Grid Connected Solar Energy for Home and Business
We encourage everyone connected to mains power to install a grid-connected solar power system. 

Grid connect system owners are eligible for the Fedral Government's STCs (formerly RECs) rebate. There is 3 x multiplied STCs rebate for system size up to 1.5kw.  This reduces to a multiplier of 2 post June 30 2012. Learn More

What is a grid connected power system?
What's a standard installation?
How long will my system last?
What government rebates or benefits are available?
Battery back-up?
How much electricity will be generated?

What is a grid connect solar power system?
A solar grid connect system supplies electricity generated by your solar panels directly to your household or business through an inverter. If the system is providing more energy than the household/business needs it feeds it back into the electricity grid.

These systems are different to solar hot water systems that directly heat water. They are also different to stand alone solar power systems which are not grid connected.

What's a standard installation?
The definition of a standard solar power installation would be for a single story (bungalow) residence with a north facing roof. The existing meter panel must have enough space for Bellingen Solar to install a solar supply circuit breaker and to accommodate installation of your net or gross meter. Additional costs may be incurred if roof pitch is very steep or if your roof is very flat additional cost for the construction of a pitching frame (if required) is $60 per panel.

How long will my system last?
Our solar panels come with a 25-year (limited) manufacturer's warranty. Originally designed and still used to power satellites, solar panels are extremely durable, reliable and expected to produce clean energy well in excess of 30 years.

What government rebates or benefits are available towards my new solar energy system?
For all current information on government subsidies and rebates towards your home or business solar energy system please click here

Battery Backup - What can I do when the mains power has failed?
Standard grid-connect systems do not produce energy when the mains power has failed. This is to protect Essential Energy line workers. To take advantage of your solar energy when mains power has failed a battery back-up system can be installed. Prices for a battery back-up system start from around $8K on top of standard grid-connect packages.

How much electricity will be generated?
The peak generation of power is on a cool, clear day when the sun is perpendicular to the solar array. Clouds, seasonal changes in the angle of the sun, dust or water vapour in the air, dirty panels, roof orientation, and any incidental shading may impact the performance of your system.

A typical energy efficient home is defined as consuming 7.5kWh per day, and would require a 2kw system to cover some or all of the energy consumed.

A typical conventional home consumes 18kWh per day and would require a 5kw system to cover all the energy consumed.

Bellingen Solar can install a system to produce all or a percentage of the energy you consume.

For further assistance on grid connect solar energy systems
please call 1300 558 043