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Solar Energy FAQs

Gold Coast Energy > Residential Solar > Solar Energy FAQs

Solar Energy FAQs

Welcome to Gold Coast Energy’s FAQ section, where we address common queries about our services, solar products, installation processes, and more. Our goal is to provide clear and comprehensive answers to help you make informed decisions about your solar energy needs. Whether you are considering a solar power system, need details about the installation, or have questions about warranties and insurance, you’ll find valuable information here. If you need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

About Gold Coast Energy

What is your service area?

Gold Coast Energy serves South East Queensland, including the entire Gold Coast region and Northern NSW. Our service area includes suburbs such as Arundel, Ashmore, Benowa, Bilinga, Broadbeach Waters, Bundall, Burleigh Heads, Carrara, Coolangatta, Currumbin, Elanora, Helensvale, Labrador, Main Beach, Mermaid Beach, Merrimac, Miami, Mudgeeraba, Nerang, Oxenford, Pacific Pines, Palm Beach, Parkwood, Pimpama, Reedy Creek, Robina, Runaway Bay, Southport, Tallebudgera, Tugun, Upper Coomera, and Varsity Lakes, as well as Northern NSW suburbs like Tweed Heads, Banora Point, Kingscliff, and Terranora. We also cover the south side of Brisbane, as far west as Beaudesert, and as far south as Byron Bay.

What solar products do you offer?

We provide a variety of solar products, including high-efficiency solar panels, such as Trina Sonar, reliable inverters such as GoodWe, Fronius and Enphase, and advanced battery storage systems from top brands like Tesla Powerwall and GoodWe, Delta, BYD.

Why should I choose Gold Coast Energy?

With over 15 years of experience, we offer local expertise, accredited installers, high-quality products, transparent pricing, a wide range of battery brands, and exceptional customer support. Our team is dedicated to providing tailored energy solutions and lifelong support.

Who is your solar installer?

At Gold Coast Energy, we only employ CEC accredited installation personnel, adhering to Australian Government Solar Credits approval conditions and regulations. Our installers are professional, well-presented, and ensure your home is treated with care during installation. They are fully qualified and experienced in the solar industry. All installations are reviewed and finalized by our senior electrical engineers, ensuring everything is correct, neat, and tidy.

What Warranties Are Included with Gold Coast Energy?

At Gold Coast Energy, we offer comprehensive warranties to safeguard your investment and ensure peace of mind. Here are the details of our warranty coverage, which may vary depending on the product chosen:

  • 10-Year Inverter Warranty: Our inverters are covered by a 10-year warranty. A Wi-Fi connection is needed to keep this extended warranty valid.
    10-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty on Battery Systems: Our battery systems come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty, ensuring protection against defects and reliable performance. A Wi-Fi connection is needed to keep this extended warranty valid.
  • Trina Solar Panels Warranty: Trina Solar panels feature a 25-year product warranty covering material or manufacturing defects and a 30-year performance warranty guaranteeing long-term efficiency and reliability. These panels typically have a lifespan of 30 to 40 years, providing decades of renewable energy.
  • 10-Year Workmanship Warranty: We stand by the quality of our installations with a 10-year workmanship warranty. As an Approved CEC Solar Retailer, we provide installation protection and align ourselves with the Clean Energy Council’s standards.

Solar Installation

What is the installation process?

  1. Consultation: We begin with an initial consultation to assess your energy needs and evaluate your property’s suitability for solar panel installation. This includes reviewing your current electricity usage, roof structure, and potential shading issues.
  2. System Design: Based on the consultation, we design a customized solar system tailored to your specific requirements. This includes selecting the appropriate panels, inverters, and any additional components.
    Approval and Permits: We handle all necessary permits and approvals required for the installation process, ensuring compliance with local regulations and standards.
  3. Installation: Our professional installers will then carry out the installation of your solar system. This includes securely mounting the solar panels on your roof, installing the inverter, and connecting the system to your home’s electrical network.
  4. System Testing: Once installed, we thoroughly test the system to ensure it is operating correctly and efficiently. This includes checking the performance of each component and ensuring the system is safely integrated with your home’s electrical setup.
  5. Ongoing Support: Post-installation, we offer ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your system continues to operate efficiently. Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide assistance as needed.

