How To Pick The Best Solar Power System

How To Pick The Best Solar Power System


You'll see "kWh" referred to throughout this article. kWh stands for ‘kilowatt-hour.’ It is a unit of energy. It measures how much electricity is used over time. A typical Australian home uses 16-20 kWh of electricity per day.
Delving into the world of solar energy can be both exciting...and overwhelming. In this article, we will simplify the solar selection process by breaking it down into its four main components: panels, inverters, racking, and consumption monitors. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in the efficiency and effectiveness of your solar power system.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about each component, equipping you for conversations with solar power system installers. Through these conversations, you'll be able to pick the best solar power system for your circumstances.

How Does Your Home Use Solar Energy?

Before we jump into system components, it's helpful to grasp the two primary modes for your home's solar system. These modes can significantly impact your electricity bills and overall energy savings.

Mode #1: Surplus Solar Power Generation

In this mode, your residential solar power system generates more electricity than your home actually needs. Let's break it down:
  1. Imagine your solar system produces 4.4 kilowatts (kW) of electricity.
  2. Out of this, 0.9 kW is used to power your home's appliances and lights, and the surplus 3.5 kW flows back into the grid.
  3. Your utility company compensates you for this surplus energy through a 'feed-in tariff.' Depending on your location, feed-in tariffs can range from 0 to 15 cents per kilowatt-hour. This essentially means you're earning money by contributing excess electricity to the grid.

Mode #2: Grid Electricity Usage

In this mode, your home consumes more power than your solar system can generate at that moment. Here's how it works:
  1. Let's say your home requires 2.1 kW of electricity, but your solar system is currently producing only 1.8 kW. In this situation, the grid supplements your electricity needs by providing the extra 0.3 kW.
  2. It's important to note that you will be charged for the electricity you import from the grid during these periods.
The cost of grid electricity varies depending on your location and the time of day. In some places, you might pay between 13 to 39 cents per kilowatt-hour for grid electricity, while receiving around 6 cents for each kilowatt-hour of solar energy exported to the grid.
The solar energy you consume directly in your home is significantly more cost-effective than what you export.
This explains why it makes sense to schedule your appliances to run during daylight hours when your solar system is actively generating electricity. It also allows you to comfortably use energy-intensive appliances like air conditioners during the day, knowing that you're using your self-generated solar power, which is more economical than buying electricity from the grid.

Understanding these two modes of operation will help you make the most of your solar energy system and maximize your energy savings.

With those fundamental modes explained, let's dive into the components that make up a solar power system.

Brand Selection

The brand of your solar power system components plays a pivotal role in their efficiency and longevity. Through this article, we will list the brands renowned for their quality and reliable local support as highlighted by the reputable website SolarQuotes (1).

Each of the brands listed has proven its worth in the market with robust products and excellent customer service. It is recommended that you do you own research when choosing a brand, considering their track record, warranty terms, and customer support in your region. However, a SolarQuotes recommendation is an excellent shortcut if you're time poor.

Premium vs. Budget Brands

The choice between premium and budget brands often comes down to a balance between cost and quality. Premium brands tend to be more expensive but offer superior performance and longer warranties. For example, Sunpower Maxeon panels are known for maintaining 92% output after 25 years with a 40-year warranty. On the other hand, budget panel brands like Jinko offer more affordable options with a 25-year warranty and 87.4% output retention after the same period.

Making a Choice

If you feel unsure about how to navigate all the options, keep it simple. Get quotes from different installers, advising them of your budget. As long as their quote includes one of the brands on the list, you can proceed with confidence. A caveat for this is that it's really important to choose a good installer; more on this later.

Solar Panels

Solar panels consist of solar cells encased in durable glass and framed for installation, typically on roofs, to convert sunlight into electricity.

Solar Panel Types

The technology behind these panels has evolved, leading to various types. To keep things simple, 'monocrystalline half-cut' panels are currently the most popular due to their enhanced efficiency and shade tolerance.

Solar Panel Brands in Australia

In Australia, there are several reputable brands renowned for their quality and reliable local support. Reputable brands (from budget to premium) include: 
[Budget] Canadian Solar, Hyundai/TongWei, JA Solar, Jinkio, Longi, Phono, Risen, Solahart, Suntech, Trina 
[Mid-range] Q-Cells (Q.MAXX/Q.BOOST series), REC (N-Peak/Twinpeak series), SolarEdge, Sunpower (Performance series), Winaico
[Premium] Q-Cells (DUO series), REC (Alpha series), Solahart (Silhouette series), Sunpower (Maxeon series), Tindo

Solar Inverters

Types of Solar Inverters

Solar power systems primarily use two types of inverters:

1. String Inverters: Roughly the size of carry-on luggage, they are installed on a wall and connecting to all solar panels.



