Blog | Commercial Solar Panels Storage in Melbourne

January 4, 2024 Online Solar

Switching to solar energy is a smart move for your wallet and the environment. Although the upfront cost of solar panels may seem high, solar financing options are here to help.

In this guide, we’ll explore various ways Australian homeowners can finance portable solar panels, making it easier for everyone to harness the benefits of solar energy.

Solar Financing Options in Australia

Getting solar finance or rebates is a great way to cut down the cost of your solar panels. These options can help you save money and make solar energy more affordable for your home.

Cash

If you have savings and no debt, paying cash might be the best option. You own the system immediately, saving on interest, but it may limit your financial flexibility.

Pros

Cons

Green Loans

These loans offer low-interest rates and are excellent if you don’t have cash on hand. However, a strong credit history is usually required, and options are limited.

Pros

Cons

Interest-Free Solar Loan

While appealing, these loans might end up costing more due to added fees. They are accessible for those with lower credit scores but come with shorter terms.

Pros

Cons

Personal Loan

Flexible and pre-approved, personal loans offer versatility but tend to have higher interest rates. Finding the right deal can be challenging, requiring a decent credit history.

Pros

Cons

Solar Leasing

No upfront payment and lower monthly costs make leasing attractive. However, you won’t own the system until it’s fully paid, and interest rates can impact long-term savings.

Pros

Cons

Adding Solar to Mortgage

With low interest rates, this option provides immediate ownership. However, it could cost more over the long term, and it’s riskier if not managed wisely.

Pros

Cons

Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

No upfront payment and no regular repayments make PPAs enticing. However, you only receive partial benefits, and you never own the solar panel system.

Pros

Cons

Conclusion

With the rise of portable solar panels, accessing affordable and clean energy has never been easier. Even without upfront resources, you can choose from various solar financing options to fit your needs.

Evaluate each option carefully after considering your financial situation and long-term goals. Make the most informed decision for a brighter and solar-powered future.

Efficient Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme Solutions by Online Air and Solar

December 12, 2023 Online Solar

In Australia, a ray of sunlight is powering a green revolution, thanks to the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

Part of the broader Renewable Energy Target (RET), this policy aims to ensure that a substantial amount of 33,000 Gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Australia’s electricity comes from renewable sources by the year 2020.

Introduced in January 2011, the RET was split into two components, each with a unique purpose:

Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET)

It encourages the establishment and expansion of renewable power stations, like solar farms, wind farms, and hydroelectric power stations, to contribute significantly to the 2020 renewable energy goal.

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): This initiative, on the other hand, offers a financial boost for individuals, small businesses, and community groups to adopt small-scale renewable energy systems. This includes solar panels, wind turbines, hydro systems, solar water heaters, and air source heat pumps.

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) Explained

The SRES operates by incentivizing the installation of small-scale renewable energy systems, particularly solar PV systems of up to 100 kW. It achieves this through the issuing of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).

The number of certificates a system generates is influenced by its location. Sunnier regions are eligible for more STCs, reflecting the expectation of higher power production, while less sunny areas receive fewer certificates.

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) in Australia provides financial incentives to encourage the adoption of small-scale renewable energy systems. The primary incentive comes in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). Here’s how the financial incentives work under the SRES:

Financial incentives that arrive with Small-Scale Renewable Energy Schemes in Australia

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

When you install an eligible small-scale renewable energy system, such as solar panels, wind turbines, hydro systems, solar water heaters, or air source heat pumps, STCs are created based on the expected output of the system.
These STCs act as tradable certificates and represent a certain amount of renewable energy generated by the system over its expected lifetime (usually 15 years).
One STC is equivalent to one megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable energy.

Tradable Certificates:

Upfront Discount

Location-Based Rewards

Financial Flexibility

Installer Responsibility

In Conclusion

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme stands as a signal of progress in Australia’s journey towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly energy landscape.

By transforming sunlight into a tradable commodity, the scheme not only reduces the carbon footprint but also fosters a greener and more resilient future for generations to come.

