Frequently Asked Questions

Solar power works by using the energy from the sun to create electricity. Solar panels, made of photovoltaic (PV) cells, absorb sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses. Excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid.

Solar panels can still provide electricity during a power outage if they are connected to a battery backup system. This battery stores the energy the panels produce during the day, and is what powers essential appliances and devices during an outage.

The amount you can save with solar power depends on various factors, such as the cost of electricity in your area, the size of your solar system, and your energy usage. Generally, solar panels significantly reduce or eliminate your monthly electricity bills; in some cases, you may even earn credits for excess energy generated by your solar panels. On average, homeowners can save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of their solar system. Here are more tips on how to save with solar.

The cost of solar power can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, installation costs, and local incentives. On average, residential solar panel systems can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000 or more; however, the price of solar has been steadily decreasing over the years, making it more accessible and affordable for homeowners. Additionally, federal and state incentives are often available that can help reduce the upfront costs of installing solar panels. To determine the exact cost for your specific situation, contact us here at 3D Energy.

In Australia, several rebates and incentives are available for solar power systems, such as the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides financial support for installing small-scale renewable energy systems, including solar panels. Some state governments and electricity retailers also offer additional rebates or feed-in tariffs for households that generate excess solar power. Researching and understanding the specific rebates and incentives available in your area is essential, as they can vary depending on location and other factors.

To monitor solar power usage, you can use a monitoring system that tracks the production and consumption of electricity in your home. This system can be installed with your solar panel system and will typically display data such as energy production, energy consumption, and the net amount of energy your home uses or exports to the grid. Various types of monitoring systems are available, ranging from basic real-time displays to more advanced systems that can be accessed remotely and provide detailed data analysis. Some monitoring systems may offer alerts and notifications for system errors or issues.

The size of the solar power system you need depends on your energy usage and other factors such as the orientation and pitch of your roof, location, and shading. A professional solar installer can assess your energy usage and recommend the appropriate size for your solar system.

A solar power inverter is a device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used to power household appliances and electronics or fed back into the electrical grid. The inverter is a crucial component of a solar power system, as it ensures that the electricity produced by the panels is compatible with the electrical grid and usable in the home. In addition to converting DC to AC, the inverter also manages and optimizes the flow of electricity from the solar panels to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.

The number of solar panels needed to power a home varies depending on factors such as the home’s energy usage, the size of the solar panels, and the amount of sunlight the panels receive.

You can store solar power batteries and this stored energy can be used to cover your night time consumption or provide power to your essential circuits during a grid failure event when the inverter goes into backup mode.

To calculate solar power usage, you need to consider the size of your solar power system, the amount of sunlight it receives, and your energy usage patterns. You can use a solar energy calculator or consult a professional to determine your estimated solar power usage.

Yes, it is possible to increase the size of a solar power system in the future by adding more solar panels and inverters to the existing system. However, ensuring that the system is designed to allow expansion and checking if the existing components can handle the additional capacity is crucial. Consulting with a professional solar installer is recommended to determine the best approach for expanding a solar power system.

The time it takes to install a solar panel system can vary depending on the size and complexity of the system, as well as factors such as weather and permitting. However, a typical residential solar panel installation can take anywhere from one day to one week.

The wait time between booking and installing a solar panel system can vary depending on several factors, such as the availability of the solar panels and the installation team, as well as any necessary permits and approvals. On average, the wait time can range from two weeks to several months. Please get in contact with us to determine your exact wait time.

There is no one “best” solar power system, as the ideal system for you will depend on factors such as your energy needs, budget, and location. Book a consultation with us to help you assess your circumstances and determine what kind of system will meet your specific requirements.

Solar panels typically last 25-30 years or more, with many decent manufacturers offering product warranties and performance warranties for up to 25 years. However, their lifespan can be affected by factors such as weather conditions, maintenance, and general wear and tear over time.

Yes, installing solar panels on your home can affect your insurance. It is essential to inform your insurance provider that you have solar panels installed, as they may need to adjust your policy to ensure that your panels are covered. Some insurance companies may require additional coverage or offer discounts for homes with solar panels. It is recommended that you speak with your insurance provider to discuss any potential changes to your policy.

The best roof for solar panels is north-facing and free from shading, east / west orientations are also very good allowing maximum exposure to sunlight. The roof should also be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. The most common types of roofs for solar panel installation are corrugated iron, tile roofs. Flat roofs such as trimdeck or Klip-Lok are also suitable but may require additional mounting equipment to attach to the roof sheeting and to tilt the panels at the optimal angle.

Yes, trees can affect the performance of solar panels by blocking sunlight. Shade from trees can reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches the panels, reducing the amount of electricity they generate. If trees are present, they may need to be pruned or removed to ensure optimal performance of the solar panels.

Yes, energy usage during the day is generally better with solar panels. If a home or business installs a solar panel system, the electricity generated during the day can power the building throughout that same day, reducing the need to draw energy from the grid. This can result in significant savings on energy bills, especially during summer when more sunlight is available.

The lifespan of a solar battery can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of battery, usage patterns, and maintenance. Typically, a well-maintained solar battery lasts anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in solar energy storage systems, tend to have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries; however it’s important to note that the battery’s efficiency may decrease over time, impacting its overall performance.

The length of time it takes to pay off solar panels in Australia can vary depending on several factors, such as the cost of the system, the amount of electricity you use, and the amount you can save on your electricity bills. On average, however, most solar panel systems in Australia pay for themselves within 3 to 7 years.

The decision to invest in a solar power system ultimately depends on your circumstances. Factors such as your energy usage, location, and the cost of electricity in your area should all be considered. In general, though, solar panels provide long-term financial benefits and help reduce your carbon footprint.

Yes, selling excess solar power electricity back to the grid is possible and is known as a feed-in tariff. When the solar panels produce extra energy, it is sent back to the power grid, and the homeowner is credited for that energy. This helps reduce the overall cost of the solar power system and even generates extra income.

Yes, you can install a solar power battery-ready hybrid inverter now, even if you don’t have a solar battery installed yet. This will allow you to add a battery to your system in the future without having to replace your inverter. However, remember that not all solar inverters are battery-ready, so it’s important to check with a qualified solar installer to ensure that the inverter you choose is compatible with a battery system.