The current energy crisis in Australia has placed significant pressure on Australians to cope with its consequences. Soaring electric bills, and hence costs of living, can be really challenging and stressful to deal with. With all this in mind, what are some cost-effective energy management solutions for you to consider? In this article, we’ll be sharing four helpful tips to help you start saving on your energy bills today!

4 Great Tips on Saving Money Amid the Energy Crisis

Saving money during this energy crisis does not have to be hard. It can be quite simple if you’re willing to take saving seriously. Here are a couple of tips you can consider doing:

1). Turn Down the Heating and Cooling

One way you can conserve energy is by limiting your usage of air and water heating. This is because heating has been hailed as the single “big thing” in energy usage. In a typical Australian home, water heating accounts for 24-32% of end-use energy consumption while HVAC systems may account for up to an alarming 46%. 

The figure goes up the more the HVAC system is used, and the more bathrooms a building has, the more expensive it is to heat the water. You can achieve this by letting the sunshine in, using a smart thermostat, changing the furnace filter, using programmable shower heads, and other methods. Once you have tried out this energy-saving hack, you’ll be shocked at how much you’re saving!

2). Go Solar

Energy accounts for a large chunk of your monthly expenses whether through gas or electricity. Unfortunately, this is a necessary evil and you can’t avoid it. Unfortunately, gas and electricity costs are at all-time highs. Even worse, the current inflation squeeze is just a small part of the broader inflation crunch and prices are set to soar. As a result, you can find yourself in an endless loop where your earnings and savings decrease month after month. 

One of the most effective ways to save money on energy costs is by going solar. Solar allows you to generate your own clean, renewable and affordable energy to use for all your domestic needs. In fact, it was found that homes in areas with a lot of sunshine can save about $1,500 annually by installing solar panels. You can rescue yourself from debt and enjoy other benefits of solar energy such as contributing to a greener planet, tax credits and incentives, energy security, and increased home value. 

3). Save Cooking Gas 

Cooking up a storm? Before cooking, always measure what you’re cooking, use low heat, and cover whatever you’re cooking. If possible, use a pressure cooker to reduce the energy required to cook. Lastly, match the size of the pan to the gas burner/hot plate. This can help cut the gas usage by as much as 50%!

4). Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances

Another simple yet effective strategy is to use energy-efficient appliances and lighting. These items employ technologies that are less energy-intensive and reduce the amount of energy it produces. Although these devices generally cost more, you will be shocked at just how much you can save by buying energy-efficient bulbs, dehumidifiers, dishwashers, refrigerators, dryers, washing machines, and more. 

Conserve Energy, Save Money

Conserving energy means spending less money on electricity or gas and making your home more eco-friendly. All it takes to do this is a mindset and habit change. Unfortunately, the majority of Australians find it difficult to change their usual energy-wasting habits. Even if they are, sometimes they fail to have the commitment, willpower, and discipline required to break these old habits. 

If you’re one of those people struggling to save on energy usage, solar energy is clearly a great option. With solar, you can remain in your comfort zone without worrying about the environment or an astronomically high power bill. Solar energy is abundant, clean, renewable, and affordable. 

If you would like to switch to solar power and join the hundreds of Australian homeowners who are enjoying peace of mind amidst the energy crisis, talk to GCR Electrical. We get the job done!

Please contact us today on (07) 4120 7004 or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

The year 2022 has been hit with the worst energy crisis ever, and power prices continue to soar. The crisis began as an aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and is attributed to factors such as the Ukraine war, overconsumption of fossil fuels, and underutilisation of renewable energy. How can you adapt?

Granted, global shortages won’t be resolved in short term, and electricity, gas, and oil prices unfortunately are set to soar even higher in 2023. According to power company executives speaking at The Australian Financial Review’s Energy & Climate Summit, retail electricity prices could increase by at least 35% in 2023.

The effects will be felt by everyone, so what are the alternatives? What can you do to save money on your electricity expenses? The easiest and probably only plausible solution is to install solar panels. Please read below for the top 6 reasons why you should go solar amid the energy crisis.

