Disgusting. It’s one thing that “news” in the United States has largely been replaced by incendiary opinions. But it’s even worse that so many of these opinions are so grossly ill-informed.

In its quest to move to the middle of the political spectrum, CNN has integrated a few hard-right commentator, like Jennings.  Fine; I get that.  But do they have to be morons?

In particular, can’t CNN do better than to refer to California as a “failed state?”  If California were a nation it would be the fourth largest economy on the planet, having recently overtaken Japan.

California a “Failed State?”

Despite massive uncertainty across the economy, Duke Energy is plowing ahead with its plan to build new fossil gas-fired power plants to serve data center, manufacturing, and other large customer load that may not even show up. Duke has asked the NC Utilities Commission for permission to build a combined-cycle (CC) gas plant in Person County, North Carolina, at the site of Duke’s Roxboro coal plant.

SACE has argued against the need for this gas power plant in the Certificate of Public Need and Necessity (CPCN) docket, submitting testimony to the Commission on Monday, June 9, 2025. Here’s a summary of that testimony (prepared by Synapse Energy Economics, Inc.), which explains what this all means for Duke’s billpayers, and how Duke can make changes within its control to protect customers and reduce pollution. These recommendations include:

• Not approving this new gas power plant because the risks that it will increase bills are too high. Instead, Duke should improve the processes that are holding back lower-cost renewables and storage, then use renewables and storage to meet new load.
• Instead of approving this specific gas plant, the Commission should order Duke to use an all-source procurement process to determine a portfolio of flexible assets that can meet the utility’s needs based on real-world costs.
• In the event the Commission approves this gas plant, it should protect customers from high bills due to volatile gas prices by instituting a fuel cost sharing mechanism for the fuel costs spent to run this plant.

Duke Doesn’t Need this Risky Gas Power Plant

Duke’s claim that it needs this fossil gas power plant is based on outdated analysis. In this CPCN docket, Duke relies on its 2023 Carbon Plan Integrated Resource Plan (CPIRP) modeling and the CPIRP supplemental update and analysis filed in January 2024. The world has changed dramatically since then, and it is important that the Commission review the latest information before approving expenditures that will impact customer bills for decades.

Duke’s load forecast – once based on steady, predictable growth – is now subject to significant uncertainty as 1) data center developers look around the country for the best deal and the fastest interconnection to the grid and 2) manufacturers announce projects and then pull back as political uncertainty changes the economics of those projects. Under Duke’s current rate structure, prospective companies and site developers do not need to commit much money to become part of Duke’s load forecast. They have very little “skin in the game,” and Duke currently does not have policies in place to change this. If the Commission allows Duke to build an expensive fossil gas plant for load that doesn’t materialize, Duke’s remaining customers will be on the hook to pay for it.

Duke’s own load forecast updates since 2023 show that there are wild swings in its predictions. In the Spring of 2023, Duke anticipated 8 new large load projects during its 10-year planning forecast period, requiring an average of 169 MW each. Then for Fall 2023 (the supplemental update filed in January 2024), Duke anticipated 35 projects requiring an average of 111 MW each. In Summer 2024, Duke changed its forecast again, projecting 39 projects requiring an average of only 103 MW. And in May 2025, Duke filed an update showing a reduction in the number of projects back down to 35 but a dramatic increase in average need – back up to 169 MW. Duke’s forecasts will continue to show swings up and down – both in the number of projects and megawatts – until Duke has policies in place that require more commitment from the companies that knock on its door requesting service. Duke also has not published information regarding the location of these loads – the latest forecast applies to all of Duke Energy in both North and South Carolina.

It is also important to know that that this gas plant isn’t needed to meet growing load from existing customers or to replace retiring coal plants (according to Duke’s own testimony). This gas plant is being justified by new manufacturing and data centers claiming they will be operating somewhere in Duke Energy Progress or Duke Energy Carolinas territory in North or South Carolina.

