If you are planning to build a new home in the future and are considering a solar energy system then there are a few things to consider that will save you time and money.

Grid Connected Solar

When you install a Grid Connected Solar Panel System you are required to have an Import / Export meter installed by ETSA to monitor the power leaving your property.

1 Phase: If you have one installed at the time of building then it will save you approximately $395 + GST.
(N.B: This meter will also do J Tariff for electric hotwater)

3 Phase: If you have one installed at the time of building then it will save you approximately $595 + GST.
(N.B: This meter will not do J Tariff for hotwater so a second meter for your electric hotwater will need to be installed this will affect what size meter box is used on your property)

It is wise to also consider the amount of roof space required for the system size chosen. The optimum pitch and direction is 30 degrees and facing due North respectively.

Grid Connected Solar can also be installed in other directions and pitch but will be slightly less effective in it's output.

Solar Hot Water

When you install a Solar Hot Water System it is wise to consider the weight. It may be necessary to have an extra truss put in to handle the weight if the system has a tank on the roof.

It is wise to also consider the amount of roof space required for the system size chosen. The optimum pitch and direction is 30 degrees and facing due North respectively.

Solar Hot Water can also be installed in other directions and pitch but will be slightly less effective in it's output. There are more effective panels available to help counter act this.

Give us a call and we will be more than happy to help with the best advice for your particular house design.
 
Ideas to Consider if Building

Insulate your home. Keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer by installing insulation in the ceiling and walls, and by plugging any gaps around windows or doors.

Choose the right hot water service. When choosing a hot water service, consider a solar unit. The up-front cost may be higher, but the long term savings will make up for it.

Use gas instead of electricity. If it is an option use gas for cooking, water heating and space heating is cheaper than electricity and greatly reduces your CO2 emissions.

Use shades and blinds. Shades or blinds keep the sun out and your house cool. On cold nights, do the same to keep heat in.

Use energy-efficient lighting. Not only do energy-efficient lights, such as compact fluorescent bulbs, last longer than conventional light bulbs, they can cut the amount of electricity used for lighting by up to 80%.

Buy energy-efficient appliances. When shopping for new household appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines, look for a five or six-star rating. Such appliances will save energy and be cheaper to run.

Avoid excessive use of energy-intensive appliances. Appliances such as clothes dryers and fan heaters use a lot of energy. Where possible, use alternatives such as a clothes line or gas heater.

Install a AAA-rated shower head. A water-efficient shower head can reduce both your electricity and water bills at the same time, and save about a tonne of CO2 per year.