1). Solar Helps Safeguard Against Rising Energy Costs

Energy costs are so capricious right now; no one knows how much energy will cost in the next couple of months—all we know is that it’s going to rise. Dealing with such uncertainties is undeniably challenging, particularly for organisations or property holders whose income varies from one month to another. 

To make these costs less surprising, going solar gives the additional advantage of working within your home’s budget or business’ cost administration capacities. Reduce your electricity bills by going solar!

2). Reduced Electricity Bills

Apart from saving yourself from expenses, you’ll actually enjoy lower bills. Power expenses can make up an enormous part of the budget for your home or business, but with alternative (renewable) sources of energy, the cost of production is much lower. 

That said, with solar power, you’ll produce your own free energy from the sun, which will be incredibly cost-efficient. You will also have free control over your framework’s long-term life cycle. Regardless of whether you produce all of the energy you consume, your service charges will actually be a lot more modest. One way or the other, you’ll be setting aside a great deal of cash.

3). High ROI 

Solar panels can provide a high return on investment, especially in sunny locations where you can eliminate your energy costs and satisfy all of your electrical needs. Benefiting from solar energy’s financial and environmental advantages is now more affordable than ever thanks to rising electricity expenses and declining equipment costs. In fact, experts speculate that solar panels pay attractive returns frequently matching those of additional customary ventures like stocks or bonds. 

4). Increased Property Values

Research shows that properties with solar systems have higher property estimations, selling two times as quickly and at a higher cost than normal. As appraisers and shoppers become more educated, homes or business properties outfitted with solar systems will be more popular and will fetch higher premiums.

5). Minimal Maintenance Needs

While solar panel systems require support and regular maintenance to work at full capacity, there is practically no upkeep required, making it simple for you. An accomplished solar energy expert can help with keeping your system properly maintained and achieve the greatest effectiveness.

6). Energy Security

A fascinating fact about solar power is its storage ability. This ensures that you’ll not be a casualty of a power disappointment as well as guarantees saving expenses when costs are highly similar to the present situations.

Final Thoughts

With the significant issues influencing the energy domain, it makes sense to change to a more reasonable source of energy. In this sense, going solar will prove to be useful and save you from stressing over high-power bills.

Talk To The Solar Energy Specialists

Ready to start using clean, sustainable, and affordable energy? Our specialists at GCR Electrical Systems can assist you with consistent power at a minimal price. 

Please contact us today on (07) 4120 7004 or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

 

Australia has quickly emerged as a leader in rooftop solar PV installation. By the end of 2018, there were close to 2 million rooftop solar installations in the country and this number is expected to rise to more than 3 million by the end of 2021. Consistent positive changes in the policy mechanisms have given a huge boost to this immense increase in the rate of installations. However, these numbers don’t tell the whole story. Choosing a trustworthy and reliable solar company isn’t as easy as it seems.

Since 2011, more than 750 solar installation companies have shut down. It is estimated that around 450,000 to 600,000 solar installations in Australia are orphans. An orphan system simply means that it is unsupported and there is no support from the installer as well as the manufacturer. 

One of the main reasons for the failure of so many solar installers is the poor quality of solar panels, inverters and other accessories leading to consumer complaints. The companies that installed and/or imported these solar panels decided to liquidate instead of bearing the cost of replacing thousands of failed solar inverters and/or panels. This is why it is important to research important parameters when choosing a solar power installation company. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

CEC Accreditation And Approval

Every single solar installer in Australia is required to carry CEC accreditation. The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is the leading body that represents the clean energy sector of Australia. It is made up of more than 600 member companies in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy. It maintains a list of accredited and approved solar retailers and installers. 

Accreditation means that the individual has undergone the required training to safely design and install solar energy systems. Similarly, CEC approved solar retailers are required to comply with a specific code of conduct that has been designed to ensure a better standard of service in the solar and renewable energy industry. CEC maintains a list of accredited and approved solar PV installers and retailers on its website. GCR Electrical Systems is fully accredited with the CEC. Also, all the electrical contractors in our team are fully licensed and well trained.

Customised Installation

There are many solar installers who provide a cookie-cutter quote on the phone without visiting the location where the solar panels are to be installed. Always choose an installer that provides a customised estimate after visiting your location as every location is different and a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to solar PV installation. 