As the sun continues to shine down under, so does the promise of a cleaner and brighter energy future for Australia.

Which is the Best Solar Panel for a Home

Solar Solar Pannels

April 13, 2023 Online Solar

Are you tired of constantly rising energy bills and want to make the switch to renewable energy? Solar panels can help you generate clean and affordable energy for your home. But the market is flooded with so many options, it can be daunting task for house owners to choose the best solar panels. And to help you with that, we’ll checkout the world of solar panels in this article. We will know about the top factors that can help you choose the best solar panel for your home.

Types of Solar Panels

First, it’s crucial to comprehend the many solar panel varieties that are offered. Following are some of the most frequently utilized varieties:

Monocrystalline
Polycrystalline
Thin-film solar panels

A monocrystalline solar panel is made from a single silicon crystal. It is also the most efficient type of solar panel. The polycrystalline panels are made of many silicon crystals and are marginally less effective than monocrystalline. Whereas the thin-film solar panels are the least efficient ones and are made from a thin layer of photovoltaic material.

Top Factors to look for before choosing the Best Solar Panel for a Home

Efficiency

Efficiency is a key consideration when selecting solar panels for your home. The amount of sunshine that a solar panel can convert into useful electricity serves as a gauge of its efficiency. The most effective panels are typically monocrystalline, and some types can achieve efficiencies of above 20%. Polycrystalline panels often achieve efficiencies between 15% and 17%, making them significantly less effective. The least effective panels are thin-film ones, with typical efficiencies between 7% and 13%.

Durability

Durability should be taken into account while selecting a solar panel. It is crucial to select a solar panel that is made to endure the environment because solar panels are intended to survive for many years. Monocrystalline panels are typically the most durable, with many manufacturers offering warranties of up to 25 years. Polycrystalline panels are also durable, but their warranties are typically shorter, ranging from 10 to 25 years. Thin-film panels are the least durable of the three types, with warranties typically ranging from 5 to 10 years.

Cost

When selecting solar panels for your home, the cost is a crucial consideration. The most expensive panels are often monocrystalline. Prices for polycrystalline panels are marginally less expensive. The least expensive of the three are thin-film panels, with typical costs between $0.40 and $0.80 per watt.

Aesthetics

At times people do consider visual appearance of solar panels which goes according to their home design. As solar panels come in range of colours and sizes, you do have plenty of options. But in polycrystalline panels, you only get blue colour and it appears to be mottled. Whereas monocrystalline panels are normally black and have a consistent appearance. Thin-film panels can be created to order to fit any design and come in several colours.

Size and output of the solar panel

You should have a look at the available space on your roof to know the size of the panel. Bigger panels may often provide more electricity because of their higher output. So that not might be the ideal option, though, if your space is limited.

Installation

Make sure you hire a professional solar installer who is licensed, insured, and experienced. To avoid any safety risks or damage to your property, it’s vital to see that solar panel installation is done appropriately. A professional installer can also help you navigate the permitting and incentive process, which can vary depending on your location.

Area available

Your roof’s direction and tilt will affect how effectively your solar panels work. Solar panels should ideally be tilted between 30 and 45 degrees. You might need to install more panels to make up for the output loss if your roof is not tilted or oriented in the best way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the ideal solar panel for your house necessitates carefully taking into account several aspects, including effectiveness, dependability, price, aesthetics, brand reputation, size and output, orientation and tilt, installation, and environmental impact. You can find an ideal solar panel if you sort down your demands. This will save your money on your energy bills and lower the carbon footprint as well. If you require quality and affordable solar panel installation for your home then look no further than Online Air & Solar which offers reliable solar panel installation at a fairly affordable cost.

Types of Solar Panels

First, it’s crucial to comprehend the many solar panel varieties that are offered. Following are some of the most frequently utilized varieties:

Top Factors to look for before choosing the Best Solar Panel for a Home

Efficiency

Durability

Cost

Aesthetics

Size and output of the solar panel

Installation

Area available

Conclusion

What is the difference between commercial and domestic solar panels

Solar Solar Pannels

April 13, 2023 Online Solar

As the world works to cut carbon emissions and embrace renewable energy sources, harnessing solar energy has grown in popularity recently. To power homes, businesses, and even entire cities, solar panels are utilized to transform the sun’s energy into electricity. Solar panels, however, are not all made equal. Commercial and domestic solar panels are the two major varieties that are offered. In this article, we will compare both and also talk about which one might suit your needs.

