Solar Systems in Bathurst, Orange, and the Central West

Grid Connected Solar Systems with Net Metering

When the sun shines on a solar module the solar cells generate DC electricity. A grid connected inverter converts the DC electricity produced by the solar cells into 240V AC electricity, which is then fed back into the sites electricity system or exported to the electricity grid. In the event that the electricity grid fails, the inverter will sense that the grid is no longer active and will shut down as a protection measure.

The electricity fed back into the grid is recorded on a grid interactive net meter. If you do not utilise all of your solar generated electricity, your electricity retailer may pay you a nominal amount for each excess kilowatt hour of electricity that your grid connected system feeds back into the grid.

Solar Power – Tariffs and Savings

In an unfortunate turn of events, the NSW Solar Bonus Feed-in Tariff Scheme was suspended on 28 April 2011.

New South Wales’ solar feed in tariff was one of the most generous in the country, paying owners for every kWh of solar energy they generate, whether they consume it or export it to the grid. Below is the list of electricity retailers in NSW that are currently offering a feed in tariff.

It is important to keep in mind, however, that with electricity prices on the rise across the country and in NSW in particular, there is a still a strong argument for installing a solar power system in NSW even without the state incentives.

For further information on the NSW feed in tariff please see the NSW feed in tariff fact sheet.

Gross vs. Net Metering

A gross metered system exports all generated electricity to the grid. The gross feed in tariff scheme has been closed to all new grid connect applicants in NSW.

A net metered system allows you to use any solar generated electricity at your site first and any surplus is exported to the grid. This means you will not be charged for any electricity you consume that you have generated with your solar system if the generation and consumption of the electricity occurs at the same time. This will reduce your electricity bill by the equivalent number of kilowatt hours.

Any electricity that is exported back into the grid is recorded on a net meter.

There is currently no mandated feed in tariff in NSW although some retailers will pay a nominal rate per kilowatt hour. Check with your energy provider for more details.

Potential savings under the net metering system are based on your daytime consumption and the output of the system you install. We can assist you to calculate the benefit.

A typical 1.5kW system installed in the Central West will produce approximately 2400kWh per annum. If consumed onsite where electricity is currently charged at $0.30/kWh, it could save consumers up to approximately $739.50 per annum.

Dynamic Solar are your local alternative energy experts. Contact us today to discuss an effective solution for your alternative energy needs.

Grid Connected with Battery Storage

As a variation on grid connected solar systems, a grid connected system and off grid system can be integrated together. This allows you to feed energy into the grid while ever the grid is active (offsetting your power consumption), and still be able to power the home or selected circuits using the battery stored energy in the event that the grid fails. By utilising this type of approach you can maximise the benefits of net metering and also have the benefit of seamless power in the event of electricity grid failure.

Dynamic Solar is proud to offer a range of products which utilise battery technology to help you maximise self-use of your solar generation. Find out more about our battery hybrid options here.