GCR Electrical Systems promises a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We will provide a customised design and installation service to ensure maximum return on your investment in solar power.

Warranty Terms

All the solar panels sold in Australia are required to have a standard 10-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. However, the whole system warranty provided by an installer is completely different. Always choose an installer that provides multiple years of system warranty to ensure peace of mind.

Complete Transparency

When you are comparing estimates provided by various solar installation companies, make sure they provide a written estimate with their licence number and CEC accreditation details. Make sure the estimate includes itemised prices for labour and parts, including GST. The estimate should also specify various components along with their brand, quantity and model number. 

The quote should also include STCs and a proper timetable for supply and installation of the system along with payment method, deposit requirements and other such things. When you call for estimates, always ask the installer to specify whether you will need to spend extra money on upgrading the meter or switchboard, or other systems.

Years Of Experience In The Industry

It is recommended to choose a company that has been in this business for several years. It allows you to check their customer reviews and general feedback from existing customers. It is a highly competitive industry and it’s not easy to remain afloat for so many years without meeting the expectations of customers. GCR Electrical Systems has been serving the customers for several years.

Don’t Choose On The Basis Of Price

One of the most common mistakes made by buyers is that they choose the cheapest solar panel retailer and installer without paying attention to the quality of product, CEC approval, CEC accreditation, years in business and licensing details. Some installers in the industry are known for baiting customers with low-priced components and swapping them at a later date with cheaper ones. This is why it is recommended to establish a base price for good quality components by calling a few installers and choosing one with multiple years of experience and a good reputation.

Summary

There are thousands of solar panel installation companies in Australia. Unfortunately, not all the companies are CEC accredited or properly licensed. Many buyers have burnt their fingers by falling into the trap of cheap solar panels. Don’t make the mistake of choosing a solar panel installer because they are the cheapest. Make sure they are CEC accredited, have been in business for several years, are properly licensed and provide an excellent warranty for the whole system in order to get the best value for your money when choosing a solar power installation company.

Please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 if you have any questions about solar installation in Hervey Bay, or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

 

There are those that avoid installing a solar array, simply because it only provides electricity when the sun shines. Or does it? Can you change the game by using renewable solar energy at night? The answer is yes, and the answer to this problem is incredibly simple. But to make sure everyone is on the same page, this post will go through the elements of solar power, and whether a solar company can help you produce 24-hour electricity? 

A brief outline of what will be covered include: 

• A Basic Overview Of Solar
• How Is Solar Energy Used At Night? 
• Can Professionals Help To Install Such A System?

Australia is blessed with abundant sunshine, which you can count on almost daily to break through the clouds. But what happens when it goes down? 

A Basic Overview Of Solar 

The concept of solar power has not changed. You still need to catch rays from the sun using a silicone cell combination. And this harvested energy still has to go through a conversion process. In other words, you will require panels for harvesting. And you will need an inverter to convert the energy. 

What type of panels do you get? Are all solar panels the same? Essentially, solar panels function on the same basic principles. But you will find a wide variety of different designs and capabilities. For example, cost-effective panels do not harvest and produce as much energy as higher-quality panels will.

The same can be said about the inverter. Given that it has to constantly make the energy available in your home, it needs to be durable. At the same time, it should match the combined power of your panels. Otherwise, you are letting the energy go to waste. 

 

How Is Solar Energy Used At Night? 

Now, for the interesting part, you have been waiting for. How are people able to use solar power night and day? Through a battery. Yes, it is really as simple as that. Installing it may be another story, but when you have a battery bank in place, the energy you do not use is stored in it. And when night time comes along, you switch from on-demand to stored power. 

Once again, there are different types of batteries you can look at. Lithium batteries are incredibly popular but can be pricey if you are working with a tight budget. Luckily, there are many affordable alternatives that are high quality and trustworthy. 

Can A Solar Company Install Such A System? 

Without a doubt, the right professional can help you maintain the use of solar power throughout a 24-hour period. However, it will require a fairly big battery bank. Or do you plan on using the energy sparingly? Either way, it is definitely possible. 

A professional will also give you valuable information and guidance. Many people are intimated when they want to put up panels but do not know where to start. However, a professional helps you clarify the situation by asking a few simple questions and providing their expert advice.

