Rooftop solar system average size climbs higher
Australian households and businesses are searching for greater energy independence According to the latest report from the Australian Energy Council, the average size of rooftop solar systems installed in Australia has climbed to a new high of 9.3 kW. And it seems the the trend upwards is still continuing with the average size in Q1 of 2023 being 8.7 kW, and well above the acknowledged norm of 6.6 kW. However, it’s important to note that this figure (9.3 kW) does vary by state as shown in table 1 below, with some areas reporting slightly higher or lower averages due to specific energy demands and policies. The Council reported that the growth of system size in recent years is a testament to how Australian households and businesses are keen to take advantage of technology advancements and decreasing costs in the market in their search for greater energy independence. Battery installations with rooftop solar By the end of the Q2 of 2023, there were 10,067 new rooftop PV installations equipped with batteries registered to the Clean Energy Regulator (CER). When comparing states: QLD led the way in the second quarter with 2,381 new PV installations equipped with batteries, followed by VIC with 2,220 new combined installations, and then NSW with 1,897 new installations. Collectively, the Eastern Australian states account for an impressive 85.5 per cent of the country’s total installations of rooftop solar and batteries. It is clear that the increasing popularity of rooftop solar, plus the desire for greater energy independence, have contributed to the rise in average of system sizes and battery uptake. Go Aussie, Aussie, Aussie! Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your electrification journey is as efficient and seamless as possible. You can look forward to paying less on your electricity bills when combining a UNIfied solar system with a powerful battery/storage. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
Get an additional $750 rebate when you install a Tesla Powerwall*
*For a LIMITED TIME ONLY. Get an ADDITIONAL $750 REBATE from Tesla when you install a Tesla Powerwall between now and 31st December 2023. Batteries are such a great way to store excess #solarenergy so that you can use it when the sun isn’t shining. A Tesla Powerwall reduces your reliance on the electricity grid by storing your solar energy, detects outages and automatically becomes your home’s energy source when the grid goes down. Unlike generators, a solar battery like a Tesla Powerwall will keep your lights on and phones charged without upkeep, fuel or noise. Pair it with solar from UNIfied Energy and recharge with sunlight to keep your appliances running for days. Access Solar Victoria Interest Free Loan of $8800 Did you know that Solar Victoria has approximately 4,500 interest loans available, offering up to $8,800, for #solarbattery installations? Repayments can be made over a four-year period, making the $$$ savings even more generous. For a FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE, click here. Turbo charge your electrification journey and energy independence today! Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your electrification journey is as efficient and seamless as possible. You can look forward to paying less on your electricity bills when combining a UNIfied solar system with a Tesla Powerwall. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
What is electrification?
The role of energy efficiency and electrification in decarbonising Australia is crucial to support a net zero economy by 2050. To achieve Australia’s target of reducing carbon emissions by 43% by 2030 alone, we will need to reduce emissions by 157 million tonnes! And right now, we are not in the necessary path. Nowhere near fast enough. What is electrification? Electrification involves replacing technologies that use fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) with technologies that use electricity instead as a source of energy. Electric appliances and any electric equipment around the home not only enable the use of renewable electricity, but they’re more energy efficient than gas appliances. Common household initiatives and appliances you should consider as part of your electrification journey include: solar panels reverse cycle air conditioner / heater a heat pump or solar hot water system electric cooktop For example, by switching to heat pump technology for your air conditioner and/or heater and hot water system, you are likely to save 3 to 4 times heat energy usage. This means the emissions savings are realised from both energy efficiency and renewable energy usage. Using energy efficiency and electrification to reduce emissions is available now and almost always cost effective, giving us a better chance of achieving our emission reduction targets, while also saving money. And the good news is Government rebates are available to help you with making the transition. Savings at home $$$ Did you know that Australia is ranked worst in the developed world of energy efficiency? This means collectively as a nation, powering our appliances and making sure our homes are not too cold or hot takes so much more energy than it should. Many Australians are experiencing bill stress. Read our article on this topic recently. A modelling by the Australian Council of Social Service and Brotherhood of St Laurence found a one-off capital investment of around $5,000 for a residential house (either through solar installation, heat pump hot water system or reverse cycle air conditioner/heater) can result in an average saving of more than $1,000 each year. This means energy efficiency upgrades often pay for themselves within a few years, creating a saving for homeowners well into the future. Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your electrification journey is as efficient and seamless as possible. Get your FREE, NO-OBLIGATION quote for a tailored solar solution so you can enjoy paying less for your electricity bills. And at the same time, find out how you can save more with upgrading to the heat pump hot water system! Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
