Solar Power and Solar Hot Water?

If you want to help the environment but aren’t sure which system is right for you, you might want to consider:

• Applicable incentives
• The complete cost of the system
• Available space on your roof
• Ongoing savings
• Installing both a solar energy system and a solar hot water system.

Regardless of the solar system you choose, by using solar power or solar hot water you will be making a positive impact on the environment by ensuring fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Incentives

There are incentives on each system that could save you money now and in the future. As a guide, incentives for solar energy systems (in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates REC’s) can be claimed when installed and will allow a discount on upfront costs. Solar hot water systems incentives (when converting from electric hot water to solar hot water) are claimed after installation, Solar hot water has Federal & Local Govt. Rebates also.

Complete cost

A solar hot water system is another great way to start making savings on your electricity bills. A solar hot water system is generally a cheaper option than the purchase and installation of a solar energy system. A solar hot water system is typically around 1/3 of the cost of solar power system.

Available space on your roof

Because both systems will take up room on your roof, you might have to choose one system in favor of the other. A solar power system may need 8m2 or upwards of roof space depending on the capacity of the system you choose.

Ongoing savings

Being energy smart around the home may help you to enjoy ongoing savings. Depending on the type of appliances you have (gas cookers vs. electric) and lifestyle you lead, you may be able to make large and noticeable savings with either a solar hot water or a solar energy system.

Installing both systems (Recommended)

If you have a large north-facing aspect to your roof and are prepared to spend the upfront costs, you can save more over time and rest assured the environment will thank you for it. Great Government incentives and rebates are currently available; Take an advantage before its too late.