Solar Is The Way Of The Future 

If you live in Australia, you are in the perfect position to harness solar energy. Few places can boast such powerful sunshine, so just imagine the energy it puts out. And if you add a battery bank to the mix, there is no reason why you can have free electricity at night. It is just a matter of contacting a friendly solar company and getting direction. 

You will not just be saving on the electricity bill, but you also take pressure off the environment. That in itself is something to remember.

If you are looking for a trusted local solar company in Hervey Bay, please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

The Physical Causes Of An Underperforming Solar System

When designing a system on PV software or facilitating an on-site inspection, you can sometimes be faced with certain issues that affect the optimisation of your solar system.

Following are some of the main things that affect the optimisation a solar system on a rooftop:

1. Multiple Roof Directions

Sun irradiation is mismatched on a string of panels.

2. Shading Caused By An Antenna Or Chimney

Rooftop objects such as chimneys, satellite dishes, or TV antennae can interfere with the overall performance of PV panels by casting shadows.

3. Shading Caused By The Home Of A Neighbour

Houses that have shade caused by their neighbours home or any other building, should consider one of the shade-management systems to lower underperformance.

4. Shading Caused By Bird Droppings, Leaves, Or Trees

Bird droppings often lower panel output which affects efficiency. An optimised system accounts for this issue, until cleaning.

These are all scenarios that result in a mismatch when it comes to panel generation. This often results in dragging down the performance of the system for either an “array of panels” or the whole string. When panels are connected along a string in series, these should be operating from a mutual current. If one or more of these panels generates less power, the entire array usually suffers.

To explain this phenomenon, think about the analogy of water pipes. The water that flows through a pipe is usually constant, similar to the current that runs through cell strings. If a mismatch occurs between the panels, this is similar to a partial blockage in a water pipe which causes the flow rate to slow down, which in turn affects the flow of water to the other pipes that connect to it. In the same way, the current that runs through the string will start to reduce when a mismatch occurs.

Why Is It Important To Pay Attention To Shading?

1. Heating Problems

Fallen leaves reduce the output of the panels which prevents sunlight from reaching the panels in specific areas that negatively impacts efficiency.

2. Roof Direction

According to market research, around 2 out of 10 homes have to factor in roof direction and shading. The power output reduces and a mismatch could also lead to extensive damage to a panel known as hot-spot heating. In extreme cases, this can even result in a fire. Using the analogy that was mentioned above, think about the blocked water pipe. When the pressure starts to build up the pipe might explode as the pressure increases.

3. Rooftop Obstacles

Obstacles that cast shade across the panels such as vents, pipes, and chimneys can negatively impact panel performance. This is an important consideration when planning the panel layout for your home.

How To Gain A Better Yield And Lower Performance Loss

1. Panel Level Solutions

The traditional panels connect in series and come assembled with full cells. See the electrical diagram below that displays the interconnecting sequence on the solar cells in the panels.

The half-cut solar panel is regarded as 2 traditional independent panels (all the half-cut cells connected in series) that are parallel in connection.

If shading is blocking an entire column, performance will reduce similar to the full-cell panels. Around 1/3 of the performance decreases, causing the temperature of the cell to rise.

When shading is blocking an entire row, this means that only 50% of the panel performance will be affected. The other half-panel will continue to operate as normal in comparison to traditional panels that lose all their power.

When shading has only blocked a single cell, only 1 string is affected (1/6 loss) when compared to full-cell panels that lose around 1/3 of their power.

2. Vertical Panel Arrangement

In Australia, less than 90% of the panels that are installed on roofs are in a vertical direction.

3. Half-Cut Panels Vs Full Panels

The half-cut panels feature 6 separate cell strings, this offers improved partial-shade tolerance. This means that when 1/2 of a panel is in shade, the remaining half is still able to operate.

4. Shingled Solar Panels

The shingled panels feature a different type of solar-cell layout. For example, with LONGi HiMO-X the solar cells come in 6-strings and these strings work independently and connect in parallel. When shading has blocked one cell or an entire string, performance levels only drop by 16.7%, when compared to the traditional panels that lose about 33.3%.

