[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]There is a lot of media chatter about the ending of the 16c-per-kilowatt-hour solar Feed in Tariff (FitT) on September 30.
Some folks are saying it’s a kick in the pants for those committed to solar; others say it’s a chance to go the whole hog with solar energy storage. The truth lies somewhere between these two extremes of opinion.
Here are the facts from the Energy Rating Systems experts in the answer to a few vital questions:
Explain the FiT scenario. The minimum 16c/kWh Retailer Feed in Tariff, which began in 2012, has been abolished (lost by consumers installed since 2012) by the Essential Services Commission of SA from September 30. (Therefore the
average 3 – 6kW installed consumer will loose between $570 – $940 per year). Households who had solar installed before October 1, 2011, will continue to be paid 44c/kWh by SA Power Networks until June 30, 2028, in what is called the Distributor Feed in Tariff.
What the options going forward to keep my utilities bill under control? Pretty much the same as it always was. Know exactly what your power consumption is and when and how it is used. ERS has an Energy Hour consultation service that analyses a household’s utility usage. We can also advise on monitoring and control systems to time your domestic appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines, to operate when your solar panels are harvesting the sun’s rays to give you free power. Also consider replacing gas appliances with electrical-hybrid or induction equivalents to take full advantage of the power your panels are making.
Why don’t I just add more panels to my roof? This is only viable if you can consume the energy or store it in your energy storage system. You want to avoid producing energy and feeding it back into the grid to receive a pitiful 5-8 or so cents per kWh. Take our Energy Challenge to see your Homes’ viability & potential
What about installing a battery? Talk to our experts, who can give you the best advice for your situation. Domestic power storage is the hottest energy issue at the moment and there is a lot of confusing information out there. It is an investment for the future and all investments need sound reasoning behind what will be a long-term commitment.
ERS is at the forefront of energy-saving technology in South Australia. We have a suite of new technology & hybrid products to address every aspect of a household’s energy needs. Talk to us now.
With the current minimum of 6.8 cents per kWh, those who were used to 16 cents are about to feel the pain. Call us Now – 1800 171 000[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]