Is it worth getting solar panels in Perth?
Is the investment in a solar, or PV, system really worth the money?
With our city well-known for its long summers and long daylight hours, we have seen a strong increase in demand for solar panels and photovoltaic (PV) systems. As one of Perth’s most popular installers of PV systems, one of the most frequently asked questions we get, is it really worth it to get solar panels?
It depends on a number of factors, and we explore these more in our article The Basics of Choosing a PV System, but in short, yes, it’s usually worth investing in a photovoltaic system as a Perth home or business owner.
In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of having solar panels in Perth, the return on investment you should expect, and if you haven’t already, why you should consider making the switch to solar power.
Benefits of Solar Panels in Perth
The solar irradiance levels in Perth rank among the highest globally, making it an optimal spot for generating solar energy. The extended daily sunshine of about 8 hours on average allows homeowners to generate substantial energy from their solar panels, leading to decreased dependence on the power grid and cost savings on energy bills.
Apart from financial gains, solar panels present an eco-friendly alternative that produces clean and sustainable energy, lowering one’s carbon footprint and contributing towards the fight against climate change. By transitioning to solar power, you play a role in safeguarding the planet while simultaneously benefiting from reduced energy costs.
Return on Investment
Investing in solar panels in Perth can be a significant upfront cost, but it’s important to consider the long-term return on investment. With Western Australia’s feed-in tariff program, homeowners can sell excess energy generated by their solar panels back to the grid, earning a credit on their energy bill.
Over time, the savings on energy bills and potential earnings from the feed-in tariff program can offset the initial investment, leading to significant long-term savings. The exact return on investment for your home or business will depend on several factors, including the size of your PV system and your energy consumption habits, but generally it’s agreed that, at current panel and energy prices, solar panels in Perth offer a solid return on investment and should pay themselves off within about 4-8 years.
Solar Panel Cost and Installation
The cost of having your PV system installed naturally varies based on the size of your home and the system you’ll be going with, the type and country of manufacture of the panels you choose, and the installers you’re using. An average 6.6kW residential system can be fully installed from anywhere between $11,000-$15,000 before Government rebates, subsidies or seasonal deals. You’ll find that sometimes you can get a better deal for your PV system towards the start of winter as seasonal demand beings to wane; but you didn’t hear that from us.
The process of installing solar panels involves assessing the energy needs of your home, selecting the right panels, and arranging for the installation. For most residential 6.6kW systems we can usually complete installation within one day, with business and commercial projects taking a few days to a few weeks.
Energy Savings with Solar Panels
Typically, the main reason people first start looking at getting panels on their home or business is to start saving money on your power bill, so let’s look at that.
By generating your own electricity, you can significantly reduce your bi-monthly energy bills as long as your energy consumption habits change to use your own power.
The amount you save will depend on the size of your solar panel system and the amount of electricity you use. On average, homeowners can expect to save between $500 and $1,000 per year on their energy bills. In addition, solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25-30 years, meaning you can enjoy energy savings for many years to come. Generally, we say to customers that they should aim to have their solar system repaid within 4-8 years.
Why You Should Consider Solar Panels in Perth
If you’re still on the fence about investing in solar panels in Perth, here are a few reasons to consider making the switch to solar power:
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Reduced energy costs: With the potential to generate your own energy and sell excess energy back to the grid, you can significantly reduce your energy bills over time.
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Environmental benefits: Solar power is clean and renewable, reducing your carbon footprint and helping to combat climate change.
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Increased home value: Homes with solar panels are more attractive to buyers and can fetch a higher price on the market.
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Energy independence: With solar panels, you’ll be less reliant on the grid and less affected by energy price fluctuations and outages.
Solar Panel Maintenance and Upkeep
Solar panels require minimal maintenance, but it is important to keep them clean and free of debris to ensure they are operating at max efficiency. Most manufacturers offer warranties for the panels, and they typically last for 25-30 years. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of the panels and ensure they continue to generate electricity efficiently. The cost of maintenance varies, but it is typically low, and most homeowners can expect to pay around $100 to $150 per year for maintenance and upkeep.
Conclusion
So, is it worth getting solar panels in Perth? With our lengthy days and mostly blue skies, WA is the ideal location for generating power from solar.
Solar panels are a great investment for homeowners as well as businesses who are looking to switch to renewable energy, reduce their carbon footprint, and start saving on power bills.
With the energy savings they offer, the minimal maintenance required, and the financing options available, solar panels are a smart choice for those looking to reduce their energy bills and contribute to a greener future. If you’re considering installing solar panels, be sure to research the cost, financing options, and potential ROI before making a decision.