With the advances in technology in modern Australia, more and more homeowners and commercial property owners are moving towards solar systems in Hervey Bay and surrounds. For quite some time now the Government has been offering solar rebates as an incentive for people to move towards running their home on solar energy and not only is an environmentally friendly move to make but it is cost saving as well. Imagine having a bill in credit where you don’t have to pay a cent; that’s a dream bill to receive in the mail. There are different types of solar systems for Hervey Bay and Queensland in general: grid-connected solar systems, off-the-grid systems and hybrid. Grid-connected solar systems in Hervey Bay are a great way to live off solar energy while still connected to the utility power grid feeding into it. GCR Electrical Services are highly-competent and knowledgeable with grid-tied energy systems and understand the requirements to make a truly efficient solar system in Hervey Bay. Equipment required includes a Grid-Tie Inverter (GTI) which will regulate the voltage and current being transmitted by your solar panels. Direct Current (DC) is converted into Alternating Current (AC) so that you may utilise electrical appliances within the home or commercial property. With output voltage that is a bit higher than the grid voltage, the excess electricity flows to the grid which typically means a bill in credit. Micro-Inverters are on the rear of every solar panel on your roof but there is some debate surrounding the optimisation between micro-inverters and central inverters which works with the entire set of solar panels. When installing solar systems in Hervey Bay, the old power meter will generally need to be replaced with a new one that holds the capacity to meter the power being transmitted in both directions, the incoming and the excess flow outwards. Advantages of grid-connected solar systems include saving money on your bill as mentioned and given we are in the Sunshine State, generally your solar panels will generate more solar energy than required to run your household or commercial property. Instead of storing with batteries, the utility grid you are connected to acts as a virtual battery so if you utilise more energy than the solar panels generate, perhaps during the winter months, then you have the electricity grid to back you up.

Off-The-Grid And Hybrid Solar Systems

If you are thinking of moving towards a truly environmentally-friendly way of generating power within your home or commercial building, then an off-the-grid solar system in Hervey Bay is one way to achieve that. Relying solely on the solar energy generated by your solar panels, you can run the entire property as long as you have installed enough solar panels to manage your usage. Having solar panels not only on your home but a garage as well can mean the add up of all the panels together can produce enough solar energy to run your home… and even your garage. Electrical items such as kettles and ovens pull a lot of current as do hot water systems such as electric systems and solar hot water systems with electric back-up so you want to ensure that you have enough solar panels to manage the daily consumption of appliance use. The important aspect of being off-the-grid aside from it being sustainable and eco-friendly not to mention cost-saving is you need to have an efficient and quality inverter and charging technology as well as batteries. The battery system required to store the solar energy for you to run an off-the-grid solar system in Hervey Bay is either a set of deep cycle sealed gel batteries or lithium ion batteries. GCR Electrical Services are abreast of grid-tied and off-the-grid solar systems and you can be confident in our ability to drive your investment further.

Why Go Solar?

Being environmentally conscious is an important attribute in today’s world as climate change slips by with massive changes in the eco-systems and weather. Having a solar system in Hervey Bay means you can commit to environmentally-friendliness reducing your carbon footprint. If you are a business with a commercial property and invest in a solar system in Hervey Bay, it can reflect you demonstrating a commitment to eco-friendly principles which is a great attribute to utilise in marketing material. Furthermore, it conveys to your employees that you are taking responsibility to energy consumption in a sustainable manner. However, beyond the obvious environmental benefits lies a few other advantages of solar systems in Hervey Bay. As mentioned, you can drastically save money on your electricity bills which is fantastic on the bottom line for your business or for helping you and your household. The money you save on power can go towards something else important to you. Furthermore, solar systems offer a great return on investment and homes often increase in value with a complete solar system installed. Additionally, you can help protect yourself against rising energy costs which is inevitable with utility companies. Not only can solar systems in Hervey Bay be energy-efficient, if you invest in quality batteries for an off-the-grid system, it can offer you a low maintenance investment. As highly-qualified Electricians with strong expertise and knowledge on solar systems and electrical systems, engaging with GCR Electrical Services is the way to go solar.

As another EOFY looms upon us, it’s the perfect time of year for small business to go solar! While preparing for tax time can be a hassle, there are also a lot of opportunities for smart investments, and leveraging tax deductions.