5. MLPEs (Module Level Power Electronics)

MLPE solutions are one of the other loss minimisation methods for solar systems. Both power optimisers and micro-inverters can assist the solar panels to operate independently, which means the affected panel or panels will not drag down the performance of the entire system. An MLPE solution is another effective way to minimise the loss of efficiency in a solar system.

If you are looking for a trusted local solar company in Hervey Bay, please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

The cost of solar power is going down, and the efficiency of solar panels is going up. This means that now more than ever it’s a great time to invest in solar energy for your home or business. However, why is solar in Hervey Bay becoming so popular?

Many people don’t understand the benefits of solar power. There are misconceptions about what solar can do for you. We want to clear up these myths so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not solar is right for your home.

If you want to learn more about solar, then please continue reading our article below.

1. Solar Panels Are More Cost-effective Than Ever

The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly over the years, making them a more feasible option than they have ever been. Solar panels are now cheaper and easier to install than ever before because their technology continues to become more advanced as time goes on. 

Even though these factors make it seem like installing solar is no longer worth any consideration due to increased prices, studies show that in 10-12 years your initial investment will be paid off if you decide not to pay for electricity from traditional sources during this period.

2. Low Environmental Impact

Solar panels are not only more environmentally friendly, but they also provide a larger return on investment when compared to other types of energy.

Solar power has the lowest environmental impact because it does not produce any toxic emissions that could be harmful for humans and wildlife alike. This is unlike traditional fossil fuel sources such as coal or gas which can emit smog-forming chemicals into the air, as well as large amounts of carbon dioxide into Earth’s atmosphere causing global warming and climate change.

Traditional fossil fuels are the leading causes for damage to our planet’s ecosystem including habitat destruction and water pollution, with toxins known to flow downstream contaminating marine habitats along lakes/rivers, particularly as a result of a severe storm or excessive rain.

3. Never Pay For Electricity Again!

Different people have different reasons why installing solar panels is probably the best decision of their lives. Some do it because they care about our environment or want to help save money on electricity bills in the long run.

If you install solar panels, you will never pay for electricity ever again! Solar power is cheaper and better for the environment than fossil fuels that produce energy from coal or natural gas. As a result, you’ll be putting less carbon emissions into the atmosphere by switching over to renewables like solar energy and save a ton of money by not relying on traditional power from the grid.

What’s more, you can actually earn money by feeding your access solar energy back into the grid using the feed-in tariffs system. It has never been easier to cut down your electricity costs and earn money by doing so!

4. Government Tax Credits

For those of you who may be considering a solar panel installation on your home or business, the Australian government offers an attractive tax credit for doing so! With our electricity prices increasing and other sources becoming more expensive due to climate change, it’s important that we take advantage of resources like these.

In recent years Australia has seen record-breaking heat waves resulting in increased demand for energy and higher power bills. That’s why installing solar panels is a smart move because they can help reduce household costs by up to 25%. In addition, if installed at work, then companies are rewarded with 30% from the federal government as well as $1/day per employee towards their retirement fund. 

Final Thoughts

Solar energy offers many benefits and is quickly becoming more popular. There are a few factors involved in this trend, but the main one seems to be concern for the environment. As people grow concerned about their carbon footprint, they may turn to solar power as an alternative. 

Whether you’re looking to save money on your electric bill or want to do something good for our planet by using renewable resources, installing solar panels can help you achieve these goals!

Please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 if you have any questions about solar in Hervey Bay, or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

We all know that solar power is a great renewable energy source, but it’s not always easy to choose the right company to install it for you.

When it comes to choosing a solar company, you need to make sure that you pick one that will help you save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. However, there are so many options out there, it can be hard to find the best local solar company in Hervey Bay.

Therefore, we have made a list of certain things you need to consider when selecting a solar company in Hervey Bay. Please continue reading below to learn more!

How To Find The Best Solar Company In Hervey Bay

In order to find the best solar company in Hervey Bay, first pinpoint your needs. Do you need a system for home or business use? What size of installation do you require? Is there enough space on your roof-top? As we can see, there are a number of things to consider.

