As the importance of environmental sustainability and renewable energy in North Queensland continues to gain momentum, an increasing number of residents are turning to solar panels as a reliable and sustainable energy solution. Of course, like any major investment, research is essential to ensure it aligns with your goals.

In this blog, we’ll explore the major benefits of solar panels, from bill reduction to sustainability, and answer some common questions everyday Australians ask about solar panels.

What are solar panels, and how do they work?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They consist of multiple solar cells — typically made of silicon — that absorb photons from sunlight and generate an electric current. This process, known as the photovoltaic effect, allows solar panels to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into usable electricity.

Given their convenience, high reliability and simple production process, solar panels have become a non-negotiable for several households, particularly those looking to reduce electricity bills and tap into various sustainability benefits.

Here are the benefits of solar panels in greater detail.

Reducing electricity bills and potential income through feed-in tariffs

One of the primary advantages of installing solar panels is the potential to lower electricity bills significantly. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and your energy retailer, decreasing your overall energy consumption and improving your solar energy savings.

Solar panel owners who don’t own a solar battery can also take advantage of feed-in tariffs, which allow a person to sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than you consume, you can send the surplus energy back to the grid. In return, you receive a credit or payment for it, helping households further offset their electricity costs.

Speaking of electricity expenses, another solar panel benefit is its impressive ROI. When it comes to ROI for solar panels, we’re referring to the payback period, which is the time it takes for your solar panels to pay themselves off.

Improving sustainability

It’s not uncommon for solar panels and the environment to appear in the same sentence, as solar panels offer significant environmental benefits for North Queensland residents. By harnessing the sun’s energy, solar panels contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change. Traditional electricity generation relies heavily on fossil fuels, which release harmful carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. By switching to solar power, you can reduce your carbon footprint and promote a cleaner and healthier environment.

Solar panels also help reduce our dependence on limited fossil fuel resources, contributing to a more sustainable energy future. With the sun being an abundant and renewable energy source, solar power offers a viable solution to meet our energy needs while minimising the impact on the environment.

Increased accessibility through various financing

Due to their increasing popularity amongst North Queensland residents, not only has the price of solar panels slightly decreased, but various financing incentives have also been launched to assist with their purchase. In fact, according to a recent report, Australians are expected to see a 10% decrease in installation costs due to cheaper raw materials and increased production.

Recognising solar power’s long-term financial and sustainability benefits, many financial institutions now offer financing programs and loans specifically designed for solar panel installations. These ‘green loans’ allow homeowners to install solar panels with little to no upfront costs. Instead, the cost of the solar panels is spread out over a fixed period.

To support our customers and give them the best chance at reaping the benefits of renewable energy in North Queensland, Green Energy Technologies has partnered with lender Plenti to offer financing to residents. Applicants receive a personalised interest rate and, should their application be successful, get instant conditional approval.

Green Energy Technologies — leading solar panel installers in North Queensland

Think solar panels are the right choice for your household? Then your first step is to find a reputable and qualified solar panel installer. With more than 10 years of experience in the renewable energy industry, Green Energy Technologies has helped thousands of homeowners reap the benefits of renewable energy in North Queensland.

We’ve used our industry experience and knowledge to build the perfect green energy solution — the GET360 package. The Green Energy Technologies GET360 package is an all-encompassing solar installation that features your solar panel, solar battery and ongoing maintenance and monitoring.

Learn more about our GET360 solar package today and contact us for a free non-obligation quote.

FAQs — answering your commonly asked questions about solar panels

Still have questions about solar panels? Check out some of the frequently asked questions we get daily!

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels absorb sunlight through their solar cells, generating an alternating current (AC) voltaic effect. This current is then converted into usable electricity — direct current (DC) — that can power your home or be fed back into the grid.

Can solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days?

While solar panels perform optimally under direct sunlight, they can still generate electricity on cloudy days. Although energy production may be slightly reduced, solar panels can convert sunlight into usable electricity. This means that even in North Queensland’s climate, solar panels can generate electricity throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

What happens to excess solar energy generated?

When your solar panels produce more electricity than your household consumes, the excess energy is typically sent back to the grid. This surplus electricity is then used by other consumers in your area. In return, you receive credits or payments through feed-in tariffs, which can help offset your electricity costs.

However, some homeowners choose to invest in battery storage systems to store the excess energy generated by their solar panels. These batteries allow you to store the surplus electricity and use it when your solar panels are not producing enough energy, like at night.

How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels are designed to be durable and have a long lifespan of between 20 to 25 years. However, the life expectancy of your solar panels will depend on how well you take care of them. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to ensure optimal performance and maximise your system’s use.

Can solar panels be installed on all types of roofs?

Solar panels can be installed on various roof types; however, the installation process may vary depending on the roof’s structure and material. It’s highly recommended for homeowners to consult with a professional installer, like Green Energy Technologies, who can assess your roof’s suitability and provide guidance on the most appropriate installation methods.