As solar energy continues to gain popularity in Australia, particularly in sun-drenched regions like Coffs Harbour, more residents are considering making the switch to this renewable energy source. At Coffs Solar Energy, we often receive a range of questions from locals who are curious about how solar power works, its benefits, and what to expect when installing a system. In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear from Coffs Harbour residents about solar energy.
Solar power systems work by converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells in solar panels. When sunlight hits these panels, it generates direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity by an inverter. AC electricity is what powers your home’s appliances and lighting.
The solar system can be connected to the grid, allowing you to draw electricity from the grid when your system isn’t producing enough power (e.g., at night) and to feed excess electricity back into the grid during the day. This process, known as net metering, can earn you credits on your electricity bill.
Yes, solar panels do work on cloudy days, though their efficiency is reduced compared to sunny days. Solar panels rely on light to generate electricity, so even diffuse sunlight on an overcast day can produce some power. However, the output on a cloudy day might be around 10-25% of what you would get on a bright, sunny day.
The good news is that Coffs Harbour enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal location for solar power. On days when sunlight is less intense, your system will still generate some electricity, and you can draw on any credits earned during sunnier days to cover your usage.
The amount you can save with solar panels depends on several factors, including the size of your system, your household’s energy consumption, and the amount of sunlight your roof receives. On average, many Coffs Harbour residents see their electricity bills reduced by 70% or more after installing solar panels.
For instance, a typical 6.6 kW solar system could save a household between $1,200 and $2,000 annually on electricity bills, depending on their energy usage. Over time, these savings can more than pay for the initial investment in solar panels, making it a smart financial decision.
The size of the solar system you need depends on your household’s energy consumption and the available roof space. A general rule of thumb is to install a system that can generate enough electricity to cover your average daily usage. For most homes, this is between 4 kW and 6.6 kW.
If your household uses a lot of electricity, for example, if you have a large family or run a home office, you might need a larger system, such as 8 kW or more. Conversely, smaller households or those with lower energy needs might find that a 3 kW or 4 kW system is sufficient. Our team at Coffs Solar Energy can assess your energy needs and recommend the right system size for your home.
The installation of a solar system typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation. The process includes mounting the solar panels on your roof, installing the inverter, and connecting the system to your home’s electrical system.
Before installation, there is usually a pre-installation process that involves site assessment, system design, and obtaining necessary approvals. This pre-installation phase can take a few weeks. Once everything is in place, the installation itself is relatively quick and straightforward, with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
Solar panels are generally low-maintenance, making them a hassle-free addition to your home. The panels themselves have no moving parts, so they require very little upkeep. Most of the time, natural rain will keep them clean, but it’s a good idea to check them periodically for any debris, dust, or bird droppings that could reduce their efficiency.
We recommend having your solar system inspected every couple of years by a professional to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This inspection can include checking the inverter, wiring, and panel connections. Regular maintenance helps to ensure that your system continues to operate at peak efficiency and extends its lifespan.
Yes, there are government incentives available to help reduce the cost of installing solar panels in Australia. The most significant is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides financial incentives for the installation of solar systems. This scheme issues Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) based on the expected output of your system, which you can sell to reduce your upfront costs.
Additionally, as of 1 November 2024, the NSW Government is offering new incentives, including between $1600 to $2400 off the upfront installation costs of a battery for homes and businesses with existing solar. There’s also an incentive of between $250 to $400 for connecting your battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), available twice, a minimum of three years apart.
These incentives make solar power even more affordable for Coffs Harbour residents, helping you to start saving money from the moment your system is installed.
Choosing the right solar provider is crucial to ensuring a successful installation and long-term satisfaction with your solar system. When selecting a provider, look for one with a strong local presence, excellent customer reviews, and a commitment to quality.
At Coffs Solar Energy, we pride ourselves on being Coffs Harbour’s trusted local solar provider. With our local office and a business owner who is always available, we ensure you receive top-notch service from start to finish. Our team is dedicated to delivering superior service, from the initial consultation to installation and ongoing support.
We use only the highest quality products, such as Jinko Solar Panels and Sungrow Inverters and batteries, to ensure your system performs efficiently for years to come. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to guide you through the process of going solar.
Solar energy is a smart investment for Coffs Harbour residents, offering substantial savings, environmental benefits, and long-term financial returns. If you’re considering making the switch to solar, now is the perfect time to take advantage of government incentives and start enjoying the benefits of clean, renewable energy.
At Coffs Solar Energy, we’re here to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect solar solution for your home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make the most of solar power in Coffs Harbour.
02 6652 2718 
