Frequently Asked Questions
Solar STCs, or Solar Small-scale Technology Certificates, are renewable energy certificates associated with small-scale solar power systems in Australia. They represent the environmental benefits obtained from generating renewable energy. Eligible solar power systems with a capacity of 100 kilowatts or less can create and sell STCs based on factors such as system capacity, location, installation date, and expected energy generation.
Essentially, they can be used to lower the cost of your new Solar PV system and we can handle the process for you.
We consider a variety of factors prior to recommending an appropriately sized system. Believe it or not, a bigger system doesn’t mean that you get the best benefit. When assessing the suitability of a Solar PV system, we assess the following.
- Your energy consumption throughout the year
- Your location and the surrounding environment (trees, neighboring buildings ect)
- Your roof type and space available
- Your long-term plans
- Your budget
- Your energy habits and the overall profile of the home/business
The good news is that we consult with you on sizing a solar system and consider all the above criteria before proposing a tailored solution.
Put simply, whatever energy doesn’t get used by the household is “exported” to the electricity Grid at a rate determined by the energy retailer. This rate is referred to as a feed in tariff (FIT) and is measured in cents per kilo watt hour (c/kWh). Some electricity retailers offer a higher feed in tariff for excess solar, but it is important to understand what your usage rate is in exchange for a higher FIT. Sometimes, it is not worth sending anything back to the grid because it simply isn’t worth that much.
Another effective way to utilize excess energy generated by solar is to install a Battery. This allows you to store and use solar energy during peak demand periods (4pm-9pm) where charges are higher than off peak periods (daytime).
When assessing if a battery is a good fit for your home or business, we consider the following
- Energy use patterns – Do you use little energy during the day and substantial amounts at night?
- Current Solar System Size – is there a greater excess of solar energy not being used and sent to the grid?
- Grid Reliability – Is your home or business prone to outages caused by poor grid infrastructure or prone to blackouts caused by natural disasters?
- Available Space – Some battery systems require varied installation requirements as well as protections (ie Bollards) that may take up more space
- Your Energy Goals – Is your goal to reduce your carbon footprint? Do you have the desire to be energy independent?
- Budget - Calculate the potential savings from reduced reliance on the grid during peak electricity rates, as well as the payback period for the battery investment.
In most cases, battery storage can be retrofitted to an existing solar system. Our team can evaluate your current solar setup and determine the compatibility and feasibility of integrating a battery storage solution.
The lifespan of a battery storage system can vary depending on factors such as the type of battery technology, usage patterns, and maintenance. Generally, battery systems are designed to last for a certain number of charging and discharging cycles, typically ranging from 5 to 15 years. Our experts can provide more specific information about the expected lifespan of the battery storage system we offer.
In Australia, there are 3 types of EV Chargers
Level 1 – AC Chargers – Single Phase (10-15 Amp)
These chargers are typically used in domestic homes and is traditionally supplied upon purchase of the vehicle as standard. For a vehicle owner who drives in low kilometer ranges (up to 15km per day) it may well suit. The charging power ranges from 1.4 kW – 2.4kW so charging times can take up to 40 hours depending on the battery size.
Level 2 – AC Chargers – Three Phase (32 Amp)
These chargers can be used in a variety of settings including stand alone homes, apartment complexes, shopping centers, commercial buildings, and hotels for example. It allows a shorter charge time for top up charge (1 hour) or can recharge the battery completely overnight. With charging power of up to 7.2kW it is the best domestic and commercial option for the EV Owner who drives for longer distances daily.
Level 3 – DC Chargers – Three Phase (40-500 Amp)
The DC Charger is a dedicated fast charger predominantly used in commercial locations and dedicated roadside/highway stations. These chargers provide the same convenience and speed as someone who fills their vehicle with fuel at a petrol station. The charging power ranges from 25kW to 350kW so full charge can be achieved in 10-15 minutes.
When it comes to installing your EV charger, it's essential to prioritise safety and convenience. At OneAU Energy, we recommend installing your electric car charger in a covered area or garage, but it can also be placed outdoors if necessary.
In Australia, it is mandatory to have dedicated EV chargers installed by a licensed electrician or qualified technician. It's important to note that you should not attempt to install your own electric vehicle charger at home. To ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards, it's always best to rely on the expertise of professionals.
At OneAU Energy, we provide standard professional installation services when you purchase an EV charger from us. Our experienced EV specialists will collaborate with you to determine the ideal location for your charger, taking into account our installation requirements. We will guide you on where to set up your charging point, considering your preferences and needs as much as possible.
By entrusting the installation process to our qualified team, you can have peace of mind knowing that your EV charger will be installed safely, efficiently, and in a way that meets industry standards. Our goal is to make the installation process as seamless as possible, ensuring that you can enjoy the benefits of your EV charger without any concerns.