How Solar Works
In a nutshell, solar PV systems utilise energy from the suns radiation and convert it into usable electricity.
To do this solar PV systems use photovoltaic cells in the solar panels to harvest the power from the sun and converts it into DC electricity. This is then converted into AC electricity (the same as that at your home or business). This is achieved via a key piece of equipment that is called an “inverter”.
The inverter is connected directly to the electrical system at your home or business and the energy is then utilized to operate your electrical equipment during the hours of generation, rather than importing energy from the grid.
Any additional generation from the solar panels is then exported back to the grid unless the system also has battery storage in which case it would be used to charge the battery storage prior to exporting back to the grid.
In instances where there is excess power sent back to the grid, this can be exchanged for payment via your energy retailer by way of a “Feed in Tariff” (FIT), which can be anything up to around the $0.20/kWh mark currently.
More information on the operation of solar can be gained from the clean energy council here.
FAQ
What is a solar battery and what does it do? | In simple terms a solar battery is an energy storage device that is used in collaboration with a solar PV system. Solar batteries can help you make the most of your solar PV system and decrease your dependence on the DNSP network (Grid). Solar batteries store excess, unused energy that is being produced by your solar PV system during the hours of daylight and have it ready for use at night, during adverse weather (i.e. clouds), or during a power outage. Storing your self-generated solar energy means you can power your home with clean, green electricity around the clock. In addition you are protecting your home or business from ever rising electricity costs from retailers, as well as having the possibility to maintain supply power during a power outage and of course, doing your part to protect the environment from CO2 and climate change. | ||
How much do solar batteries cost? |
Solar battery storage systems can start from as little as just a couple of thousand dollars, depending on your system setup, battery capacity, as well as retailer and manufacturer. When looking at installing battery storage in your home, it’s worth ensuring that you have done your research and have selected a reputable and knowledgeable organisation. There are many different types of battery storage solution on the market currently in Australia and selecting the right one can be very confusing. The price point of batteries vary greatly from one type of technology to the next, and the cheapest option is not always the best or most suitable for your needs. At Concept, our experienced team will ensure that we guide you towards the best and most cost effective solution tailored to suit your needs. | ||
What is the life expectancy of a battery? | Most solar batteries are warranted for at least 10 years, but have expected lifespans exceeding that. Just like any electrical or mechanical component there are many factors that can effect the lifecycle of a solar battery, these include: - The type of technology that the solar battery is made from - The usage (how many charge cycles your battery is put through and how deep those cycles are will affect its lifespan) - Ambient Temperature (most batteries have parameters in which the battery must be kept within) - How well they are maintained (monitoring and maintaining your battery to ensure optimal health at all times is key) | ||
Is solar battery storage worth it? | Whether a solar battery is a worthwhile, beneficial addition to your solar system depends on a number of considerations. The driver behind your decision to opt for a solar battery can also have an impact on its worth. In areas where energy power outages are common-place, a solar PV system combined with a battery storage system that is capable of delivering back up power could be worth it’s weight in gold. In areas where energy rates are exceptionally high during peak times, a solar PV and battery storage solution could be a great financial investment and for those wishing to reduce their reliance on coal power in an attempt to help to save the planet, a battery system could be a great option. Each case is different and at Concept we treat each system as unique, we tailor our offerings to suit your needs and will never take a generic one shoe fits all approach to battery storage.
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