Based on this, following are some of the most important things to consider when looking for a good solar company in Hervey Bay:

• Knowledge – a well-respected, established business will have access to all the latest technology and strategies. 
• Experience counts – newer companies may not yet be licensed or insured adequately so careful research is needed before making a final decision.
• Look at their references – ask around with other customers to find out how they’ve been treated by this firm and what should you look out for? 

If you can find a solar company that passes this criteria, then you are heading in the right direction.

Solar Power Benefits And How You Can Save Money

Solar panels are a great way to create energy-efficient and cost effective electricity from the sun’s rays. This is a powerful form of renewable energy that has many benefits for both humans and the natural world around us. 

One of the major benefits of solar power is that it’s good for our wallets! You can save yourself a lot of money by using solar power and not having to pay outrageous rates for your monthly bill.

By having solar power installed, you no longer have to rely on expensive fossil fuels that are used to power the grid that you feed off, and you also save the environment at the same time.

The Different Types Of Solar Panels Available For Installation

There are three main types of solar panels, and we’ll help you understand the differences. 

• Mono-crystalline cells produce more electricity at a lower cost than poly-crystalline or amorphous silicon cells. The mono cell is fragile but yields up to 20% higher efficiency than its competition – perfect for hot climates where cooling costs money. 
• Poly crystalline will be less expensive in colder environments because it’s tougher so they can withstand harsh weather conditions; however, their output decreases as temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius (32 F). 
• Amorphous Silicon has high wattage but produces smaller amounts of electrical power when compared with other technologies due to poor efficiencies during extreme temperatures

The importance of finding the right sized system is vital when considering whether it will be cost effective and efficient. It may also enable access to renewable energy grants such as those offered by Queensland Government’s “Smart Solar Rebates”.

If you aren’t sure what is best for your needs, make sure you consult with an experienced solar installation company so that they can inspect your roof and determine what is best for you based on your home’s location and orientation. 

What Is Net Metering And Why Does It Matter To Me?   

Net metering, also called net energy billing or feed-in tariff (FIT), is a pricing structure for electricity where consumers are paid the wholesale price of power plus benefits such as renewable and clean fuel certificates.

Net metering helps to conserve energy and save money by balancing out your usage between periods when you need more power, such as during hot summer days or in winter months when heating systems are running constantly, against times where demand for power is low at night.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to looking for a solar company in Hervey Bay, we want to help you take the guesswork out of your decision. Our team has been in this industry for a long time and we know how important choosing a solar company is when it comes to getting electricity from renewable sources, saving money on utility bills and living sustainably! 

Please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 if you have any questions, or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

Choosing a reputable solar company in Hervey Bay isn’t as easy as it seems. There are many companies that all claim to be the best, but how do you actually know which ones are the best and which ones are right for you?

We know that going solar can seem complicated and intimidating which is why we’ve created this guide to help you find the most reputable solar companies in Hervey Bay. We will walk you through everything from what makes a good installer to what questions you should ask them before deciding on one for yourself.

This guide has been designed with every step in mind including instructions on where to start, who to talk to, and even an example of each question you should be asking along the way. 

By following these steps, choosing the best solar installer for you will become much easier!

1. Investigate The Solar Company’s Credentials

When you’re looking for a solar company in Hervey Bay, make sure they are licensed and insured. 

Firstly, the best way to find a solar company that is qualified and experienced enough for the job is by ensuring they are licenced. If they are licensed to install solar, this gives you some assurity that they are capable of performing the installation correctly and that you won’t have any ongoing issues. 

Furthermore, check if they have an office close to you, as this will make it easier for repairs or maintenance should there be anything wrong with their installation.

Secondly, if they are insured, if something is damaged during or after the installation process, you know you will be covered. 

Doing your research is key to finding a trustworthy solar company that will provide you with the service you need. Performing some background research on an organisation before hiring them can really make all the difference when it comes down to determining whether or not they’re suited for what you need done.

2. Ask For References And Testimonials

When you are considering a solar company to work with, it’s important for them to have an excellent track record. 

Ask the firm why they’re qualified and how many other customers they’ve served in the Hervey Bay area before making any decisions about their credentials. Testimonials from satisfied customers can also help show you that this is a great option!

