There has never been a better time to invest in solar and solar storage batteries! With the SA government solar battery scheme still in place, let’s look at what it means to you and how it can be used to your advantage. The scheme has been in place since 2018 and has been updated which we will discuss.
Why purchase a battery?
When your solar system produces enough solar energy to surpass your usage, it may be time for you to consider adding a solar battery to your system. Energy is produced by means of your solar panels during the daytime. If you are a household where most of your energy consumption is required in the evening and at night due to everyone returning from work, school or uni, then a battery is a good solution to storing the power produced during the day and being able to use it at night. Makes perfect sense, doesn’t it?
By purchasing a solar storage battery you will be able to enjoy reliable electricity at an affordable rate. You will also be assisting South Australia with its transition to being cleaner and greener.
The subsidy
On 10 September 2020 the SA government solar battery scheme maximum subsidy was reduced from $4000 to $3000 for South Australians when purchasing a solar storage battery for their home. The SA government solar battery scheme levels are as follows:
Energy concession holders $300 per kilowatt hour
All other households $200 per kilowatt hour
Maximum subsidy per battery installation is $3000
For example, a battery with 5kWh of storage could receive a $1000 subsidy, or $1500 for energy concession holders. While the subsidy will vary depending on the size of the battery, it is capped for everyone at a maximum of $3,000 per household.
How to qualify for the SA Government Solar Battery Scheme
To qualify for the SA government solar battery scheme subsidy, the storage battery must be approved and installed within 12 months for new builds and within 6 months in all other properties from the date of application for the subsidy. Your installer will be able to assist you with the application process.
Which battery to choose?
With many options available on the market to choose from, it is recommended that the advice of experts in the field be used. The size and capacity of the battery will be determined by the amount of energy you require to use at night and if you require power during blackouts. How many appliances will you be running off your battery?
The daily consumption of electricity is a good indication, therefore take a reading of your power meter in the morning and then take another reading of your power meter the following morning. These are some of the considerations to be made when choosing a suitable battery for your needs. Some well known storage battery brands are currently running special incentives with additional discounts.
Can I save by adding a battery?
The output performance of your solar system and the capacity of the battery need to be determined, together with your daily energy consumption. Many Aussies have successfully installed a solar battery and are saving hundreds of dollars on their energy bills by using less energy from the grid.
A battery may not be the best solution for everyone and a trustworthy consultant will not recommend battery storage if it is not the right fit for your energy usage. When adding a battery to your solar system, your feed-in rate may be affected. Once again, a reputable service provider will be able to assist you with negotiations and queries relating to your energy retailer.
What happens to the excess solar power?
Do batteries discharge back into the grid or only the excess solar power generated? The excess solar power generated will feed into the grid via the battery. The battery will not discharge back into the grid unless you are part of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). Joining a VPP is optional and not part of the conditions when receiving the SA Government Solar Battery Subsidy.
In South Australia you cannot charge the battery from the grid and therefore it will only store solar generated power. Solar panels charge the battery. Any power used during the day comes from the battery. When the battery is fully charged, power is exported to the grid. Power used at night is taken from the battery. It depends on how you want it installed.
Summary
The SA government home solar battery scheme subsidy amount will continue to drop as the uptake for the Scheme continues to grow. Therefore, don’t wait till it’s too late and the subsidy is lower, take the leap and invest in your renewable energy future now.
Give us a call at Cool or Cosy to receive a no obligation consultation. We will advise you whether making use of the SA government solar battery scheme and purchasing a solar storage battery is the right solution for your energy needs.
Are you looking for quality solar panels in Adelaide? You have come to the right place. At Cool or Cosy, we supply Australian-made Tindo Solar Panels that are made to suit our climate and are designed and tailored to suit your unique space. With no deposits necessary and an impressive 25-year warranty, going solar has never been this easy, we will guide you through the process. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help reduce your energy bills through innovative solar energy solutions!