Understanding Commercial Solar Panels

Commercial solar panels are made for big jobs like supplying energy to entire towns, factories, and business structures. Compared to household solar panels, these are usually bigger, stronger, and more efficient. The amount of sunlight that is turned into power is indicated by the efficiency rating. Commercial solar panels frequently have a value of 15% to 20%.

Understanding Domestic Solar Panels

Domestic solar panels, as the name goes are best for residential use. They are smaller in size and also less expensive. Also, their efficiency rating is lower than commercial panels. They are typically installed on rooftops or in backyards, and they’re used to power individual homes or small businesses. Domestic solar panels typically have an efficiency rating of 10% to 15%.

Key differences between commercial and domestic solar panels:

Size and Capacity

Commercial solar panels are much larger than domestic panels. They are designed to produce a higher amount of electricity. A single commercial solar panel can generate anywhere from 300 to 400 watts of electricity, while a domestic panel typically produces between 150 and 300 watts.

Efficiency

Commercial solar panels are more efficient than domestic panels. Since they are more efficient, they can produce more electricity from the sunshine. Domestic panels normally have an efficiency rating of around 15%, however, commercial panels might have a value of up to 20%.

Durability

Commercial solar panels are made of stronger materials and are built to endure extreme weather. They can endure up to 30 years or more and are more durable than domestic panels.

Cost

Due to their greater size, higher efficiency rating, and longevity, commercial solar panels cost more than home panels. So before buying, make sure you have your budget calculated.

Installation

Installing commercial solar panels is a complex process that requires a high level of expertise. It often involves the use of heavy equipment and specialized tools. On the other hand, domestic solar panels may frequently be installed by the homeowner and are extremely simple to set up. This is because they are more compact and don’t need as much specialist gear.

Output

Commercial solar panels generate a lot more electricity than residential ones. They are built to generate sufficient energy to run large-scale processes, such as factories or power plants. On the other hand, domestic solar panels are made to generate enough energy to light up a single home or apartment.

Purpose

Unlike commercial solar panels, which are designed for large-scale energy production, domestic solar panels are made for individual households to generate their energy. While commercial solar panels are used to produce electricity on a large scale, domestic solar panels are used to reduce the amount of electricity that homeowners must purchase from the grid.

Conclusion

In conclusion, even though domestic and commercial solar panels both turn sunlight into electricity, they differ in several significant ways. The domestic panels are smaller and less efficient but you can easily install them. Whereas the commercial panels are larger and more efficient and also more expensive. Homeowners and businesses may make the best choice for their unique needs by understanding the distinctions between the two types of solar panels.
And if you have made up your mind, you can simply contact Online Air & Solar which is a reputed solar panel installer for installing any type of solar panels.

How to choose a solar system for a commercial building

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March 22, 2023 Online Solar

As climate change and environmental concerns rise globally, the need to reduce carbon footprints is growing. Overall businesses are turning to solar power for a more sustainable and cost-effective energy source.

But choosing the right solar system for your commercial building can be a daunting task, given the wide range of options available in the market. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting a solar system for your commercial building.

Energy Consumption

To begin with, you need to determine your energy consumption. You can easily do this by examining your electricity bills from the past year or by using an energy monitoring tool to track your energy usage. From that you get a good idea of how much energy your building consumes, you can then calculate the size of the solar system you need.

Roof Space

This is another critical aspect to look at. The amount of roof space available in your commercial building is crucial as it will determine the size of the system you choose. Other factors like the orientation of the roof and any shading from nearby buildings or trees will also be among the factors to look for.