2. Microinverters: Similar in size to an A5 notebook, these are attached to the back or side of each solar panel.



Additionally, there's a hybrid option, 'power optimizers', combining aspects of both string inverters and microinverters.

Choosing an Inverter Type

The following considerations should help you ask for the right type of inverter when getting quotes from solar installers:
  1. Inverters, particularly string inverters, are likely to be the first component to fail within 10-15 years due to constant operation. Investing in a mid-range or high-end inverter is recommended for longer-lasting performance. A high-end inverter like Fronius may cost about $1000 more than a budget option like Goodwe.
Installation warning: String inverters installed in direct sunlight are likely to fail sooner due to overheating and UV damage. There may also be potential warranty issues.
  1. Microinverters operate at lower voltages, enhancing safety in case of installation faults. However, good installation practices and regular inspections can mitigate risks with string inverters.
  2. Microinverters are more expensive than string inverters but offer superior performance in certain aspects, especially in handling shade. However, some high-end string systems now have advanced algorithms to handle shade effectively.
  3. Power Optimizers present a middle-ground solution, offering some microinverter benefits while utilizing a string inverter.
  4. Opt for optimiser or microinverter systems if budget permits, as they typically cost around $2000 more than basic inverter systems but offer added benefits.

Solar Inverter Brands in Australia

As with solar panels, there are several reputable brands renowned for their quality and reliable local support. Reputable brands (from budget to premium) recommended by SolarQuotes include: 
[Budget] Goodwe, REdback, Solis, Sunways
[Mid-range] Delta, GE, Fimer, Sungrow
[Premium] MIL-Solar, Fronius, Enphase (microinverters), SMA, SolarEdge
In general, if an installer proposes a brand from this list you can have confidence. As before, we do advise doing your own research and find up to date reviews for each brand to make an informed choice, but the SolarQuotes recommendations are your shortcut.

Racking/Mounting

When installing solar panels, the choice of racking — the system that attaches the panels to your roof — is a crucial consideration. Here are the key practical points to understand:
  1. Brands: There's a diverse range of racking brands available. Despite the variety, most racking systems are fundamentally similar, primarily consisting of aluminum components. Reputable brands (from budget to premium) recommended by SolarQuotes include: 
[Budget] Hopergy, Titan Solar, Grasol/Grace Solar
[Mid-range] Clenergy, Reddot, Schletter
[Premium] Sunlock, Radiant
  1. Price Differences: The cost difference between budget and premium racking brands is notable. On average, opting for a premium brand can add about $100 per kilowatt to the total installation cost.
  2. Ease of Installation: The main differentiator among racking brands is the ease of installation, particularly on challenging roof types. This factor can significantly influence the installation process and time.
Often the racking will be bundled with your panels, inverter and monitoring device as a package by your installer. As mentioned previously, a shortcut is to cross-check the SolarQuotes racking brand list to make sure it is recommended.

Consumption Monitors

Consumption monitors are important for efficient energy management. These devices, typically priced around $500, are installed in your switchboard to monitor electricity flow to and from the grid.

The Benefits of Using Consumption Monitors

  1. Enhanced Visibility: With a consumption monitor, your monitoring app displays both energy production and consumption. This dual insight allows you to see not only how much energy your system is producing but also how much your home is using at any given time.
  2. Optimal Energy Management: The real-time data enables you to identify when your home is consuming 'free' electricity generated by your solar system, versus when it's drawing from the grid. 
  3. Maximizing Savings: By understanding your energy consumption patterns, you can adjust your usage to capitalize on the free energy produced, leading to significant cost savings.
In summary, the investment in a consumption monitor is worthwhile for the substantial insights and savings it offers in solar energy utilization.

Putting It All Together

Choosing the right solar power system for your home involves a careful consideration of its four main components: panels, inverters, racking, and consumption monitors. By understanding the nuances of each, you are now equipped to make an informed decision that balances quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Remember, the ideal solar setup isn't just about harnessing the sun's energy; it's about integrating a system that aligns with your specific energy needs and lifestyle. Make sure you consult with professionals and leverage their expertise to tailor a system that maximizes your investment. You'll be able to use the pointers in this article and other from our Knowledge Base to have constructive conversations and make sure you're dealing with a trustworthy installer.

If you're wondering about the cost/benefit of solar, have a look at our article, "How Much Will Solar Cost and How Much Will I Save?"

As we mentioned above, getting the right installer is critical if you are getting solar. Find out more with our article, "How to Avoid A Bad Solar Installation"

You'll need an up-to-date switchboard if you're getting solar installed. Find out if you need an upgrade with our article, "Will I need to upgrade my switchboard?"

Want to fast-track home electrification? Join an Energy Freedom Homes Masterclass and learn to identify your needs, gain expert installation advice, and meet trustworthy tradespeople. Check your Masterclass readiness now!

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