologies available in the market, trends and price projections before constructing a blueprint of renewable energy integration. Beyond Zero Emission believes that timely and effective action can minimise if not eliminate the effects of climate change, full details of the research will presented during the event and the public is being invited to come and be informed.

The group’s presentation is indeed timely and much needed especially with the carbon tax months from implementation. The research will show the attending public the unprecedented effects of climate change and the potential of renewable energy sources in solving it. The event will also have a positive impact on local clean energy trade maximising awareness and capitalising on available resources in Sunshine Coast.

Already Sunshine Coast is blessed with almost untapped renewable energy particularly solarpower; the event can boost installations of rooftop solar panels in Sunshine Coast decreasing fossil fuel dependence and carbon emission.

The group also tackled the economic benefits of renewable energy and its potential of securing jobs and building a green economy.

Australia will soon be transitioning to a low carbon economy especially with the federal government government’s Clean Energy Future Package looming around the corner. It is just rightful for the public to be informed now and start acting on arresting climate change and still learn how to benefit from it.

ARENA One Step Closer to Legislation

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency is one step to legislation as the lower house passes the body and will soon be reviewed in the senate which currently is the comfort zone of the Clean Energy Future Package. Like the carbon tax the legislation of the ARENA is almost certain as soon as it gets through the lower house and only formality is what’s left to do.

If the ARENA passes through the senate it will be established simultaneously with the implementation of the carbon on July 1, 2012 and will have a substantial seed of $3.2 billion for the development of renewable energy technologies in the country. Nearly half of the body’s budget has already been committed for the further research and development needed in existing technologies while the rest of the body’s seed is yet to be planned for.

The ARENA’s billion dollar support for renewable energy will bring milestones to RE technologies putting Australia in the renewable energy map and is expected to bring genuine grid parity on a national scale. Apart from providing generous financial support the ARENA will also act as a unity point to several clean energy bodies such as the Australian Centre for Renewable Energy and the Australia Solar institute bringing them under the same roof for better guidance and collaborative opportunities.

The legislation of the ARENA marks the second phase of the Clean Energy Future Plan and soon the $10 billion Clean Energy Finance Corporation will follow. Both bodies will act as catalyst for carbon mitigation and behavioral change towards environmental preservation in almost every aspect of the community tagging along sustainability and a low carbon economy.

Businesses, households and lessees will highly benefit from the bodies opening doors for better energy efficient opportunities shielding them from the rising energy bills and any indirect effects of carbon tax. The boosted renewable energy sector will also pave way to a new breed of work forces, green power jobs is likely to increase through the years becoming one of the stable sector in the country as more solar power and other clean energy investments are made.

Adelaide GREEN Assistance Programs Still Available

Last year the city of Adelaide made great progress in greening the city, through various assistance programs and numerous government projects across the city. The opening of 2012 will still be healthy for solar power and other green retrofits as programs and grants are still up and running and are expected to encourage more residents to green their properties since the carbon tax is due a few months from now.

Currently there are five ways major ways to go GREEN in Adelaide covering the entirety of the community.

1.       Solar power rebates – The somehow flag carrier of the city’s green campaign is still available this 2012 reimbursing up to $1,000 for installing solar panels in Adelaide properties (minimum 1KW peak) and up to $5000 for Adelaide based apartments (common use). A maximum of $1000 can also be reimbursed by installing solar hot water systems and no more than $500 for residential rainwater tanks.

2.       Special offers – Business and residential participants of the Adelaide Solar City Program will be able to take advantage of special discounts on accredited solar power systems and receive freebies such as free smart meters, free energy audits and energy efficiency pack which includes a power saving power board and shower timer.

3.       Free home energy audit kit – Residents can borrow a free home energy audit kit from the council library to determine your energy usage and average carbon emissions that will assist you in using energy wisely and more efficiently.

4.       Green transportation – Adelaide is home to the world first solar-powered electric bus, Tindo which charges its battery pack from 100% solar energy in the city’s central bus station. Tindo is under the connector bus service of the city at no cost to you that aims to introduce to the riding public the benefits and viability of solar power.

5.       CitySwitch green office – the program is a partnership between Adelaide and other city council across the country that aims to reduce up to 50% of carbon emission from the business sector simply by modifying behavior. Businesses signing up to CitySwitch as a signatory commit to achieve and maintain an accredited 4 stars or higher NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System).

The continued pipeline of programs will help Adelaide fulfill its renewable energy action plan of 2008 – 2012 and reduce significant amount of carbon. With the city’s efforts at full scale it will be no surprise if Adelaide is listed in Australia greenest city in the future.