FAQ

How much electricity do solar electric (photovoltaic) systems generate?

In the ACT, each kilowatt of panels can produce between 1,500 and 1,800 KW hours per year depending on the orientation and the angle at which panels are mounted.

What is the Feed-In Tariff?

Under the ACT Feed-In Tariff legislation, producers of solar electricity will be paid 50.05 cents per kW hour, or almost 4 times the retail rate for electricity they produce.  The ACT uses a gross metering system, meaning that all solar electricity you produce is metered before it goes into your house.  You are paid the Feed-In Tariff on ALL of the solar electricity you produce, regardless of how much of it you use or how much goes back to the grid.

How long do solar electric systems last?
As solar electric systems have no moving parts to wear out, they last a very long time.  Our solar panels are built with a life expectancy of 30+ years and carry a 25 year limited power output warranty.  Our inverters generally have a 10-year warranty.  Solar electricity systems can pay for themselves many times over during their working life.

What type of roof is suitable for solar panels?
We can install your system on a tile, colorbond or cliplock roof.

What direction should my roof face?
The best orientation is due north.  Anywhere within 45 degrees of north will still be very effective for solar electricity.   An east or west facing roof may also be suitable with the panels mounted on a frame oriented towards the north.

What about shading?
Solar panels rely on direct sunlight and lose significant efficiency if shaded.  Ideally the panels should be located in an area that is well away from large trees (including deciduous trees) or other tall structures.

How heavy are the panels and will the weight affect my roof?
The weight of the panels will not affect your roof.  Each panel weighs less than 16kg.

What returns can I get on my investment?
As well as the environmental benefits, investing in a solar electric system makes great financial sense.  Under the ACT Feed-in Tariff, returns can be between 8% and 12% per annum, depending on whether you are eligible for the Federal Government $8000 rebate.  Returns from solar electric systems are not taxable.

Is my solar electric system covered under my home insurance?
Yes, just ask your insurance company to add the system to your policy.

Do I need batteries to store the electricity I produce?
No, with a grid connect system, you retain the convenience of connection to the electricity grid.  Any excess electricity you produce during the day goes into the grid, providing “green” power for others to use.

Is solar hot water the same as solar electricity?
No, they are separate technologies.  Solar (photovoltaic) panels convert sunlight into electricity that can be used throughout your home and exported to the electricity grid.   Solar hot water systems use the sun’s rays to directly heat the water that is then stored in a tank.

Do I need planning or development approval to install solar panels?
No, planning or development approvals are not required.  You do need to obtain approval from ACTEWAGL (Country Energy for NSW customers) to connect the system to the grid, but this is a simple process that we manage on your behalf.

What about maintenance?
Solar electric systems have no moving parts and require virtually no maintenance other than perhaps giving the panels an occasional clean.  As the panels are mounted on an angle, they do self clean when it rains.

Are solar panels resistant to hail damage?
Yes. All our solar panels have been extensively tested and pass the AS/NZS standard hail impact test of 25mm hail at 23 m/s.

What are RECs and how do they affect me?
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) can be traded after your system is installed and can provide you with “cashback” to help offset the cost of your system.  RECs are a form of “currency” that can be earned when you install renewable energy equipment such as photovoltaic systems or solar hot water.  Energy retailers can purchase these certificates to meet their targets for providing energy from renewable resources. Green Frog Solar will assist you with the paperwork to trade your RECs.

Other Information

	Solar PV Explained The aim of this guide is to provide some background information to assist purchasers in making an informed choice about solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Produced by the Australian Business Council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE).
	Solar Homes and Communites Plan The Solar Homes and Communities Plan provides cash rebates for the installation of solar photovoltaic systems on homes and community use buildings. The Government will continue to meet demand under the Solar Homes and Communities Plan, which will transition to the Solar Credits scheme in mid 2009.
	Clean Energy Council The Clean Energy Council is an amalgamation of the Australian Wind Energy Industry Association (Auswind) and the Australian Business Council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE). With over 400 businesses covering a quarter of Australia’s total electricity production including gas, wind ,hydro and bioenergy; and in the spectrum of business in the low-emission energy and energy efficiency sectors. Including solar PV, solar hot water, biomass, geothermal and cogeneration.
	The National Solar Schools Program The Australian Government is backing our schools in the fight against climate change. The National Solar Schools Program is giving Australian schools a head start in tackling climate change and conserving our precious water supplies. Our schools can harness the power of the sun in meeting one of the biggest challenges confronting our planet. This exciting new program will help primary and secondary schools around the country take practical action to save energy and water while cutting their utility bills.