What do I need for a solar proposal?

To provide an accurate and customized solar proposal, we need the following:

Electricity Bill: A photo of your electricity bill helps us understand your energy usage and design a system that maximizes your savings. If you’re a new homeowner without a bill, an estimated power usage will work.
Switchboard Photo: A photo of your switchboard allows us to assess your electrical setup and plan the installation process.
Site-Specific Details: Information about shading, obstructions, or other factors affecting panel performance, such as trees or nearby buildings.

Providing these details enables us to create a proposal that optimizes your investment in solar energy. If necessary, our team may conduct a site visit, though most assessments can be completed using advanced solar software.

How Can I Prepare for Solar Installation on a New Build?

When building a new home, consider these steps to facilitate future solar installation:

  • Roof Space: Ideally, allocate space on the north-facing roof for at least 15 solar panels. For instance, each Trina Solar 440W panels measures approximately 2102mm x 1040mm, requiring about 32m² for a 6.6 kW system. If you are predicting large energy usage, ensure additional roof space for a larger system. Take into account that panels on east or west-facing roofs lose about 15% efficiency compared to north-facing ones.
  • System Sizing: Without historical power usage data, opt for common sizes like 6.6 kW or 13.3 kW systems. For single-storey homes, installation is straightforward post-build. For two-storey homes, consult with us during construction to integrate necessary work.

Preparation Tips:

  • Reserve wall space in the garage or a shaded (south-facing) wall for the inverter.
  • Ensure a strong WiFi signal near the inverter or add a data point for reliable monitoring.
  • Install smart appliances to maximize self-consumption, running during peak solar production.
  • Focus on energy efficiency by building with good insulation to reduce overall consumption and enhance long-term savings.

By planning these aspects, you can ensure a seamless solar installation process and maximize the benefits of your solar system.

 

Will I need a new meter?

Typically, you won’t need a new meter. However, if you have an older accumulation meter (with a spinning disk), it may need to be upgraded to an interval or smart meter. Accumulation meters cannot track the energy you export to the grid or the electricity you import from it. Interval and smart meters, on the other hand, provide detailed half-hourly readings of your electricity usage and the surplus energy you generate, ensuring accurate data for billing.

The cost of a new meter varies depending on your location and the electricity distributor or retailer in your area. Typically, expenses for a new meter, its installation, or a reprogramming callout range from $100 to $300. Please note that this cost and service are not included in Gold Coast Energy’s quotation and scope of works.

Will my panels be covered by insurance?

Yes, your solar panels are generally covered by your home insurance policy. However, it’s important to inform your insurance company about the solar PV installation. For insurance purposes, the value should be based on the total cost before any rebates are applied. This ensures your panels are adequately covered.

Solar System Basics

What is Solar PV?

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight directly into electricity. They capture the sun’s energy efficiently and quietly, transforming light energy into electrical energy through a process involving semiconductor crystals. This conversion happens at the cellular level within the panels, utilizing the energy from photons in sunlight.

Solar panels generate electricity during the day, particularly when demand is highest on hot, sunny days due to air conditioning use. They produce electricity at the point of consumption, eliminating the need for long-distance energy transfer over expensive infrastructure.

What are the benefits of Solar Energy Systems?

Now is an excellent time to install a solar power system for your home, thanks to significant discounts from the Solar Credits Scheme. Solar energy systems are long-lasting, with lifespans exceeding 25 years, making them a sound investment to reduce future electricity bills and increase property value.

  • Renewable Energy: Solar power provides clean, emissions-free electricity, helping mitigate climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
  • Cost Savings: The Solar Credits Scheme offers substantial upfront discounts, sometimes covering up to 70% of a 1.5kWp system’s cost, though this decreases with larger systems.
  • Feed-In Tariffs (FiTs): FiTs pay for electricity fed back into the grid, varying by state, and can significantly offset evening electricity costs.
  • Quality and Support: Gold Coast Energy provides high-quality, competitively priced solar systems installed by CEC Accredited Installers, backed by robust technical support. Our customizable systems cater to various needs, ensuring optimal performance and savings.

