10 burning questions about solar energy answered

If you've been scratching your head, unsure about certain aspects of solar power, you're not alone.

We asked our readers to submit their biggest solar queries and put them to Origin's product development manager, Mark Di Iorio, for a direct response.

1. Do my solar panels produce power when the sun isn't shining?
It’s not all about direct sunlight hitting the panels, Di Iorio says.

“Solar panels produce power based on UV light, so even during a cloudy day panels can still produce power,” Di Iorio shares.

A great way to maximise is this is through solar batteries. They capture and store unused energy generated by your solar panels for you to use when the sun isn’t shining.

On average, Origin customers who have a solar and battery package can save up to 60% on their energy bills depending on the size of their system and daily energy usage.

2. Can I go off-grid with solar panels?
It is possible to go entirely off-grid with a solar system. However, unless you have a large solar battery to complement your panels, it’s unlikely.

A battery acts like a storage system for your energy, ensuring you have enough power to see you through a full 24-hour period and periods of low-light days.

Di Iorio says you also need a specific solar inverter for off-grid applications.

3. Do I still get an electricity bill?
Yes, even if you have reduced your traditional electricity bill to nil, you may still incur some fees.

“Electricity bills typically contain service to property charges and you’ll likely still have charges for night-time usage,” Di Iorio confirms.

A great way to understand the costs around solar, and at your home specifically, is to use Origin’s solar calculator which can estimate your purchase cost, your electricity bill savings, and how long till your system is paying for itself.

It also uses smart technology to assess your roof size to accurately know how many panels can be used in your system.

4. How does solar affect my home’s value?
While it's difficult to quantify a precise amount, most experts agree solar panels will improve the value of your property.

Chief economist at realestate.com.au, Nerida Conisbee, remarks that any increase in value depends on your location and the quality or size of your system.

However, she cautions that this improvement is likely to be minimal in the context of the property's overall value.

5. How can I tell if I need to increase or upgrade my system?
Typically, if you are consuming most of your solar energy and do not have enough to meet your daytime needs, it’s likely you need a bigger system.

“To get a better idea, you’ll need some detailed reporting (like what you’ll find in Origin’s App or online via My Account) to determine if there are periods where you are not exporting any solar energy and still drawing from the grid.”

“How often and when this happens – for example, this is fairly common in winter in Victoria – will determine if you could benefit from a bigger system,” Di Iorio notes.

6. Will my solar panels withstand extreme weather conditions?
Yes, solar panels are designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, Di Iorio says.

However, it’s important they are set up by a reputable installer to ensure extreme weather does not adversely affect the panels.

7. How can I get the most value from my solar panels?
A great way to ensure your solar panels are being used efficiently is by joining Origin’s Loop VPP, which helps relieve pressure on the grid at times of high demand.

Basically,Origin’s Loop VPP is as a new, technology-centred energy grid. It uses its smarts to assess when energy is most needed.

The VPP relies on customers to share their excess battery stored solar energy (max 200 kWh / year), working like a mini power plant to manage energy supply and reduce load on the grid during periods of peak demand.

As the VPP utilises accessible solar energy, it’s helping reduce reliance on coal power, helping move towards a renewable energy future which is better for our communities and planet.

8. How much maintenance do solar panels need?
It’s recommended to have them professionally cleaned annually to minimise the effects of soiling and increase panel output.

Further to that, Di lorio says, “Panels usually last up to 25 years, although it’s likely your solar inverter will need replacing from anywhere between five and 15 years”.

9. I’m building a home. What do we need to do during the build to make sure we can install solar panels later on?
"There is nothing specific you need to do — solar panels can be retro-fitted to most homes," Di Iorio says.

However, you might want to consider the roof orientation and possible obstructions (like TV antennas) to ensure there is clear, shade-free roof area available.

10. We just moved into a new home that has solar panels. What do I need to know?
“Ensure the system is up to the current safety standards and get a solar service or check-up to ensure the system is operating effectively,” says Di Iorio.

(Source: Realestate.com.au)