Benefits of adding solar to your commercial investment property
By harnessing the power of solar energy, commercial landlords are: Maximising cost savings Contributing to environmental sustainability Increasing property value and Meeting market & community demand. Let’s uncover the many benefits of installing solar and batteries on your commercial investment property. Maximising cost savings One of the biggest outgoings for commercial leases is electricity. Installing a solar PV system and storage on your commercial investment property can help offset a significant portion of the property’s energy consumption, leading to long-term savings on utility bills. Incorporating electricity bills into the tenancy agreement is a great way to nullify the initial cost of the system too. More importantly, tenants will be happy to avoid rising energy costs, and over time your independence off the grid has the potential to make you money. Contributing to environmental sustainability In general, solar-powered properties have a competitive advantage from competitors in the rental market, and make the property a more desirable asset. As a landlord, you can promote your environmentally-friendly practices and attract businesses that align with your sustainability goals, especially for businesses that consume a lot of energy. Businesses and tenants are increasingly prioritising sustainability practices high on their ESG agenda, as well as looking for ways to avoid the burden of rising energy costs. Increasing property value Installing solar on your commercial investment property is a long-term investment that can continue to provide benefits over many years, including ongoing cost savings and potential resale value. Every business wants to cut its overhead cost. Overhead cost includes expenses outside of wages and operational materials, and one significant overhead expense is electricity. The average business can reduce their electrical overhead by circa 70% and this saving can start immediately after converting to solar power and will continue for the rest of the system’s life. But the relationship of the value of your property is directly proportional to the size of your solar panel. This means a more extensive system with a larger solar capacity can lead to an increase in your land’s value. Secondly, the greatest value increase in property would come from the ownership of your property and the solar system in place. If you were to own the system outright, it has the tendency to enhance the value of your property more than if you were to lease the solar system. Meeting market & community demand The clean energy revolution is at a tipping point. Energy costs are increasing to unprecedented levels, so these prevailing tailwinds are positioning solar to be the renewable energy standard. Transitioning to solar power is a simple and cost-effective way companies can improve their ESG performance while benefiting their bottom line. It is now the norm – sustainability attracts customers, investors, and lenders. Customers are often willing to pay a little bit more to buy from a company they believe supports their values. Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your renewable energy transition is as efficient and seamless as possible. We are here to help households, businesses and landlords pay less for their electricity bills. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
SA Businesses – You may be eligible for a FREE LED upgrade!
Have you ever wanted to switch to LED but are worried about the cost you’ll incur? No worries! The South Australian government has changed their Retail Energy Productivity Scheme Subsidy (REPS) to help upgrade old, inefficient lighting to LED for SA-based businesses. A revision to the program caters to large energy users and mixed-use sites alike which means more South Australian businesses are now eligible to use this scheme. This will be a significant help to reduce the cost for businesses as the subsidy will cover between 50 – 80% of the supply and installation costs of the new LED fittings, depending on existing fitting and building type. More importantly, this program will give a higher Return-on-Investment (ROI) for businesses looking to switch their lighting to LED as LED typically uses around 70% less energy than traditional lighting. Coupled with large subsidies, most payback periods we have seen is as short as 12 months. Not only will the upgrades have a high impact on your bottom line, they will help you to both lowering your carbon emissions and improving working conditions. Below are some examples of savings across different site types. Large manufacturing site: Pre-subsidy upgrade cost $180,446.74 Value of discount ($137,430.55) Residual cost to pay $43,016.19 Payback period 9 months Large warehouse with a small office: Pre-subsidy upgrade cost $134,315.84 Value of discount ($111,618.34) Residual cost to pay $22,697.51 Payback period 5 months Medium car repair centre: Pre-subsidy upgrade cost $16,266.98 Value of discount ($11,920.83) Residual cost to pay $4,346.15 Payback period 7 months For more information about the subsidies, visit https://www.escosa.sa.gov.au/industry/reps/overview# Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your renewable energy transition is as efficient and seamless as possible. We are here to help you pay less for your electricity bills. If you’re interested, UNIfied Energy can offer you an assessment by our accredited lighting auditor and provide your business with an energy savings proposal with no charge or obligation to sign up. But, remember, act fast! Because they are using certificate-based payment and there are only limited certificates in the market, so grab them now while it lasts. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
It’s winter – do solar panels work on cloudy days?