System Type

As you have various types of solar systems available in the market, including grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid systems, choosing the right one is vital! A grid-tied system is connected to the utility grid and allows excess energy to be sold back to the utility company. Whereas the off-grid system is not connected to the grid and is used in remote areas without access to electricity.

Quality of Equipment

The quality of the solar panels and other equipment used in the system is another important factor to consider. When you consider high-quality equipment, they will be more efficient and last longer, reducing the need for maintenance and replacement. Along with this, you should also look for equipment with a good warranty and a proven track record of performance.

Cost

The cost of a solar system for your commercial building will depend on several factors, including the size of the system, the type of equipment used, and the complexity of the installation. Cost is among the major factors to consider but it should not be the only one. You should look for a solar installer with a good reputation and experience in installing commercial solar systems.

We Can Assist!

At Online Air & Solar, we understand that choosing a solar system for your commercial building can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure that you choose a system that meets your energy needs, budget, and environmental goals. Our team of experts is experienced in designing and installing commercial solar systems, using high-quality equipment and the latest technology to maximize efficiency and minimize maintenance.

How to choose a solar system with battery storage for home

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March 14, 2023 Online Solar

Solar energy is now becoming increasingly popular and therefore, more and more homeowners are considering installing a solar system with battery storage to power their homes. A solar system along with battery storage can be just an excellent investment. It will offer you a reliable and sustainable source of energy that will save you money on your energy bills and also reduce your carbon footprint.

However, choosing the right solar system with battery storage for your home can be a daunting task. In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to choose a solar system with battery storage for your home.

Step 1 – Determine Your Energy Needs

Well, the first step in choosing a solar system with battery storage for your home is to determine your energy needs. You have to assess how much energy you use daily and how much you want to generate from your solar system.

Step 2 – Choose the Right Solar Panels

As you now know your energy needs, it’s time to choose the correct solar panels. Solar panels come in different sizes, and costs. So we recommend you choose the right type of solar panel that fits your energy requirements, budget, and aesthetic preferences. You can find this information on your utility bill or by using an online energy calculator.

Step 3 – Choose the Right Battery Storage System

After you have chosen your solar panels, the next step is to choose the right battery storage system. Batteries come in a variety of sizes, capacities, and pricing. You have to choose a battery storage system that is compatible with your solar panel system and meets your energy storage needs.

Step 4 – Solar System with Battery Cost

A solar system with battery storage can be expensive. So make sure you look at the cost before purchasing. The cost of a solar system with battery storage will depend on the size of the system, the type of solar panels, and the battery storage system. We recommend you consider the long-term cost savings when choosing a solar system with battery storage.

Step 5 – Choose a Reputable Installer

Finally, choose a reputable installer for your solar system with battery storage. The installer you choose should have experience installing solar systems with battery storage and should be licensed, insured, and certified. Make sure to read reviews and ask for references before choosing an installer.

We Can Assist!

Investing in a solar system with battery storage for a home from Online Air & solar will not only benefit the homeowner but also contributes to a more sustainable future for our planet. By making the switch to solar renewable energy, homeowners are reducing their carbon footprint and doing their part to combat climate change.

Solar Pannels

February 22, 2023 Online Solar

Solar energy is the safest form of renewable energy with zero side effects to the environment. The electricity produced by solar panels is clean, renewable and emission-free. Compared to burning fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, electricity generated using solar power does not result in any harmful emissions and air pollutants.

Moreover, solar energy is free and readily abundant, so much that it can power a house in just one hour of sunshine. Some benefits of solar energy for the environment are:

Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Solar energy can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) that are often accompanied with the combustion of fossil fuels and contribute to rising global temperatures and climate change.

By going solar, you can play your role in lowering the demand for fossil fuels, minimising the greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing your own carbon footprint.

Saves Water Consumption

Water is one of the most valuable yet most consumed natural resources. The truth is that, we are at the risk of running out of fresh water in the future. Compared to traditional electricity, solar panels do not utilise any water at all while generating power. They only need the pouring rainwater to clean the panels naturally when they become dirty.