Even if the load shows up, this plant won’t be needed for long

Even Duke admits that it doesn’t “need” this fossil gas power plant for very long. These kinds of power plants, combined-cycle plants, are typically used about 80% of the time, i.e. they are “baseload” power plants. But even absent federal carbon regulations, Duke expects this power plant’s usage to decline significantly throughout its 35-year lifetime (from 80% in 2030 decreasing to 46% by 2040 and only 13% by 2050 onwards). As cheaper renewables and storage with zero fuel costs are brought online, they will displace this plant. Duke is proposing to build a giant power plant that will very quickly run less and less – but Duke’s customers will continue to pay for it until 2065—15 years past a state law requiring Duke’s generation fleet to be carbon neutral. This represents a significant change in how power plants are built and run, and this is not in the best interest of Duke’s billpayers. To add insult to injury, Duke hasn’t even procured all of the equipment needed to build this plant, so the costs could skyrocket even more than they already have since last year’s carbon plan proceeding.

Renewables are flexible, would protect customers, and would reduce pollution

Duke’s model only chose a gas plant to meet this capacity need because of limits Duke imposed on the model. Duke claims it cannot interconnect renewables and storage fast enough to meet this capacity need, but the reasons it cannot interconnect those resources faster are all within Duke’s control. As Synapse recommends, Duke needs to update its processes that are holding back renewables and storage from serving customers with low-cost and low-risk resources. These processes include interconnection and transmission planning.

SACE has been advocating for improvements to these processes for years, and Duke has made changes to both its interconnection process and transmission planning. Duke was one of the first utilities in the Southeast to implement cluster studies in its interconnection process, and it is in the midst of the first scenario-based transmission planning exercise in the region. But is there evidence that these updates have helped if Duke continues to limit solar and storage in its future resource modeling? Given the much quicker interconnection process recently demonstrated in Texas, this raises the question of how hard Duke is really trying to streamline renewables interconnection.

Modular, flexible resources such as wind, solar, and energy storage can be adjusted in quantity based on market conditions. As our testimony from Synapse states, “This modularity, combined with the fact that solar and wind have zero exposure to fuel price volatility once they are constructed, makes these resources particularly valuable in the face of trade tariff uncertainty.”

The bottom line is that the Commission needs a lot more certainty about load growth and costs before committing Duke’s billpayers to any type of large fossil gas power plant. We simply do not have that now.

The post North Carolina needs more certainty before committing to an expensive new gas plant appeared first on SACE | Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

North Carolina needs more certainty before committing to an expensive new gas plant

Are you thinking of switching to solar but feeling overwhelmed by the wide range of panel options available in the market? 

You’re not alone, as many others feel the same way. 

In a sun-drenched country like Australia, where electricity prices seem to climb every year, more households are turning to solar as a smart, sustainable solution.  

The reason for this energy transition is apparent: harnessing clean, renewable energy gives you energy freedom, saves you costs on electricity bills, and reduces your reliance on fossil fuels, lowering your carbon footprint.   

Moreover, solar panels are not only good for the planet; they’re an investment for your future!  

But with so many types of solar panels, how do you know which one is right for you? 

• Which panels perform best in Australia’s diverse climate?

• What type suits your roof, your budget, and your energy needs?

• And most importantly, are they really worth the cost? 

Well, in this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the above questions and everything you need to know about solar panels in Australia.  

From solar panel types to benefits and efficiencies, this ultimate guide on all types of solar panels in Australia will help you find the most suitable panels for your home and financial needs. 

So, tag along to learn more details!  

In this blog post:

• 
  
  Why Do We Need to Clean Solar Panels?
  

• 
  
  Are Your Panels Dirty? | 6 Signs Your Solar Panels Need Cleaning
  

• 
  
  DIY Solar Panel Cleaning: Must-Have Tools & Safety Tips!
  

• 
  
  Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Solar Panels Safely on Your Roof
  

• 
  
  How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels in Australia?
  

• 
  
  Does Rain Really Clean Solar Panels? Find out!
  

• 
  
  Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cleaning Solar Panels
  

• 
  
  Additional Tips for Long-Term Solar Panel Care
  

• 
  
  Looking for a Professional? Contact Cyanergy Today!
  

What Are Solar Panels? | Breaking Down the Power of the Sun!

Let’s begin by addressing a very basic question: What is a solar panel, and how does it work? 

A solar panel is a device that converts sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. Instead of burning fossil fuel, these different types of solar panels generate clean, renewable energy with Australia’s abundant sunlight.

How Solar Panels Work: A Simple Breakdown!

At the core of every solar panel, there is a set of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are responsible for converting sunlight into usable electricity.  

When sunlight hits these cells, it excites electrons within the silicon-based material, creating an electric current. This current is then captured and converted into alternating current (AC) through an inverter, making it suitable for household or commercial use.  