One of the most rewarding commercial investments, especially in our sunny Fraser Coast region, is harnessing our abundant natural energy and saving BIG with solar! If you’re looking at where you should spend your dollars to boost efficiency and improve systems in your business, solar is a powerful investment – both short and long term!

2019 Instant Asset Tax Write Off

If your small business has a turnover of under $50 million, you are entitled to the Government’s Instant Asset Tax Write off Scheme.

For asset purchases made and installed between 2nd April 2019 and 30th June 2020, you can write off up to $30,000 as an immediate 100% tax deduction.

Solar is becoming a popular choice for business owners to leverage this incentive to upgrade or invest in assets to help them reinvest in their business and grow.

The average household and small business energy bill is more than 80% higher than it was ten years ago – OUCH.

Reducing the need to draw energy from the grid at peak daytime rates translates to incredible savings for small business.

• Immediately reduce your operating costs
• Protect your business against future energy price hikes
• Lower your carbon footprint and emissions
• Increase the value of your property and business

And up to $30,000 is 100% tax deductible!

What is the cost of a commercial solar system?

The rise in demand for solar installations has substantially lowered the cost of solar – particularly for hybrid battery storage systems.

The cost of commercial solar is determined by your particular usage needs, and the location, size and orientation of your roof and building.

The quality of your solar panels, inverter systems and battery storage systems should never be compromised. Always opt for reputable brands for your solar components, and a trusted local installer.

This time of year brings many EOFY specials for commercial solar investments with interest free finance options or attractive package deals.

Does my 9-5 business need a battery system?

You might think that because your business only operates during daylight hours, battery storage is not necessary. However, keep in mind your stored power will serve you well when there is a power outage, or on overcast days when you’re generating less power from the panels.

Batteries can also give better assurance that daily peak demands won’t be as high. Demand charges can account for as much as 50% of a power bill in a commercial operation, so this can be a significant benefit to investing in solar batteries.

Every business and circumstance is unique. Your trusted local solar professionals will consult with you closely, and recommend the perfect solution for you.

Evolution Stone Case Study

GCR Electrical completed a 3 phase 31.65kW solar installation for Evolution Stone in April 2018 which now provides 70% of their total energy requirements.

The results

• 70% of total energy is supplied via solar
• $184,000 in projected savings over 10 years
• Cash positive investment within 2.8 years
• Initial power savings of $14,000 – $16,000 annually

We just love helping other local businesses achieve these amazing results. Our team work closely with you to optimise the benefits of solar and maximise your efficiency. It’s a bright future of savings when you switch to solar with us.

Other commercial 2019 solar rebates and incentives

Interest-free loans and grants for battery storage

• Queensland small businesses can apply for grants up to $3000 or interest-free loans up to $6,000 to be repaid within 10 years.

Small business grant for combined solar and battery systems

• Small businesses can apply for a grant up to $3,000.

Make the switch to solar happen for your business

Even though the EOFY can be a brain strain, solar is a no-brainer! Celebrate the sunshine and tax deductions this end of financial year and invest in cutting your small business energy costs – for good!

Get in touch with the GCR Solar experts to arrange a free onsite appraisal and quote. Let’s get you off that grid this new business year!

Investing in a solar system for your home is a wise step towards significant power savings and a more sustainable future. We’re blessed with all this beautiful solar energy, why power our homes purely from the grid? With Queenslanders and Hervey Bay residents enjoying glorious sunshine year round, you’ll see immediate solar benefits and power savings through installing a solar system. But there are many ways to optimise your solar to make best use of Earth’s natural energy, while increasing the performance and value of your system. From small lifestyle changes to clever investments, here are some top tips to help you get the most out of your solar.

Choose the right solar power system for your home

Getting the most out of your solar starts with choosing the right hardware and system for your lifestyle and unique needs. What’s best for your neighbour may not necessarily be ideal for you.

How many solar panels do you need?

There’s much more to an efficient solar system than installing the maximum number of panels possible. Your supplier should consider the location, orientation and angle of your roof, and the impact of environmental factors such as nearby trees and shaded areas.

Should you invest in a battery storage system?

A typical grid-connected home solar system without battery storage will generate power for use during daylight hours only. Any surplus power that is not used during the day, is fed back into the grid. When the sun goes down, you’re utilising (and paying for) power from the grid again. A battery storage system will store surplus power generated during daylight hours for you to use at night, during power outages, or even on a rainy day. This is the ultimate in sustainable renewable energy at home; but, not surprisingly, it’s considerably more costly on the onset.