Contact Gold Coast Energy today to explore how our solar solutions can benefit you. Enjoy the long-term savings and environmental benefits of renewable energy with a reliable, expertly installed solar power system.

What if I have shading?

Shading, whether full or partial, significantly reduces the output of PV panels. Systems shaded for more than 2-3 hours between sunrise and sunset should be avoided. However, solutions are available to mitigate shading effects, typically adding about 20% to the system cost. Options include microinverters or power optimizers, which enhance performance even when parts of the system are shaded.

For personalized advice and solutions to shading issues, contact Gold Coast Energy to ensure optimal performance of your solar installation.

How do I know if my house is suitable for solar panels?

Your home is likely suitable for solar panels if it has a pitched roof with a predominantly northerly aspect, an inclination between 20° and 30°, and at least 12m² of unobstructed, shade-free space throughout the day. If unsure, our team can assist you in assessing your roof’s suitability. This can usually be determined through a telephone interview and advanced solar software. For complex roof designs, a site inspection may be necessary and will be scheduled at your convenience.

Keep in mind that panels should fit within the roof boundaries, with tiled roofs requiring edges at least 150-200mm from the closest ridge tile.

For flat or very low-pitched roofs (below 10 degrees), it’s recommended to install a frame to elevate the panels to about a 30-degree pitch. This additional expense is offset by the improved system performance achieved at the optimal tilt angle.

What if my roof is not facing North? My roof faces East-West

Your roof doesn’t need to face due north to be suitable for solar panels. A roof oriented 45 degrees off north experiences only about a 7% loss in efficiency. Even with an east-west orientation, the efficiency loss is approximately 12-16%. This means that solar energy systems can still be highly effective on east-west facing roofs, allowing you to benefit from solar power even without a north-facing roof.

When choosing a solar energy system size, it’s important to consider the following:

  1. Legislation Requirements:
    • Single-phase power homes are limited to systems no larger than 10kW.
    • Three-phase power homes have no size restrictions.
  2. Key Factors:
    • Available roof space for installation.
    • Budget and individual energy needs.
    • Desired offset of current electricity usage.
    • System capacity limits set by state regulations and retailer feed-in tariff schemes.

Gold Coast Energy will assess all relevant factors and calculate potential savings to recommend the most suitable system size for your home.

Are your inverters weatherproof?

All inverters provided by Gold Coast Energy are weatherproof with an IP65 rating, meaning they can be installed on external walls. However, it’s best to place them in areas sheltered from rain and direct sunlight to prevent extreme temperatures from affecting their internal components. Alternatively, inverters can be installed indoors as long as there is adequate ventilation to ensure proper cooling and longevity.

Can I upgrade or expand my solar system?

Yes, you can upgrade or expand your solar system by adding more PV panels and a larger capacity inverter. It is generally more cost-effective to plan for expansion from the outset to avoid additional installation charges later.

Gold Coast Energy can help determine the feasibility of an upgrade or expansion. Before proceeding, it’s recommended to check with your previous supplier/installer to ensure that using another provider won’t void the existing warranty.

Does my solar system require servicing?

Yes, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your solar system operates at its best. Like any long-term investment, proper upkeep is necessary to maximize returns. Regular cleaning of the panels is essential to maintain optimal output. As part of the agreement with the Australian Government, solar panels must produce at least 80% efficiency for the first 10 years after installation. If they fall below this level, you are entitled to have them replaced under warranty.

Will my solar panels provide electricity during a blackout?

During a blackout, standard solar panels will not provide electricity unless paired with a specific type of battery storage system, such as a hybrid or off-grid inverter system. These systems can store excess energy and supply power during outages. Without them, solar inverters shut down to prevent electricity from feeding into the grid, ensuring the safety of repair crews. If maintaining power during blackouts is important, consider investing in a compatible battery storage system. Our team can help you find the right option for your needs.

Financial Information

What is the feed-in tariff?