You can also ask friends or family in the area if they have used or can recommend a good solar installation company. This is another good way to make sure that you find a reputable company.

3. Compare Quotes From Different Solar Companies 

There are many important reasons to consider before choosing a company for your new home. One of the most crucial considerations is price, but that’s not all! You also want to know if they offer quality services and how experienced their team members are in general. 

These questions may seem like common sense at first glance, but it can be difficult when you don’t have any experience with solar installation yourself. Your research will help you make an informed decision based on reliable data from trustworthy sources about each option available out there.

So make sure that you compare quotes from different companies before making a final decision, and don’t just go with the cheapest quote. One of the most important considerations when choosing a solar installation company is value for money, not just price.

4. Can They Help You Get The Government Solar Rebate?

Australians are passionate about their environmental footprint, and one of the ways they can save money on energy costs while reducing pollution levels in our atmosphere has been through installing solar panels.

Furthermore, solar companies can help you get a government rebate for your solar installation. This is because some countries offer incentives to install renewable energy sources which are good for the environment and will also save them money in the process!

So not only does installing more sustainable energies help our planet but they could even lead you getting rebates from the government as well.

However, if you’re not sure how this process works or what your eligibility is as an individual. That’s where a good solar installation company in Hervey Bay should be able to assist you. By speaking with experienced professionals, they should be able to walk you through every step of applying for the rebate. 

Final Thoughts

We want to help you take the guesswork out of your decision. Our team has been in this industry for a long time and we know how important choosing a solar company is when it comes to getting electricity from renewable sources, saving money on utility bills and living sustainably! 

Please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 if you have any questions, or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.

Imagine this: having a power bill in credit, helping the environment and getting rebates on your power. That is what the reality can be if you invest in an on the grid solar system. Property owners have been taking the note of the advances in technology; solar systems in Hervey bay and surrounding suburbs have been on the rise. Whether your incentive is to save money or to move to a more environmentally-friendly solution, switching to an on the grid solar system is worth researching and looking in to. While there are different types of solar systems, like grid-connected, off-the-grid systems and hybrid, grid-connected solar systems in Hervey Bay and in Queensland are a great choice. Grid-connected solar systems are still connected to utility power so if there is excess electricity, you are able to keep your account in credit so if you need to use the back-up power during the colder months, you have the grid to ensure that you have all the power you need. It is important though when installing solar systems in Hervey Bay that you enlist the right contractors to get the job done. GCR Electrical Systems are a knowledgeable and highly-skilled electricians, who have all the required tools and know-how to ensure that your solar system runs efficiently. Having a strong understanding of the equipment, like a Grid-Tie Inverter (GTI) that regulates the voltage, a Direct Current to convert into an Alternate Current so you can use your appliances and micro-inverters on the rear of the panel. Solar Systems in Hervey Bay are a great investment, especially being in the Sunshine State so take advantage of the natural resources you have available.

Off-The-Grid Solar Systems

Installing environmentally friendly solar systems in Hervey Bay is easy, whether it is with a home or a commercial property. Off-the-grid solar systems rely on the energy generated by your panels and if you have enough panels, you can create enough energy to power your home or commercial property. From appliances, to hot water systems and other electronics use quite a lot of power therefore as long as you have enough panels, you can successfully power you building with off-the-grid solar systems in Hervey Bay. GCR Electrical Systems are also experienced in the installation of off-the-grid solar systems thus the Electricians from GCR will be able to advise you just what your property’s need are.  GCR Electrical Systems will ensure that your property will have enough panels to be able to generate and capture enough sun, a set of deep cycle sealed gel batteries or lithium ion batteries to store any excess power and the other equipment necessary to ensure that your home or property is sufficiently powered. These systems are going to eco-friendly, sustainable and are a perfect long-term investment. 