Does the Inverter make a difference?

Essentially a residential solar system is comprised of your solar panels, an inverter – which converts sunlight into usable electricity, and the racks or brackets required to fit your panels to the roof. If you’ve chosen a battery storage system that of course will be an additional component.

There are two types of inverters, each with their own pros and cons.

Microinverters Vs String Inverters

Microinverter Pros:
Microinverters provide an inverter for each individual solar panel, installed under each panel. They are designed to help you get the more energy out of your solar power system. They can help your panels function better if they become partially shaded, and if you have panels facing different directions. These benefits can save you a lot of energy, which in the world of solar, means money!

Cons:
More expensive initial outlay.

String Inverter Pros:
String inverters function in a circuit connecting 6-10 individual panels in a ‘string.’ Typically a residential property would require one or two string inverters installed near to your power board. They are cheaper than micro-inverters and easy to access in the event of a problem.

Cons:
Limited to output of weakest panel in the string. So if one panel is faulty or partially shaded, the efficiency of the whole string is affected.
Uses higher voltage DC cabling.

It’s well worth putting some time and research into choosing the right solar energy management system.

Minimise Power Usage to Optimise Solar Benefits

While it’s tempting to run around and turn on every appliance now that you’re powered by the glorious sun…keep in mind that you get a small return for the power you feed back into the grid. If you have a battery system – all the more reason to conserve power for use after dark.

• Turn lights and fans off when you leave the room
• Run the Aircon at 24 degrees (only when necessary)
• Turn standby appliances off at the wall when not in use
• Use the eco settings wherever possible
• Use only cold water for your washing machine

Change night-time power settings to day

A little change in your routine can go a long way. Put those solar panels to optimal use by operating some of your more power-hungry household appliances during the day.

Pool pump – Run your filter during daylight hours rather than overnight. Set the timer for early in the morning, and mid-to-late afternoon.
Washing machine – Avoid washing your clothes in the evening or on dark rainy days.
Hot water system – If you have a timer system connected to your hot water system, set it to heat and fill your hot water for a particular number of hours during the hottest time of the day only, not overnight. And use your hot water conservatively in the evening.
Dishwasher – I know, we all love the convenience of popping the dishwasher on before bed and waking to sparkling clean dishes. But you’ll be amazed at how much you can save by running your dishwasher in the afternoon and quickly washing those final dinner dishes by hand.

Upgrade Old or Faulty Electrics and Appliances

These are items you can address over time that can result in massive savings. You can begin to put away your electricity savings to reinvest into upgrading and optimising power-hungry appliances.

• Install efficient LED bulbs and dimmer switches
• Upgrade to more energy efficient modern split system air conditioners
• Install a time on your hot water system in order to only heat and refill the system at nominated times during the day – not every time you activate your hot water around the house.
• When it’s time for a new fridge, washing machine, or any appliance, spend that little extra on a good brand with a high energy efficiency rating.

Ultimate in Solar Power System Optimisation: Battery Storage

While it comes down to your individual circumstance, property, power consumption and lifestyle, a solar battery system could be perfect in helping you get off the grid in the evenings. It is often considered the ultimate in solar power optimisation and efficiency for residential and commercial systems. Known to be quite costly, price has come down in recent years thanks to swift advances in technology. If unable to invest in a battery system right now, many homeowners are ensuring they install a system with provision to add a battery at a later date.

As of April 2019, there are some great QLD solar rebates, incentives and interest free loans on offer at the Federal and State Government Level in Queensland, it’s well worth looking into when you’re considering a solar powered investment.

As always, we advise you talk with your trusted local Hervey Bay solar company, who knows your area well and has a good idea of your particular needs and lifestyle. Look for a company with a good reputation and solid local references. Choosing the right solar company is probably the most important step in ensuring the optimal suitability and efficiency of your system – and the maximum dollars kept in your wallet!

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Completed in April 2018, the solar installation at Evolution Stone, now provides 70% of their total energy requirements.

Switching to solar, provides a number of benefits for the Dundowran business, with initial savings of approx $15,000/year. As electricity prices continue to increase, these savings will too. Like many businesses and home owners, this protection from future tariff increases, is a major advantage.