Reduces Air Pollution

Compared to solar energy, the electricity generated from fossil fuels can emit dangerous carbon dioxide and methane pollutants into the atmosphere. This can greatly reduce the quality of the air we breathe. Using direct sunlight to generate energy means fewer harmful emissions in the environment and better air quality.

Lesser Carbon Footprint

Solar energy is one of the cleanest forms of energy that is highly sustainable and efficient. There is no need of water to generate power, no dangerous pollutants are emitted into the environment, and the energy is free and abundant. Relying on solar energy instead of the grid reduces the carbon dioxide emission to a great extent.

No Dependency on Fossil Fuels

Since sunlight is readily available, you can generate unlimited amount of solar energy to power your house everyday. On the other hand, fossil fuels are rapidly depleting and in the near future, we’ll have no access of some of these resources. Relying on solar energy can reduce our dependency on fossil fuels.

So, these were some of the many benefits of solar energy on the environment. If you are planning to play your part by going solar, Online Air and Solar can help you right away. We are a trusted solar installation company assisting households and businesses in generating electricity from direct sunlight.

Solar Pannels

February 21, 2023 Online Solar

Solar energy is the need of the hour and one of the inexpensive sources of generating electricity for everyday use. The price of installing a solar system depends on the size and capacity you want to install. Some 5kW residential solar systems can be installed for less than $4,000, but the premium ones are more expensive.

Before buying a solar energy system, consider the following:

The price difference between several solar panels from reputed brands will be marginally same. It’s better to look out for one that offers after installation support.
By getting installation quotes from all the local solar companies in your area, you can typically find out what all they offer in a specific price range, including warranty details.
With the introduction of grants and other advancements in the solar energy technology, you can get a top name brand solar fitted by experienced installers for around $5,000.
Though the demand for solar panels has increased over the years, their price has dropped significantly because of rise in solar equipment manufacturing to meet the demand.

How much does a 5kW solar energy system cost?

The energy consumption of a typical household is around 20 kWh per day and the most ideal solar energy system to fulfil that need is a 5kW system.

A 5kW residential solar energy system from a reputed brand name costs about $5000 in installation. You can expect to spend around $9,000 for modern and high-efficiency solar panels in Melbourne.
Your quarterly electricity expenses could be reduced by about $500 using sun-powered source of renewable electricity.

What’s the output of a 5kW solar energy system?

As per the guidelines outlined by The Clean Energy Council (CEC), the output of a 5kW solar energy system is 20kWh per day depending on the weather conditions. The output will be comparatively higher on hot and sunny days. When the weather is overcast or cloudy, the output will be low.

One important thing to consider when installing a 5kW solar system is how much electricity you consume during the day. As a general rule, you can maximise the efficiency of a 5kW solar energy system for your home if you regularly pay $600–$1,000 quarterly electric bill.

If you are planning to install high efficiency solar panels at a competitive price, opt for 5kW solar system installation in Melbourne. At Online Air and Solar, we specialise in installing solar panels of all sizes and capacities.

Solar

January 30, 2023 Online Solar

In recent years, installing solar hot water systems is becoming a new-age sustainable trend. However, it is difficult to maintain and check for troubleshooting problems too. Looking for handy tips to check whether the system is functioning properly or not regularly? This article will explain how to check whether a solar hot water system works.

Solar Hot Water System Maintenance Checklist

This checklist will provide you with an overview of the tasks that need to be done regularly and how often they should be performed:

Go for periodic maintenance:

Your solar water heating systems require regular maintenance. This will help to detect common erroneous areas such as leaks and cracks. It would help if you got the cracks fixed shortly, as it may create bigger troubles for the system.

Check for loose wiring and improper connections:

It would help if you got it checked to find the major area of trouble, such as loose wiring. It is vital to note that systems often fail when there is an improper connection between the wires.

Look for dust accumulation:

One of the most important maintenance tasks for solar water heating systems is to look for dust accumulation. Dust can accumulate on the surface of the panels and in other parts of the system, reducing its efficiency and leading to higher energy costs. To get your systems to run efficiently, they must be cleaned regularly.