For those of us living in the southern part of Australia, winter often means a lot of cloudy days. But let’s face it; there are clouds, and then there are serious clouds! Solar panels still work on cloudy days but with reduced output Solar panels do still work on cloudy days, but the production of energy is generally lower than during a bright sunny day. It’s estimated that solar panels only produce as low as 15 – 25% of their potential electricity output during those dark and dreary, cloudy days. However, at times you will get cloudy days that are still bright with good light penetration. Cloud cover with good light penetration can have a similar power output to a regular sunny day. Energy production from solar panels There are a number of factors that determine energy production from your solar panels. In reality, it’s a mix bag of the following! Solar panel type Light penetration Density of cloud cover Angle of the sun Contrary to popular belief, solar panels don’t actually like really hot days. When the solar panels themselves get too hot, it can reduce their efficiency and power output. The ideal environment for solar panels is cooler weather with the full sun high in the sky. This will ensure maximum energy output. When the sun is highest in the sky it has less atmosphere to travel through so more light reaches the panels. This is usually any time between 10am – 2pm. However, solar panels can also work well up to around 4pm. Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your renewable energy transition is as efficient and seamless as possible. We are here to help you pay less for your electricity bills. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
Save up to $2,400 when you install solar and heat pump hot water!
Did you know that part of Solar Victoria‘s Solar Homes Program, Victorian households can save up to $2,400 when installing BOTH solar and an energy-efficient heat pump hot water system? Installing solar is like the old Chinese proverb, The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second best time is now! And hot water systems are one of the biggest energy users in the home, bearing significant impact on household energy bills. With the alarming rise of energy costs worldwide, why not lower your energy costs and take advantage of these Government rebates by installing both solar and heat pump hot water system? 💰 Plus there’s also the option of an interest-free loan from Solar Victoria as well. Making these upgrades will help you slash your energy bills and increase your independence from the grid. Rebates for solar panels Solar Victoria is providing a rebate to homeowners with existing homes, homes under construction and rental properties of up to $1,400 for solar panel (PV) system installation. To further reduce installation costs, eligible Victorians can apply for an interest-free loan. This amount is equivalent to their maximum rebate amount (which is $1,400), and the loan is required to be repaid over four years or can be repaid sooner in one lump sum. Rebates for energy-efficient hot water system The hot water rebate of up to $1,000 is available on energy-efficient heat pump hot water system. Rebates will remain at $1,000 for the FY23-24. Solar Homes Program is supporting eligible households to save even more. As a renewable energy specialist since 2012, the UNIfied Energy Team can help you with your solar and hot water system needs. Get your quote for both solar and heat pump hot water today! Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your renewable energy transition is as efficient and seamless as possible. We are here to help you pay less for your electricity bills. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
Energy bill relief fund
The cost of living crunch is real The Australian government announced in early May 2023, as part of the Federal Budget, a $500 energy bill relief payment for eligible households in a bid to ease the financial burden on many Australians who are struggling with high power bills. Eligible small businesses will get up to $650. With peak electricity tariffs in some states going from $0.29 to nearly $0.60 from 1 July 2023 – the cost of living crunch is real and it is happening right now, particularly in relation to housing. Energy bills have become a major concern for many households across the country. This $500 energy bill relief payment is such a welcome relief for eligible households however, this relief payment is a one-off payment. This means eligibility criteria may vary depending on where you live and this is not an ongoing support program. What you need to do if you’re eligible for this payment Households are not required to do anything right now if you’re eligible for this relief payment. In most cases, your electricity provider will automatically apply this bill relief to your account, reducing the amount you owe on your next payment. Please note that where you reside determines how and when this occurs. Each state and territory may handle things differently, so it is best to contact your electricity provider/retailer. Here’s what eligible households and small businesses will get in each state and territory. ACT: Households – will receive a $175 annual energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses – will be able to access a $325 rebate NSW: Households – will receive a $500 energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses – will be able to access a $650 rebate Northern Territory: Households: will receive a $350 annual energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses: will be able to access a $650 rebate Queensland: Households: will receive a $500 annual energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses: will be able to access a $650 rebate South Australia Households: will receive a $500 annual energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses: will be able to access a $650 rebate Tasmania: Households: will receive $250 per annum for two years Small businesses: will receive a total bill credit of $650 for 2023-24 Victoria: Households: will receive a $250 annual energy rebate on their power bills, in addition to the $250 Power Saving Bonus already open to all Victorians, providing $500 worth of bill relief in total Small businesses: will be able to access a $325 rebate Western Australia: Households: will receive a $350 energy rebate on their power bills Small businesses: will be able to access a $650 rebate Please visit www.energy.gov.au for more information. Solar power is the future We live in one of the best locations in the world when it comes to solar power, with some of the highest solar radiation levels on the planet. This is an opportunity for households to save money on energy, and with payback period getting down as low as 3 years, it really is a no-brainer. Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your transition to net zero is as efficient and seamless as possible. Get your FREE, NO-OBLIGATION quote for a tailored solar solution so you can enjoy paying less for your electricity bills. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
Federal government announces $100 million local community energy efficiency fund
“Our government is determined to seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity and transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower. Our nation will only grow and prosper if all three levels of government – local, state and federal – work together to deliver policies and programs for the the community,” Mr Albanese said. The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, announced the Community Energy Upgrades Fund in a speech to the nation’s local councils convention earlier today 16th June 2023. What this means for local community facilities The funding will help community facilities such as libraries, swimming pools and other sporting centres to decarbonise, reduce energy bills and boost their energy independence. Under this initiative, local councils can upgrade pool heating systems, lighting for sports grounds and courts to LED lights, and fund new storage technology – such as solar batteries – at community centres and libraries. It will partner with the Australian Local Government Association to get the maximum value for every project, and it is anticipated that the program will be running before the end of the year. What this means for ratepayers Ratepayers’ hip pockets could expect relief with Energy Minister, Chris Bowen, saying councils can reduce their energy bills dramatically with savings from the transition. “Councils receive big energy bills. They have no choice sometimes but to pass them on through rate increases so this will help them avoid those rate increases by reducing their energy bills.” Why choose UNIfied Energy Services? At UNIfied, we provide commercial LED lighting, solar power and solar batteries for a wide range of industries including state and local government sectors. We’re Australia’s #1 full-service LED and solar specialist. Trusted experts since 2012 with over 3 million LEDs and over 37,000 solar installed. Assessed and installed by our team of experts in the field. Guaranteed high-quality: ISO certified. Start saving now and enjoy the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy with UNIfied! Call: 1300 817 847 or contact us via the website form.
Bill Stress Index highlights the toll of soaring energy costs!
An alarming number of Australians are experiencing significant bill stress. According to the Bill Stress Index report from Compare Club, it’s clear that our year-long interest rate hikes have clearly taken a toll, together with the soaring cost of energy. What keeps Australians awake at night when it comes to bills When the study asked what bills are causing the most stress: Mortgages topped the table (at 27%), followed by Utilities second (at 23%). Around one in five of us are also stressed about health insurance and car loans. Source: Compare Club Bill Stress Index May 2023. Be proactive and compare providers to get the best savings Let’s be proactive. Don’t be afraid to compare providers regularly to ensure you get the best deal based on your energy usage. Just like we all shop around for the best home loan from providers, we should shop around for the best offer from energy retailers to achieve some cost savings. Some energy providers offer discounted rates for new customers, which is a strong incentive to switch. Whatever the case, be sure to asses your usage and shop around for the best deal you can find especially if you’re thinking of installing solar power. Solar power is the future We live in one of the best locations in the world when it comes to solar power, with some of the highest solar radiation levels on the planet. This is an opportunity for households to save money on energy, and with payback period getting down as low as 3 years, it really is a no-brainer. Why UNIfied? At UNIfied, we are here to ensure your transition to net zero is as efficient and seamless as possible. Get your FREE, NO-OBLIGATION quote for a tailored solar solution so you can enjoy paying less for your electricity bills. Contact UNIfied today or call 1300 817 847 to achieve greater savings in these precarious times, and start your journey of clean energy living!