3 Phase Solar Installation – Without The Guesswork

Particularly for commercial premises using 3 phase power, planning and monitoring the solar installation is vital to maximise savings.

Using the Enphase Envoy system, GCR Electrical has equipped Evolution Stone with clear tracking to verify that the power generated on each phase, is being used most effectively.

The result of this installation for Evolution Stone, is they can expect sustained savings for a long period of time, with flexibility to make adjustments to, or expand their system if energy usage requirements change.

 

Local Solutions and Support For All Your Solar Requirements

Being a local Hervey Bay business themselves, GCR Electricial Systems provide a wide range of solar power and storage solutions, to maximise your energy efficiency. More than just supply and install, GCR works with business and home owners to tailor the solar solution to best suit your needs.

Like to assess options to reduce your energy costs? Contact GCR Electrical Systems today.

Green Energy Opens the Doors to Smarter Business

When local manufacturing on the Fraser Coast is discussed, the conversation often raises concerns about competitive pressure from offshore. Among the contributing factors for this, are the steady increases in energy costs, which continue to expand the operating costs for local versus offshore manufacturing.

Furthering this gap, is the way the electricity costs are calculated for businesses.

While in many cases, “wholesale” or “bulk purchasing” is associated with discounted rates, local manufacturing often faces the opposite. Commonly, as demand for the manufacturers products increases, and energy usage follows, the tariff charged also increases.

This creates a double-edged sword for local manufacturing, increasing pressure on operating costs further as they grow.

Local Hervey Bay manufacturer, B&S Classic Doors, are only too well aware of the hefty power costs associated with majority of manufacturing operations in Australia.

With competition and demand as high as its ever been, B&S Classic Doors sought advice on products and strategies. As a result, local company, GCR Electrical Systems were engaged to advise on the potential solutions available.

Like many businesses in this situation, part of the challenge with tackling high energy costs, is being able to clearly understand what power is being used when during normal operations. This issue, was the first GCR Electrical Systems sought to address, “Why would any business continuously spend thousands of dollars not knowing how or completely understand where it’s going?” commented GCR Electrical Systems Director Gary Radke “The issue with energy costs is the highly common inability to perceive its value into a measurable form”

Post initial discussions, GCR Electrical Systems proceeded to install equipment which captured real-time electrical usage data. “Without this information, the ability to correctly advise and deliver an accurate result is like shooting a gun into murky water expecting a Red Emperor”

An ideal opportunity to save with solar power

To their advantage, the same large footprint of B&S Classic Doors facility, where the large amounts of power were being used, also provided the ideal roof area for a sizable solar installation.

By calculating both the energy used during daylight hours, and the available installation area, GCR was able to equip B&S to generate a significant portion of their power requirements via solar power.

The resulting installation, is comprised of 230, 300watt solar photovoltaic panels. This installation is calculated to save B&S Classic Doors operational costs by $22,000 – $28,000 per year.

With the returns this solution will provide it was merely a decision of how many panel the premises could efficiently fit. The outcome, a 69kw state of the art ‘micro-inverter’ solar PV system was installed and completed in Feb 2018, providing B&S Classic Doors to see a positive return on their investment by completion of 2022 (or 4 years).

As their system is comprised of high quality 300w photovoltaic panels and Enphase inverters, their investment is protected by a 10year Australian based warranty.

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Tracking solar power production and savings

Another key factor in ensuring the power savings are realised, is provided via the system’s energy management software.

The tracking software, Enphase Enlighten, enables ongoing tracking of each of the 230 solar panels in the installation. Advantages of this, include being able to see when and how power is being used at any time of day, with a comparison against power produced by the solar panels.

This equips property owners, to have complete visibility of their energy consumption and production, ensuring that the best savings can be realised.

Like to assess options to reduce your energy costs? Contact GCR Electrical Systems today.

What Changes to Solar Subsidies Means For You

The solar industry is set for some changes in 2018, as the government withdraws support from solar panel replacements, via its STC subsidies.

Now, more than ever, understanding the quality and warranty support behind your installation, will become an important factor in ensuring you will get the best returns from your solar system.

The change to solar panel subsidies

From 31st January 2018, replacement solar panels will not be eligible to receive any form of Government subsidies, aka STC’s (small-scale technology certificates).

This will also affect solar panels currently under warranty, including panels approved for STCs on new installations.