Solar System Rebates and Incentives

In a country as sun blessed as Australia, especially in the Sunshine state, there are plenty of rebates and incentives available for those looking into solar systems in Hervey Bay. Even though you are guaranteed savings for many years to come with solar systems, the cost of the initial outlay of solar panels can seem a bit intimidating, which is why there are plenty of incentives out there for those looking to make the switch. Out of the incentives, there are two primary incentives available. These are Feed-in tariffs and Small-scale Technology Certificates. Queensland Solar Feed-in Tariffs allow unused electricity to be moved into a shared grid, giving the owner of the system money off their bill. Depending on where you live and sometimes on the time of the day, you can receive various different tariffs for your excess generated energy. Either way, once you receive your bill, the initial cost of your outlay will be worth it as you will start to see the savings. Small-scale Technology Certificates allow those who install solar systems in Hervey Bey, whether it is an electrical system or hot water system, to get various certificates on their system that can be sold and be used to give you a significant discount. Do not be intimidated by the apparent costs of installing solar systems in Hervey Bay, as there are so many incentives and rebates that will not only give you discounts up front but will help you save down the line.

Most of us don’t think about our hot water system functioning… until it doesn’t. Solar hot water systems are increasingly popular but during the cooler months of the year with less sun, they usually need an electric or gas booster back-up. This can increase your electricity or gas bill so one way of helping reduce these costs is to turn the booster off and only turn it on when required. For solar systems in Hervey Bay, Queensland has an abundance of sunshine throughout most of the year so you don’t have to worry about pipes freezing. There are tips for ensuring that you maximise use of your solar hot water system such as cutting back any foliage or trees that cast shadows or block the sunlight from reaching the solar panels. Checking the panels and ensuring that they are maintained and clean is important for driving the collection of sunlight to the optimum and additionally, use the booster only on days which are cloudy or wet. It is wise to use your dishwasher and washing machine during the day while there is some sunshine rather than at night when the solar hot water system won’t be reheated until the next day. With quality insulation, sunlight will still be able to heat your water but keep in mind that diffused light or low sunlight on cloudy days will reduce the capacity for the panels to absorb sunlight and thus heat your water.

Selecting Your Solar System Hervey Bay

If you are looking for solar systems in Hervey Bay, there are factors to consider when selecting the right system for you as well as the service and installation. Deciding on the type of panels you require to suit your household usage and the roof space that you have is highly-integral. If you have limited roof space for solar systems in Hervey Bay, then choosing mono-crystalline solar panels are highly-efficient. Technological advancements made with polycrystalline panels means these can also be efficient for household use and even if you do have enough roof space for plenty of panels, you want to ensure that they are efficient panels otherwise it is a waste of money putting too many inefficient panels over your roof space. Quality solar systems in Hervey Bay are wind-certified so they can withstand storms and high winds; the mounting system of your solar panels is crucial to having a proper structure and set up for solar. To complete the set up aside from the solar panels, you need a power inverter which is connected between the panels and your household electricity so that it converts DC power to AC electricity. The type of inverter will directly impact on the efficiency of your solar system as you don’t want wastage of solar energy. Additionally, another factor to consider is the length of the manufacturer’s warranty; manufacturers of quality solar systems will offer a lengthy warranty and it is reasonable to expect that your solar system in Hervey Bay will last decades. Working out your budget is also integral when seeking a solar system; you want a realistic budget but still to obtain a quality system that will last the time. Seeking recommendations from friends, family, neighbours and colleagues is also a good way to know which company to utilise for your solar system in Hervey Bay and also Google search for reviews. Testimonials tell you a lot about a company. It is also often wise to avoid pushy salespeople and focus on the customer service of the company and representative you are liaising with. Do they appear knowledgeable and competent in the industry? Are they certified and insured? What is their timeframe for delivery and installation? These are all good questions to ask when considering a solar system company.

Cleaning Your Solar Panels

If you have a solar system in Hervey Bay and want to ensure that it is maintained, contact a professional to have them check out if the panels are clean and functioning correctly. Always remember though, safety first. If you need to climb up on your roof, be cautious and only do so in a safe and secure manner. Your handbook or manual that should have come with the solar system will have recommendations on cleaning and it is not recommended to clean during a bright, hot day; pick a cooler day or clean the panels early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Avoid using abrasive products for removing dirt because these can scratch the panels’ glass and this will impact upon their performance. If you live in a highly-polluted area, wash your panels regularly to keep them performing at their optimum. For solar systems in Hervey Bay, contact GCR Electrical Services to assist you with your energy needs.