The feed-in tariff is a payment made by electricity retailers to solar system owners for the excess energy they generate and feed back into the grid. It incentivizes the use of renewable energy by providing financial benefits for surplus solar power. The rate and terms of the feed-in tariff can vary depending on your electricity provider and location.

To start receiving a feed-in tariff for your solar system, contact Your Electricity Retailer to ask about their feed-in tariff rates and the application process. They will provide the necessary steps to begin receiving payments for the excess energy your system sends back to the grid. You can also use websites like Wattever.com.au to compare feed-in tariff options from various retailers. This will help you find the best rates and plans suited to your needs.

What is the Renewable Energy Target (RET)?

The Renewable Energy Target (RET) is an Australian Government initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and boosting electricity generation from renewable sources. It aims to produce 33,000 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of renewable electricity annually from 2020 to 2030. The RET is divided into Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) and Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). For more information, visit the Clean Energy Regulator’s page on the RET.

What is a renewable energy certificate (STC)?

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are part of Australia’s Renewable Energy Target (RET) scheme, incentivizing the installation of small-scale renewable systems like solar panels by reducing upfront costs. The number of STCs allocated decreases each year until the scheme ends in 2030. This gradual phase-out means installing solar systems sooner maximizes financial benefits. For detailed information, visit the Clean Energy Regulator’s website.

Am I eligible for the Solar Credits Scheme?

To qualify for the Solar Credits Scheme under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), your solar PV system must:

  • Be no larger than 100 kW.
  • Produce no more than 250 MWh annually.
  • Be installed after June 9, 2009.
  • Be installed by a Clean Energy Council accredited installer.
  • Use approved solar panels and inverters.

For detailed information and to check your eligibility, visit the Clean Energy Regulator’s Eligibility Criteria for Solar Credits.

Are there any additional charges?

“Non-Standard Installations” can incur additional costs due to specific safety considerations, extra labor, additional components, and possible freight charges for systems outside metropolitan areas.

A property evaluation helps determine the unique circumstances of your home, including the switchboard and meter-box setup. This assessment identifies any variations from the advertised pricing and whether electrical upgrades are needed before installation.

Our Quoted Price includes the Solar Credits discount and represents the amount payable to Gold Coast Energy. After the system is installed and approved, the Solar Credits are claimed on your behalf and paid directly to us by the government. This minimizes your financial exposure.

Meter Upgrades are not included in the quoted price. If a new bi-directional meter is required, your retailer may charge this on your next quarterly bill. This meter ensures you receive credits for excess energy sent back to the grid. Contact your energy retailer for more details.

When do I pay the balance of the quote?

A 10% deposit is required upon order confirmation. The remaining balance must be paid on the day of installation. You can make the payment via credit card, direct deposit, or bank cheque.

Will my solar energy system cover for all my household electricity consumption?

The ability of your solar energy system to cover your entire household electricity consumption depends on several factors:

  • System Size and Production
  • Household Usage
  • Rooftop Space
  • Sunlight Exposure
  • Consumption Patterns
  • Battery Storage

A 10kW system can generally cover most or all of an average household’s needs. For precise advice, consult with our team.

What Customers are saying about Gold Coast Energy

Very efficient , turned up on time, set up my wifi for me and office staff were great and i feel very confident with this solar company, highly recommend.
Hubert Netto
Great prompt service and very easy to deal with. Very friendly team. highly recommend.
Graeme Copelin
We had major issues with our Solar, our Solar Installers contracted Gold Coast Energy to come and fix it. To say they know their stuff inside out is an understatement. Solar is 100% fixed and doing what it should of from the beginning! Thanks Guys.. Highly recommended.
Peter Drew – SOLAR SYSTEM SERVICE
“Excellent service from Gold Coast Energy. I had my panels cleaned by a very polite and professional man. I would recommend using them again for my next solar service. ”
Joanne – Solar System Clean
Coombabah
“Very happy with the service by Gold Coast Energy, the young man recommended I have my panels cleaned annually. He was on my roof taking photos of what the roofer did for me. Thank you Gold Coast Energy. ”
Jaqueline – Solar System Clean
Tweed Heads
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