While this change does not directly affect new installations, it does put the full responsibility of warranty on the companies supplying and/or installing your system. Later in this article, we’ll give you a few tips on how to ensure you are adequately protected by the warranty being provided with your installation.

Why The Subsidy Is Being Removed

Up to now, the STC subsidies available on a new solar installation, also applied to any replacement panels.

This meant that some installation companies have been using low quality equipment, relying on the STC subsidies to reduce their warranty risk. In extreme cases, some installers were even using extremely cheap and low-quality panels, so they could make a profit on replacement panels.

The worst example of this, is in the reports that some companies were even using door knockers to persuade home owners to replace good panels, with low cost panels, allowing the company to claim the STCs on the cheap replacements.

Consequently, the STCs are being removed from panel replacements, and from February 2018, will only be available for new installations.

The benefit for you

As a homeowner, the last thing you want, is a system that’s the by-product of an installer’s greed, and so the removal of this subsidy, should help a few of these installers either go out of business, or be forced to massively change their practises.

So, while the removal of this subsidy could adversely affect those with low quality panels already installed, it does apply positive pressure to installers using an appropriately supported, quality panel in future installations.

In the short term however, a few less reputable suppliers could be caught out with low quality stock they want to clear. So, there could be some cheap panels going extra cheap… perhaps it worth remembering, “if it looks too good to be true, it probably is”.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to deal with established, reputable installers, who utilise well-supported panels and inverters in your solar installation.

What to look for when choosing a solar power system

A reputable solar installer, will happily guide you through this process and only recommend quality products, that are locally supported.

However, upon receiving recommendations from your installer, an important question is,
“How do you know if the panels and inverters being recommended, are not only right for you, but carry suitable warranty support?”

Here are a few keys factors to consider, when deciding on the right solar system for you:

#1 Does The Manufacturer Have an Australian Office and Local Support

Many cheaper or unsupported panels are imported directly, to reduce costs.

To ensure your panels have appropriate warranty support, the manufacturer should have an Australian office, with local support staff.
If buying through a larger installer, it’s worth checking too that they haven’t ‘direct imported’ their panels. Because, if so, the manufacturer may not be liable to honour the product warranties, leaving it up to the integrity and viability of the installer to carry the responsibility for the warranty.

#2 Have I Got The Written Warranty Information

It’s worth requesting the warranty information before you sign… if there’s any hesitation in supplying this, you should probably question why.

#3 Can Local Performance Data Be Supplied

Many of the better brands have verifiable, local testing data, which proves that the performance of the panels in Australian conditions.

Sadly, not everything in a brochure is true. As a result, independent testing, makes for a much better product comparison.

#4 Is It A Good Deal or A Cheap Product

We all like saving money and getting a good deal, but sometimes the most expensive choice is a cheap product.

Our Australian sun is great for producing solar power, but equally great at exposing weaknesses in poorly made panels.

#5 Does This System Take Into Account The Installation Location

A big part of the reason GCR prefers to provide in-home assessments for your solar power system, is that the right system for you, will be influenced by your specific location.

If you live near the coast, your panels should be salt and ammonia resistant. Again, you want this to be independently tested, and included in your warranty.

Also, if there are large trees on your property, you’ll want to ensure your panels use quality, low-iron, tempered glass, with a minimum thickness of 3.2mm. In the event of sticks or branches falling on your panels, you don’t want an insurance excess gobbling up the savings on your power bill.

Get the right system and the right advice

Selecting your solar power solution is an important decision. Done correctly, and you’ll enjoy great savings on your power bills for many years to come.

To help you achieve this, GCR Electrical Systems, offers a free, in-home energy assessment, to home and business owners in Hervey Bay and surrounding areas.

This assessment, is designed to provide you with the very best options, for your budget and requirements, with some of the best warranties and local support available.

Especially with upcoming changes to solar rebates, we want you to enjoy a quality system, with the peace of mind that your investment is protected for many years to come.

Summary

From 31st January 2018, replacement solar panels will not be eligible to receive any subsidies from STCs.

While this provides a major disincentive to suppliers using low quality panels, homeowners also need to be aware of what to look for in purchasing their system, to ensure they are adequately protected in the event of needing to make a warranty claim.

To help ensure that you have the best options available to you, GCR offers a free in-home energy assessment to residents of Hervey Bay and surrounding areas. Should you wish to take advantage of this, you can call us on (07) 4194 2753