Corrosion in heaters:

Constant water flow can result in corrosion, making it a common problem. This corrosion can damage the solar heater and reduce its efficiency. Understanding the cause and effects of corrosion is important to prevent it from happening.

Plumbing Issues in Systems:

Plumbing issues can be a real headache, especially if you are unfamiliar with the system. To ensure that your plumbing system is running properly, it is important to contact your manufacturer or local service provider for professional help. With their expertise, they can quickly identify the problem and provide effective solutions to get your plumbing system back up and running in no time.

Pro-Tip to handle the solar water heater troubleshooting:

If nothing goes your way and you are baffled, You can opt for Online Air & Solar. They are industry experts that can help you save big bucks on your systems. Moreover, they go the extra mile to help their customers with utmost priority.

Conclusion:

Proper solar hot water system maintenance is essential to ensure it functions optimally. A solar hot water system maintenance checklist can help you stay on top of the regular checks and inspections needed to keep your system running smoothly. With this information, you can ensure that your solar hot water system works at its best for years.

In recent years, installing solar hot water systems is becoming a new-age sustainable trend. However, it is difficult to maintain and check for troubleshooting problems too.

Looking for handy tips to check whether the system is functioning properly or not regularly? This article will explain how to check whether a solar hot water system works.

Solar Hot Water System Maintenance Checklist

This checklist will provide you with an overview of the tasks that need to be done regularly and how often they should be performed:

Go for periodic maintenance:

Check for loose wiring and improper connections:

It would help if you got it checked to find the major area of trouble, such as loose wiring. It is vital to note that systems often fail when there is an improper connection between the wires.

Look for dust accumulation:

Corrosion in heaters:

Plumbing Issues in Systems:

Pro-Tip to handle the solar water heater troubleshooting:

Conclusion:

Looking to install solar panels on your tile roofing Know how

Solar Pannels

January 30, 2023 Online Solar

Solar enthusiasts and nature lovers! Are you planning to install solar panels on your tile roof? Well, you’re at the right place! Installing solar panels on a tile roof can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry, we’re here to make it super simple for you. We’ll walk you through the whole process, from determining the best spot for your panels to connecting them to your electrical system. Trust us, it’s not as scary as it sounds.

Installing solar panels on a tile roof can be a great way to harness the power of the sun and reduce your energy costs. However, it’s important to make sure the installation is done properly to ensure the safety of both the installers and the homeowners.

Choose The Perfect Spot

Firstly, you have to determine the best location for the panels. This will depend on the orientation and slope of the roof, as well as the amount of sunlight the area receives. You will also need to consider any potential shading from nearby trees or buildings.

Prepare The Tiled Terrace

Once the location for the panels has been determined, it is now time for the installers to prepare the roof. This may involve removing some tiles to make room for the panels, and reinforcing the underlying structure to support the weight of the panels. The installers will also need to run electrical wiring from the panels to the home’s electrical system.

Attach The Mount

Now you have to install the mounting system for the panels. This is typically done by attaching brackets to the roof, which the panels will then be mounted on. It is crucial that the installers use the correct type of mounting system for tile roofs to ensure the safety and longevity of the system.

Final Installation of The Panels

Finally, the solar panels themselves will be installed. This is usually done by attaching them to the mounting system using bolts or other fasteners. Once the panels are in place, the installers will need to connect them to the electrical wiring and test the system to make sure it’s working properly.

Overall, installing solar panels on a tile roof can be a bit more complex than installing them on a flat roof, but with the right equipment and experience, it can be done safely and efficiently. If you’re considering adding solar panels to your home, it’s important to choose a reputable installer with experience working with tile roofs.

Online Air and Solar provides comprehensive solar solutions for your home. With a perfect five star rating on Google, they are one of the most reputable service providers out there. Head on to www.onlineairandsolar.com.au to know more about their offerings.

Conclusion

In summary, installing solar panels on a tile roof is a complex process that requires a professional installer to ensure the safety and longevity of the system. We hope that we have been able to clear your inhibitions. If you have any queries, contact us.