Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Solar Grid System work?
Once your solar panels are installed on the roof they absorb energy from the sun and convert the energy into Direct Current (DC). The DC is then routed through to an inverter. The inverter converts the DC to Alternating Current (AC). AC is the electricity that is used to power your house.

When the inverter has converted the DC to AC it is then fed into Solarman's electric meter. The solar meter is read in conjunction with your other power meters. Any energy that is above and beyond your home's needs is sent back to the electricity grid. From this you will receive payment of excess solar grid energy from your electricity provider.

What is Solar Electricity?
The solar panels for a Solar Grid System generate electricity. The electricity flows down a copper wire into your meter box. It is exactly the same type of electricity that is flowing into your meter box from the street power pole (or electricity grid).

Do I need batteries to store the electricity generated by the Solar Grid System?
No, you do not need batteries to store the power. All the surplus power you produce, i.e. what you do not use, flows into the street cables and is used by the other people in the street. That is, the electricity is "stored" in the grid and you can use it at any time you like.

Are all Solar Panels the same?
No. There are more solar panels from some good and some dubious solar manufacturers. The trick is to get the best made ones from one of the TOP manufacturers.

There are also different technologies available i.e. amorphous, monocrystalline, polycrystalline, C, GS this film. Each type of solar panel has its advantages and disadvantages and they are in general, distinctly different. Some of these technologies need more space than others, some are more shadow tolerant, some work better in low light or cloud and so on.

Do I get paid for any excess electricity that is produced?
Yes, whatever electricity your solar panels sends out to the grid earns you money. You get paid three times the value of the electricity that you use in your home.(as from July 2008)

Are they any Government Grants available?
Yes there are substantial grants available to help pay for your Solar Grid System.

How much does a Grid Solar System cost?
To help people take advantage of the Government Grants we offer a range of Solar Grid Systems using two grades of solar panels. You can find our prices and packages here.

What is the life and warranty of a Solar Panel?
The expected life of each Solar Panel we sell is at least 40 years. However, we have seen breakdown happen after 3-5 years because of exposure to harsh Australian sunlight.

The warranty period of a Solar Panel can be anywhere from 3 to 25 years.

What is Feed-In Tarriff?
As from 1 July 2008, Queensland Premier Ms. Anna Bligh has indicated that all electricity produced by your own roof solar panels that flows back to the grid will earn you three times what you are paying for your normal electricity.

Can you make a profit?
Of course you can earn more from your solar electricity, as it is worth 3 times more than what you are paying. But any profit you make will be determined by how large your solar system is and how much electricity you use in your house. It is easy to make a small profit or almost totally cancel your normal electricity account. Also, the sunnier it is the more you can earn.

How can I track what electricity is being sent into the grid?
A new electricity meter is fitted to record how much electricity goes from your house to the grid. This meter will make sure all your electricity is accounted for.

Can solar electricity be used for everything in my house?
Solar electricity is still electricity, you can use it for every household appliance. It is 240 volts AC when it enters your meter box.

How do I clean the Solar Panels?
Provided that rain falls periodically, there is no real maintenance that is required.

Will Solar Panels get broken in a storm?
Yes, they may. Solar Panels are made to withstand hailstorms of 25mm diameter, at a velocity of 52kph and even if you have a storm of this magnitude, your household insurance should probably cover any damage provided that you have advised your insurance company as soon as you installed them. Usually there is no extra premium charged for this.

How Much Do I Save?
Prices start at $4,600 (if you are eligible for the $8,000 Federal Government rebate) to install a 1kW system. Other ways you are saving include:

• The amount of electricity your household consumes (i.e. takes) from your local area grid will decrease.
• The amount of greenhouse gases your house produces will lower significantly.
• Your yearly electricity bill will be reduced.
• The water savings that will result from the coal fired electricity providers producing less electricity.