Post-Installation Guide: What Should You Do After Installing Solar Power

The advent of modern technology and smart applications has made it easier than ever to monitor the performance of your solar panels. A central component of your solar system is the inverter. Think of it as the brain of your solar operation. This device converts the direct current (DC) energy generated by your solar panels into alternating current (AC) energy for home use.

Many modern inverters come with built-in monitoring systems accessible through a dedicated app or website. By logging into this app or website, homeowners can gain valuable insights into the efficiency of their solar panels. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Panel Efficiency: See at a glance how well each panel is performing. Are they all producing energy as expected, or are there any under-performing? Monitoring allows you to catch potential issues early.
2. Peak Production: Learn when your panels are producing the most energy. This could be useful data if you’re considering battery storage or want to optimise the use of appliances during peak production hours.
3. Energy Storage: For those with battery backup systems, the inverter app often displays how much energy is stored and available for use during times when the sun isn’t shining.

It’s worth noting that while the inverter app provides a wealth of data, it’s essential to ensure you have a reliable internet connection. This connection allows the inverter to send data to the app or website for your viewing.

If you don’t have an inverter with these capabilities, third-party monitoring solutions can be integrated with your system.

The performance of solar panels is intricately linked with weather and seasonal changes. As the year progresses and we move from one season to another, various factors come into play that can impact the efficiency and output of your solar panels.

1. Seasonal Efficiency Fluctuations: As the earth’s tilt and orbit change with the progression of the year, the intensity and angle of sunlight received by solar panels also vary. For instance, during winter, the sun is lower in the sky in Australia, leading to shorter days and reduced solar exposure. Consequently, panels might produce less energy compared to longer, sunnier summer days.
2. Shade Effects: Seasonal changes can lead to different shading patterns, especially in areas with deciduous trees. As leaves fall in autumn, solar panels previously shaded might receive more direct sunlight, whereas the spring growth can bring about new shading issues. Any obstruction that casts a shadow on the panels, even if temporary, can reduce energy production considerably.
3. Temperature’s Role in Efficiency: It’s a common misconception that solar panels require heat to produce energy. In reality, they thrive on sunlight, not heat. Surprisingly, higher temperatures can adversely affect solar panel efficiency. As temperatures rise, the conductivity of the semiconductors within the panels decreases, leading to reduced power generation. So, while sunny summer days can be great due to longer daylight hours, extremely high temperatures can offset some of those gains. Conversely, solar panels can be more efficient in cooler temperatures, provided they receive adequate sunlight.

It’s essential to understand these nuances to set realistic expectations for your solar system’s output throughout the year. If you reside in an area with pronounced seasonal changes, consider these factors when calculating annual energy production. By being aware of these influences, you can better manage your energy usage and savings.

Absolutely! In Australia, the government at both federal and state levels recognises the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources. As such, they have implemented various incentives and rebates to encourage homeowners and businesses to make the switch to solar power.

1. Federal Grants and Tax Credits: At the national level, Australia offers incentives like the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Under SRES, individuals and small businesses can receive Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for every megawatt-hour of renewable energy they’re projected to produce or offset. These STCs can be sold or assigned to agents in exchange for a discount on your solar installation, effectively reducing the upfront cost.
2. State Incentives: Each state and territory in Australia may have its own additional incentives for residents and businesses looking to adopt solar power. These might include rebates, low-interest loans, or feed-in tariffs that pay you for the surplus energy your solar system feeds back into the grid. For example, Victoria has been known to offer a solar panel rebate for homeowners, landlords, and renters.
3. Utility Rebates: Some local utility companies offer rebates to customers who install solar panels. These rebates are designed to reduce the load on the grid, especially during peak hours, and can help offset the cost of your solar installation.
4. Eligibility Criteria: It’s crucial to note that each incentive or rebate program will have its own set of eligibility criteria. These could be related to the size of your solar installation, the type of equipment you use, or other factors. It’s always a good idea to research each program thoroughly and consult with your solar provider to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements before applying.

In summary, Australia is proactively supporting the transition to renewable energy by offering a range of incentives and rebates. If you’re considering installing solar panels, make sure to explore all available options to maximise savings and return on investment.

Solar panels are a significant investment, and thankfully, manufacturers typically offer substantial warranties to provide consumers with peace of mind. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Duration of Warranty: Most solar panels come with a warranty that lasts for around 25 years. This lengthy period speaks to the durability and longevity of solar panels, which are designed to withstand the test of time and various environmental conditions.
2. Coverage: Solar panel warranties usually cover two main areas:
   • Performance Warranty: This ensures that the panels will not degrade or lose their efficiency beyond a specified rate each year. For instance, a common performance warranty might guarantee that after 25 years, the solar panels will still produce at least 80-85% of their rated capacity.
   • Product Warranty: This covers any defects in materials or craftsmanship. If a panel fails or shows abnormal degradation due to manufacturing faults within the warranty period, the manufacturer will repair or replace the defective panels, covering the associated costs.
3. Warranty Extensions: Some manufacturers might offer warranty extensions, either as a paid option or a promotional benefit. The availability and terms of such extensions will vary based on the manufacturer’s policies and dependability.
4. Claiming Warranty: It’s crucial to maintain a clear record of your solar panel purchase, installation, and any potential issues that arise. If you notice any decline in performance or detect any visible defects, promptly address them with your installer or the manufacturer. Many warranties require issues to be reported within a specific timeframe after noticing the defect.
5. Additional Considerations: It’s worth noting that while the panels themselves have long warranties, other components of a solar system, like inverters or batteries, might have shorter warranty durations. It’s always good to be clear on the warranty details of each component in your solar system.

Power outages can raise valid concerns about your solar panel system’s functioning. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Grid-Tied Systems: Most residential solar panel systems are grid-tied, which means they are connected to the local electricity grid. For safety reasons, these systems are designed to automatically shut down during power outages. This is a precautionary measure to ensure that electricity isn’t being fed back into the grid, which can endanger utility workers trying to restore power.
2. Standalone Systems with Backup Batteries: If you have a solar panel system equipped with backup batteries, you’re in a more favorable position during power outages. Even if the grid goes down, your solar panels can charge the batteries, which can then provide electricity to your home. This kind of system offers the advantage of energy independence, but it’s crucial to ensure that the batteries are well-maintained and in good working condition.
3. Power Surge Protection: Whether or not you have backup batteries, it’s essential to have surge protection in place. When power is restored after an outage, it can sometimes come with voltage fluctuations, which can damage your solar inverter or other electrical appliances. Surge protectors can help shield your equipment from these spikes in voltage.
4. Regular Maintenance: To ensure that your solar system performs optimally, especially during crucial times like power outages, stick to a regular maintenance schedule. This includes checking the health of your batteries, cleaning solar panels, and ensuring that all system components are functioning correctly.
5. Post-Outage Procedures: Once power is restored, if you have a grid-tied system, it will typically start generating electricity and feeding it back into the grid automatically. However, it’s a good practice to check your inverter and other system components to ensure everything is operating correctly.

In summary, while grid-tied solar systems won’t generate electricity during a power outage, systems with backup batteries will continue to provide power. Regardless of your setup, always prioritise safety, invest in surge protection, and maintain your solar equipment to ensure it’s ready to serve you when you need it most.