We've answered a range of questions frequently asked about the Conergy Photovoltaic Systems. If your question isn't answered below, contact us via email.
How long will the sun produce our solar energy?
The sun has produced energy for many millions of years and will do so for many millions more. It is estimated that there is still enough hydrogen in the sun's core to last another 4.5 billion years. Solar energy as we refer to it is the solar radiation (light and heat) that reaches the earth. Every day the sun radiates enormous amounts of heat and light energy. The planet and the atmosphere absorb some of this energy with the remainder being reflected back out into space.
How does the sun’s solar energy compare with human energy consumption?
The amount of solar energy reaching the earth's surface is 6000 times the amount of energy used by all human beings worldwide.
What are the advantages of renewable energy?
Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources will never run out. Renewable energy facilities generally require less maintenance than traditional generators. As their fuel is derived from natural and available resources, it reduces the costs of operation.
Even more importantly, renewable energy produces little or no pollution such as carbon dioxide or other gases, and so has minimal impact on the environment.
What can affect the amount of solar energy received?
The strength of the solar energy available depends on the time of year, the time of day, and the latitude of the generation point. The amount of energy generated can be further affected by the amount of dust and water vapour in the air, and the amount of cloud cover.
What is a solar module and what does it do?
A solar module is a device which converts sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. It produces electricity suitable for use in your home and for charging batteries.
Are there different types of modules?
Yes, there are various modules with different power ratings measured in Watts. Conergy has a range of modules that cater for a variety of applications.
What type of solar power systems are there?
There are two types of solar systems, standalone and grid connect. Grid connect systems, often located in built up areas, supply solar electricity through an inverter directly to the household or the electricity grid if the system is providing more energy than the house needs. Standalone systems usually operate in remote areas, away from power supply lines or where supply can be unreliable. The electricity generated by the system is usually stored in a battery bank consisting of deep cycle batteries which are suited for repeated partial charge and discharge.
What does a typical home solar power system consist of?
A simple standalone system would typically consist of a few solar modules, a solar regulator, an inverter and a battery bank. Sometimes they work in conjunction with other forms of generators, for example wind or diesel, to charge the battery bank. A simple grid connect system consists of a few solar modules and an inverter which converts the DC electricity into AC and is connected to the power grid through the electricity meter.
How can my system generate 240V AC?
This can be achieved by installing an inverter into the system. The inverter converts DC electricity into 240V AC. Solar systems are versatile and can be designed for both AC and DC, or can be converted at a later date. Solar systems can also be expanded to grow with your needs.
What does a solar regulator do and is it always necessary?
A regulator controls the amount of energy going into the batteries from the solar modules and protects them from over-charging. It is not always necessary for very small systems which only use a couple of modules.
What battery should I use?
There are various batteries which can be used. Car batteries are not suitable for solar applications. Only solar batteries designed for repeated cycling (partial discharge, then recharge) should be used. Conergy offers a range of batteries which are specifically designed for use with solar power systems.
How can I calculate my total electrical demand?
Your total electrical demand (or ‘load’) can be calculated by your installer. You will need to provide them with information such as the number of lights, appliances etc. you wish to run off the solar system. You will need to state your average daily use which is listed in many electricity bills. The installer will then be able to calculate the kilowatt hours per day, or ampere hours per day, that the system will need to provide to generate complete supply.
What about cost?
Each system cost will be individually calculated by your installer according to your needs. Small solar power system costs start at around $10 000 and a system to provide most of the electricity for an average home can cost up to $30 000 for on-grid. There is currently a $8000 rebate available from the Federal Government, as part of their Solar Homes & Communities Program.
If yu are installing a stand alone system, the cost will be higher, however the government's Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP) offers a rebate of up to 50% of system cost for homes away from the grid, that would otherwise be charged $30 000 to connect to the grid.
What exactly is the SHCP rebate and how does it work?
The Solar Homes & Communities Program is a Federal Government initiative that provides funding to assist in the purchase of photovoltaic (PV or solar) power systems serving households and community buildings. The objectives of the SHCP are to encourage the long-term use of photovoltaic technology, reduce greenhouse emissions, assist in the development of the Australian photovoltaic industry and increase awareness of renewable energy. The funding for the program is provided by The Commonwealth and is currently means tested to a combined household income of under $100,00.
What about the energy it takes to produce a solar power system?
Although solar electricity is pollution-free, PV systems require a certain amount of energy which must be ‘reimbursed’ before they can be considered as renewable and clean. An assessment from the International Energy Agency concluded in mid 2006 that roof-top solar PV systems recover their energy content (from manufacturing and recycling) within 1.6 to 1.8 years in Australia. Once they have reimbursed their initial energy input, roof-top PV systems can avoid the emission of 40 tonnes of CO2, depending on their location and on the local electricity mix available. Roof-top PV systems in Australia are expected to produce around 17 times the amount of energy needed for manufacture, installation and dismantling.
Final advice
Please remember that due to the dangers associated with low voltage electricity (DC and AC), as well as working at heights, a licensed electrician should always be used to install your system.
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