Published

11 months ago

December 24, 2024

Alice Rush

Switching to renewable energy is no longer optional—it’s a smart and necessary choice for modern businesses to stay competitive.

Solar energy helps protect against rising electricity prices, provides long-term savings, and shows your commitment to the environment, which appeals to customers, investors, and employees.

In today’s world, where people care more about sustainability, adopting solar power positions your business as a leader in innovation and eco-friendly practices.

That’s why today we will discuss the top 8 benefits of commercial solar for Australian businesses.

Commercial solar systems can lower your carbon footprint, improve efficiency, strengthen your brand image, and protect your business from future energy price hikes with customised solutions to fit your energy needs.

This isn’t just about saving money; it’s about preparing for the future, supporting green initiatives, and positively impacting your business and the planet.

Solar for Businesses|Understanding Commercial Solar

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology uses the sun’s energy to create electricity. It involves installing solar panels that capture sunlight and convert it into power.

Over recent years, solar PV systems have become more affordable and practical, making them a popular choice for businesses aiming to save on energy costs while protecting the environment.

Commercial solar systems are larger and more powerful than residential ones. For example, while a typical home solar system in 2024 might generate 6.6 kW with around 18 panels, commercial systems can be much bigger.

They are usually categorised into three types based on size:

Small systems (under 30 kW, up to 100 panels)

Medium systems (30-60 kW)

Large systems (over 60 kW)

Because these systems are larger, they generate more energy, which is especially useful for businesses with high energy demands or large roof space.

However, commercial systems often involve extra costs and technical requirements, like grid connection approvals and protective equipment for systems over 30 kW.

Recent solar PV technology advancements have improved solar panels’ efficiency, allowing businesses to generate more energy.

Key Components of a Commercial Solar System

Solar Panels:

Solar panels are the core of any system, turning sunlight into electricity. Businesses typically choose between two types of panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. The choice depends on budget, energy needs, and installation conditions.

Get the 5 Best Commercial Solar Panels for Businesses in 2024.

Inverters:

Inverters convert the direct current (DC) from solar panels into alternating current (AC), which powers appliances and connects to the grid.

String Inverters: Cost-effective for large systems with consistent sunlight.

Microinverters are more efficient for setups with shading or uneven sunlight, as they optimise each panel separately.

Battery Storage (Optional):

Batteries store excess solar energy during cloudy periods or peak hours, helping businesses further reduce energy costs. Choosing the right solar battery storage depends on energy needs, budget, and warranty options.

Top 8 Benefits of Commercial Solar for Australian Businesses

Switching to solar power is smart for Australian businesses, offering financial savings, energy security, and environmental benefits.

As solar energy becomes more affordable and efficient, it’s an excellent choice for businesses looking to reduce costs and embrace sustainability.

Here are the top benefits of commercial solar for businesses in Australia:

1. Significant Cost Savings

One of the biggest advantages of installing solar panels is the reduction in electricity bills. Solar systems allow businesses to generate their power, cutting down the amount of electricity they need to buy from the grid.

Over time, these savings can be substantial, helping businesses lower their operating expenses and improve profitability.

2. Protection Against Rising Energy Costs

Electricity prices in Australia can be unpredictable, with costs often rising over time. Solar power provides a reliable and stable energy source, reducing your business’s dependence on the grid.

By generating your energy, you protect yourself from price hikes and gain better control over your energy expenses.

3. Government Incentives and Rebates

Australian businesses can use government support to make solar installations more affordable.

Programs like Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and tax incentives help offset the upfront costs of installing a solar system. These incentives make the switch to solar even more appealing.

4. Improved Sustainability

Using solar power shows that your business cares about the environment. Switching to renewable energy can significantly lower your carbon footprint.

This helps combat climate change and aligns your business with global sustainability goals, appealing to eco-conscious customers and investors.

5. Enhanced Business Reputation

Consumers and investors are increasingly drawn to businesses that demonstrate social and environmental responsibility.

Adopting solar power showcases your commitment to green practices, improves your brand image, and sets you apart as an industry leader in sustainability.

