Frequently Asked Questions
When will my solar system pay itself off? Payback periods?
A solar system is a financial asset with significant benefits. Payback periods vary: businesses and schools with daytime energy use can see payback in under 2 years, while households typically take 4–7 years. Load shifting, like using appliances during the day, can reduce payback time. With ROIs of 9% or more, solar often outperforms other investments, offering returns of 20–30% with no risk of loss. The key question isn’t payback but whether you’d rather invest in solar or keep paying energy retailers indefinitely.
How do I know that I am getting a good quality system?
Buying a solar system is a unique experience with brands often unfamiliar to customers. Reputable installers use proven products like Fronius, SMA, Delta, Trina, SunPower, and others to ensure performance and reliable support, avoiding warranty issues. Beyond panels and inverters, the "balance of system" (BoS) components—cabling, isolators, and mounting—are crucial. Cutting corners here can lead to safety hazards, such as fires or structural failures. A quality solar company prioritizes durable components, proper installations, and a strong reputation. Always inquire about these aspects when reviewing quotes.
Why should I choose an accredited and solar approved retailer?
Installing a solar power system is complex, involving grid connection, safety, and compliance. Designers and installers must be Clean Energy Council certified and meet strict OH&S requirements like using fall protection. After installation, a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) ensures compliance, followed by an inspection. Low-cost systems often fail this step, requiring fixes. Certification doesn’t guarantee quality but ensures installers adhere to industry standards.
Many companies stress they have Tier 1 panels. What does that mean?
A Tier 1 ranking, devised by Bloomberg, measures a solar company's bankability, not the quality of its products. It reflects the company's stability as a lender for large-scale projects, not panel performance. Despite being marketed as a quality metric, Tier 1 status doesn't guarantee reliability; some Tier 1 companies have faced bankruptcy or product failures. If a company emphasizes "Tier 1 panels" without specifying the brand, be cautious and seek transparency in your quote.
What are grid-voltage issues?
If your inverter has issues, contact OZ Solar for assistance, as it could stem from various causes. In Victoria, a common issue is periodic shutdowns due to grid-voltage fluctuations caused by high solar production and low energy consumption during the day. Inverter safety settings may shut the system down, affecting efficiency. Our technicians can often resolve this by adjusting the inverter settings. Persistent issues may require the energy distributor to make supply adjustments or upgrades.
How long does it take to be grid-connected and start receiving my feed-in tariffs?
Grid connection timelines vary across the industry and depend on the processing time of paperwork by the solar retailer (OZ Solar) and your energy retailer (e.g., AGL). At OZ Solar, feed-in tariffs typically start within 2–5 weeks, sometimes as quickly as 1 week. Our efficient processes and commitment to service excellence ensure a fast and smooth connection, so you can start saving on your energy bills sooner.
What is battery ready?
Battery ready" is often a marketing term, as all solar systems can support batteries like Tesla, which are AC-coupled and work with any system. However, DC-coupled systems, like Delta or LG Chem, require a hybrid inverter capable of managing both the solar array and batteries. Hybrid inverters combine PV and battery functions in one unit, while systems like Tesla include the battery inverter in the case. Choosing the right battery system requires careful consultation, as options vary. Contact our consultants for detailed guidance.
Is my property single-phase or three-phase?
To identify if your property is single-phase or three-phase, check your main switchboard. A single circuit breaker indicates a single-phase property, common in residential homes. Three circuit breakers controlling the main power supply indicate a three-phase property, typically for larger homes requiring more power.