FAQ

A solar PV panel is an array or assembly of photo-voltaic cells mounted in a framework for installa?on. Photo-voltaic cells use sunlight as a source of energy and generate direct current electricity that then feeds through to your inverter.

A power inverter, or solar inverter, is a power electronic device that changes direct current to alternating current. The input voltage, output voltage and frequency, which allows the energy collected through your solar panels to be converted into a useable current for your home.

A feed-in tariff (FiT) is a credit you receive for any unused electricity that your solar power system sends back to the power grid. It's usually a set rate per kilowatt hour and paid as a credit on electricity bills.

When your Solar PV systems is generating more energy than you need through the day, you can consider adding a battery system to harvest this excess energy so that you can use it at times when the sun is not shining.

When you have a new solar system installed, you will need to change your meter to what is commonly referred to as a "Smart or Digital Meter'. This will allow you to measure the energy generation and consumption of your system during the day. Your energy retailer supports a meter change if needed.

If you have chosen to connect your solar PV system to the grid, it means that your system will be able to feed excess energy back to your energy retailer and be paid for it with a feed-in tariff. It also means that when the sun is not shining you will still be able to draw energy from the grid to power your home. Before a system can be connected to the grid it will need to be inspected for safety and signed off by a qualified technician. If you choose not to have your system "grid connected" it means that the solar generation can only be used by you in your home and any excess energy will be wasted unless it can be collected through the use of a battery system.

An STC is a financial incentive provided to customers at the point of sale (as a discount to the total price of the project). Your STC incentive will only apply to your solar PV system and will vary depending on the size of your system, where you live and current market rates at the time of purchase and installation. STCs are calculated using the kW of the solar panels being installed, the zone you live in and the deeming period (e.g. five or 10 years). The value of an STC varies depending on market conditions but traditionally ranges between $30-40 each. When you assign your STCs to Elevate Solar and receive a discount on your system, Elevate Solar will be able to register and trade these certificates with the Renewable Energy Regulator to be reimbursed. At any time, you can choose to forge the discount on your system and trade the certificates yourself with the Regulator. We recommend that you research this process to be fully informed of the risks and details prior to opting for this method.