6. Increased Energy Independence

With a solar power system, your business relies less on the grid for energy. Adding battery storage allows you to store excess energy for later use, ensuring a steady power supply even during peak times or outages.

This level of energy independence provides peace of mind and operational stability.

7. Long-Term Investment Benefits

Installing a commercial solar system is a long-term investment that can increase your property’s value.

Over its 25–30-year lifespan, a well-maintained solar system offers consistent performance and savings. This means your business benefits financially while contributing to a cleaner future.

8. Contribution to a Greener Australia

Adopting solar power makes your business part of Australia’s larger movement toward renewable energy.

This shift benefits your company and helps the country transition to cleaner energy sources, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Switching to commercial solar isn’t just about saving money—it’s a step toward a more sustainable, stable, and profitable future. By making this change, Australian businesses can lead the way in innovation and environmental responsibility.

Boost Your Business Growth| A Must-Read Commercial Solar Guide

Understanding commercial solar power is essential for businesses looking to save money and adopt sustainable practices.

This guide covers everything you need to know about solar energy systems, from their benefits to how they work. Whether you’re new to solar or planning an upgrade, this guide will help you make informed decisions for your business.

Thanks to its abundant sunlight and government support, Australia is one of the best places for solar energy.

Many businesses are switching to commercial solar systems to cut electricity costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and gain a competitive edge. Solar power is becoming a key part of how Australian businesses operate efficiently and sustainably.

Installing a commercial solar system can do more than just lower your energy bills—it can help your business grow.

Solar power reduces operating costs, improves brand reputation, and increases energy independence, allowing you to focus more on expanding your business. Investing in solar today sets the stage for a greener, more profitable future.

Choosing the Right Commercial Solar System Size for Your Business| Cyanergy’s Proven Expertise

The ideal size of a rooftop solar system for your business depends on a few key factors:

How much electricity does your business use, the timing of your energy consumption, your budget, and what amount of sunny roof space is available for installing solar panels? In some locations, some rules limit the system size you can install.

Tools like solar and battery calculators can help you determine the right system size. Cyanergy recommends a system size that can pay for itself within five years for small businesses.

However, the time it takes to recover costs can vary based on weather, maintenance expenses, and future electricity prices.

Cyanergy suggests installing the largest system that allows at least 80% of the energy produced to be used directly by your company for businesses with higher electricity needs.

This approach works well because some businesses may not qualify for electricity pricing plans that offer payment for surplus energy sent back to the grid (feed-in tariffs).

In these cases, it’s more practical to size the system so that most solar energy is used on-site, maximising your savings and efficiency.

How much do Commercial Solar Panels Cost?

The cost of commercial solar panels in Australia varies depending on the size of the system and additional installation requirements. Here are approximate price ranges for installed systems as of late 2024:

10kW System: Around AUD 9,700 to AUD 12,500

20kW System: AUD 15,000 to AUD 22,000

50kW System: AUD 46,800 to AUD 55,800

100kW System: AUD 88,100 to AUD 93,600

These prices include government incentives under the federal Renewable Energy Target (STCs) but exclude additional costs like grid connection studies or meter installations.

The exact cost can vary by location, the installation’s complexity, and the components’ quality.

If you’re considering commercial solar for your business, it’s advisable to consult with solar providers who can tailor the system to your energy needs and help you navigate available incentives.

Why Choose Cyanergy as your Commercial Solar Partner?

Every business solar system we offer our partners is carefully tailored to their requirements.

Our 10 years of specialised solutions have helped our 500++ commercial partners secure government assistance to decrease energy expenses, become self-sufficient, and minimise their carbon footprint.

Through our financing alternatives, government programs, and internal project management team, we offer practical solutions to help you achieve your goals.

Contact Cyanergy now! Don’t forget to get your free solar quote.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Top 8 Benefits of Commercial Solar for Australian Businesses appeared first on Cyanergy.

https://cyanergy.com.au/blog/top-8-benefits-of-commercial-solar-for-australian-businesses/

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

2 days ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.