Solar Power Lifestyle: From Sunlight to Savings

Solar power is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners in Australia and New Zealand. According to the Clean Energy Regulator, Australia has the highest uptake of solar globally, with more than 2.68 million rooftop solar power systems installed as of December 31, 2020. This means that one in four homes in Australia has solar panels on their roof, and this number is growing rapidly.

How much can it save?

The benefits of adopting solar power are significant, including potential savings of up to $2,500 per year on energy bills. Additionally, solar power offers environmental benefits such as the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and conservation of natural resources. Homeowners should consider factors such as location and shading when deciding whether solar power is suitable for their household.

With the increasing market size of the solar panel installation industry in Australia and the growing solar energy market in New Zealand, solar power presents an attractive option for those looking to contribute to a sustainable future.

The cost of installing solar panels is negligible when considering the long-term savings and environmental benefits. On average, solar panel installation can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $12,000.

However, households can save up to $4,000 off the average solar system with the Government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, which allows users to get paid for the electricity they produce. This scheme also helps households recover their system cost in around three years, add value to their home or investment property, and insulate themselves from rising energy costs.

How does it work?

A residential solar system works by directly converting sunlight into electricity, providing a cost-effective, low-maintenance, long-lasting and compact option for homeowners. Australia and New Zealand are leading the way in adopting solar power, with Australia having the highest adoption rate globally.

According to the latest data from the Clean Energy Regulator, as of December 2021, over 3.5 million rooftop solar power systems have been installed in Australia, which equates to one in every three homes having solar panels on their roof. New Zealand is also seeing significant growth in solar power, with a 78% increase in installed solar capacity in 2020.

The Clean Energy Regulator notes that Australia and New Zealand have some of the sunniest locations globally, making it an ideal location for solar power. Australia also leads the world in per capita photovoltaic capacity, with 591 watts per person, which is almost eight times the worldwide average.

Advancements in science have made renewable energy cost-competitive with traditional power, allowing for a global transition to lower emissions and a cleaner future.

Many Australian households are already achieving net-zero emissions, meaning they generate more energy than they consume annually. With the numerous benefits of solar power, it presents an excellent opportunity for homeowners in Australia and New Zealand to contribute to a sustainable future while also saving money on energy bills.