Published

1 year ago

April 15, 2024

Alice Rush

In recent years, the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions has become increasingly prevalent, with businesses across Australia recognizing the numerous advantages of transitioning to commercial solar power.

As the cost of solar technology continues to decrease and environmental consciousness rises, the benefits of solar installation for businesses has never been greater.

In this article, we will explore the advantages of commercial solar power and why it presents a compelling opportunity for businesses in Australia.

But first,

Understanding Commercial Solar Power is Necessary

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is an efficient way for homes and businesses to harness solar energy. It entails installing solar panels, which convert solar energy into electricity. Solar PV systems have been increasingly popular in recent years, making them a more cost-effective and beneficial option for businesses looking to reduce energy expenses while also helping to clean up the environment.

Commercial solar systems are often larger and can generate more energy than residential ones. For example, a typical house solar power system in 2024 will be around 6.6 kW, with approximately 18 cells. On the other hand, company solar systems can be classified into three types.

Types of Commercial Solar Power

Less than 30 kW (up to approximately 100 panels).
Above 39 kW and under 60 kW
Larger systems over 60 kW

Because commercial solar power is larger, they can accommodate more panels, allowing them to produce more energy. This is especially beneficial for businesses who require a lot of energy or have plenty of space on their rooftops to install solar panels.

Commercial solar power has higher installation costs and engineering requirements than residential solar power. This is mostly due to the grid connection process and the requirement for grid protection units when a system has more than 30 kW of linked inverter capacity.

Recent progress in solar PV technology has led to significant improvements in the effectiveness of commercial solar cells. Australian commercial solar companies, for instance, have developed some of the most effective commercial solar cells globally, with an efficiency rating of around 14 to 16 percent just a decade ago. This increased efficiency enables businesses to produce even more energy from their commercial solar systems.

To sum up, comprehending commercial solar involves acquainting oneself with solar PV technology and the distinctions between residential and commercial solar systems.

By taking into account the size, energy generation capacity, and enhancements in solar cell efficiency, businesses can better prepare themselves to make well-informed decisions about integrating solar energy as part of their sustainability and cost-cutting strategies.

Commercial solar power offers several benefits to businesses, such as significant cost savings, increased environmental sustainability, and the potential for increased property value.

It is crucial to choose the right equipment and collaborate with a trustworthy solar installer to guarantee the system’s durability and consistent performance over time.

The Benefits of Solar Installation in Business

Cost Savings:

One of the most important benefits of commercial solar power is the potential for significant cost savings. Businesses that generate their own electricity using solar panels can dramatically reduce their dependency on regular grid power, resulting in cheaper energy bills and long-term financial benefits.

Furthermore, with numerous government incentives and rebates available for commercial solar installations, the initial expenditure can be offset, making it a financially viable option for businesses of all sizes.

Environmental Sustainability:

Businesses that use commercial solar power can demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Commercial businesses that use clean, renewable energy from the sun can drastically lower their carbon impact and contribute to a greener future.

This not only coincides with the growing consumer preference for eco-friendly enterprises but also helps businesses achieve legal obligations and sustainability standards.

Energy Independence and Stability:

Relying on traditional grid electricity exposes firms to fluctuating energy prices and supply outages. Commercial solar power provides businesses with a dependable and consistent source of electricity, allowing them to achieve some level of energy independence.

This independence can be especially useful at times of high demand or grid failures, ensuring continuous operations and limiting the impact of energy price fluctuations.

Enhanced Brand Reputation:

Investing in commercial solar electricity can help improve a company’s brand reputation and image. A dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship can resonate with consumers, employees, and stakeholders, establishing the company as a forward-thinking and responsible player in its industry.

This positive brand image can boost consumer loyalty, staff happiness, and provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Long-Term Investment and ROI:

While the initial cost of commercial solar installation may appear high, it is critical to consider the long-term return on investment (ROI).

Solar panels are long-lasting and require little maintenance, with a normal lifespan of 25 years or more. This long-term investment can result in significant energy cost reductions over time, eventually leading to a positive ROI and enhanced profitability for the company.

Adaptability and Scalability:

Commercial solar power systems are highly adjustable and expandable, making them ideal for businesses of all sizes and industries. Solar panels, whether positioned on rooftops, ground-mounted on premises, or integrated into building facades, can be customised to fulfil individual energy and spatial requirements. Furthermore, when enterprises grow or expand, new solar capacity can be effortlessly integrated to meet rising energy demands.

Investment and Financing Options

Government Incentives

The Australian government provides financial incentives for firms investing in commercial solar systems. The two main schemes are Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs).

STCs offer an upfront rebate on small-scale solar systems (up to 100kW), lowering the initial investment necessary for installation.

LGCs, on the other hand, are established annually based on the actual amount of renewable energy generated by large-scale solar systems (greater than 100kW) and can be sold to electricity retailers, giving investors with a consistent revenue stream.

Loans and Leasing

Commercial solar systems can also be financed through loans or leasing agreements. There are many energy efficiency and renewable energy specialists who can connect you with financial loan providers, with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options.

These loans enable businesses to invest in solar systems without the requirement for significant upfront capital. And these financial options are dedicated to making the whole commercial solar installation process easier.

Leasing, on the other hand, allows enterprises to use solar energy without owning the equipment. A leasing company owns and installs the solar equipment, while the business pays a set monthly fee to use it.

Depending on the leasing terms, the system can be purchased at the conclusion of the lease or updated to a newer system, giving you flexibility and continuing access to the newest technology.

Commercial Solar in Australia.

The solar industry in Australia is a substantial contributor to the country’s renewable energy sector. The commercial solar sector has grown significantly in recent years to meet the Australian government’s legislated renewable energy target. Various states across the country have created their own plans and regulations to encourage the development of commercial solar projects.

In conclusion, the benefits of commercial solar power for businesses in Australia are multifaceted and compelling. From cost savings and environmental sustainability to enhanced brand image and long-term investment potential, transitioning to solar power presents a strategic opportunity for businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

As the momentum towards renewable energy continues to accelerate, embracing commercial solar power is not only a sound business decision but also a proactive step towards a more sustainable future.

By harnessing the power of the sun, businesses can unlock a myriad of advantages that extend beyond the bottom line, positioning themselves as leaders in sustainability and innovation within the Australian business community.

As businesses navigate the complexities of today’s economic and environmental challenges, commercial solar power stands out as a tangible solution that delivers tangible benefits for both the present and the future.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Commercial Solar Power: The Benefits of Solar Installation for Businesses appeared first on Cyanergy.

Commercial Solar Power: The Benefits of Solar Installation for Businesses

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

3 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

August 15, 2025

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action.

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

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ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

3 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff.

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes!

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems.

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia?

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective.

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

In this blog post:

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage.

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day.

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar.

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint.

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there!

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery:

Energy Independence

Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the Australian energy market.

Maximized Savings

Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability.

Better Return on Investment ROI

Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates?

Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%.

These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.

Peace of Mind

Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.

Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind.

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone.

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question.

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things:

Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day.

Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting.

Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid.

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.

For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.

Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.

For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here.

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system.

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage.

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process.

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage

Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining.

You don’t have to care about power outages anymore

In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source

Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak

During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun.

Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source.

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system:

Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.

Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk.

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage

One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents.

Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments.

Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime.

While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time.

Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most.

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030.

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia.

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

4 days ago

August 14, 2025

Alice Rush

I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.