However, solar panels cannot store energy for later use. Therefore, you might need to add battery storage to keep your home illuminated at night or during low-light hours. 

Are They Worth It for Australians?

Solar panels are generally a smart investment for most Australians due to the country’s high solar exposure, government incentives, and rising electricity costs.  

With abundant sunshine, households in most Australian cities can generate a significant portion of their electricity needs from solar. This energy switch can be a significant key to reducing power bills while enhancing grid stability. 

For example,  a 6.6 kW solar system can save households $1,000–$2,500 per year, depending on usage and feed-in tariffs. They can reduce your power bills by up to 70% 

Moreover, the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), energy-saving schemes and various state rebates and incentives significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar systems.

So, with all these long-term savings, generous incentives, and positive environmental impact, solar panels offer a sustainable solution, making them a worthwhile financial and environmental investment for all.  

What Are the Most Popular Types of Solar Panels Available in Australia?

Australia’s strong solar market offers various solar panel options tailored to different needs, budgets, and property types. Homeowners can access high-quality solar technologies from both local and international manufacturers, creating a global bond.  

However, instead of making a blind choice, it’s wise to understand the different types of panels, as each has different efficiency, durability, and cost advantages.  

So, before moving further, let’s have a glimpse at the most popular types of solar panels currently available in Australia:  

Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Premium Efficiency and Longevity

Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient type of solar panel. They are made from a single, pure crystal structure, which allows electrons to move more freely, resulting in higher efficiency.   

These panels are easily recognizable by their dark black color and rounded edges. While they are more than other types, their high efficiency and longevity make them a great investment. 

What are the Pros? 

• High performance in low-light and high-temperature conditions. 

• Sleek, modern look. 

• Lower long-term cost per watt. 

• Best for homeowners with limited roof space.  

• Incredible longevity and efficiency.  

Talking about Cons: 

• Monocrystalline panels are expensive. 

• The manufacturing process results in silicon waste. 

Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Reliable and Cost-Effective

Polycrystalline solar panels are made from multiple crystal structures, which gives them a blue hue with a speckled look.  

They are less efficient than monocrystalline panels but are also less expensive. These panels are great for those with ample roof space and a tighter budget.  

What are the Pros? 

• More affordable than Monocrystalline panels. 

• Leaves less waste during production. 

• Offer decent performance for residential use. 

• Easier manufacturing process.

Talking about Cons: 

• Less efficient. 

• Require more space than Monocrystalline panels. 

• Lower the aesthetic appeal of homes. 

Thin-Film Solar Panels: Lightweight and Versatile

Thin-film solar panels are the most affordable but least efficient type, with energy efficiency ranging from 7% to 18%. They are made by layering photovoltaic materials onto a surface.  

These panels are flexible, lightweight, and ideal for industrial and commercial use in Australian landscapes. 

The types include: 

• Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Panels 

Cadmium telluride is the most common thin-film panel, constituting about 5% of solar panel sales. These panels can achieve an efficiency rating of 9% to 15%. 

They are made from cheaper, toxic materials such as cadmium telluride and cadmium sulphide, which can pose environmental and health risks. 

• Amorphous Silicon (A-Si) Panels 

Amorphous silicon panels use a different technology that makes them very flexible. Instead of using crystalline silicon wafers, these panels use a thin silicon strip with a rubber-like texture. 

These panels are incredibly lightweight, versatile, non-toxic, and cheap, but have a low efficiency rating of about 7%. 

• Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Panels 

CIGS panels are the most efficient thin-film panels available. They are composed of copper, gallium, indium, and selenide layers placed on a base of steel, glass, plastic, and other materials. 

These panels can be installed where standard panels cannot fit. They have a high enough efficiency rating of 12% to 15%.  

Bifacial Solar Panel: Power from Every Angle!

Bifacial solar panels can generate power from both sides, capturing sunlight that hits the front of the panel and light that reflects onto the back. It’s like double the sides, double the Power! 

This can increase energy production by up to 30%. They are ideal for ground-mounted solar systems or buildings with reflective roofing.  

Concentrated PV Cell (CVP)

Concentrated PV cells are the most efficient type of solar panel available today. They use lenses or curved mirrors to focus sunlight onto a small area of high-efficiency solar cells.   

However, they require direct sunlight and a cooling system to function effectively. They are more suitable for large-scale commercial projects in sunny locations.   

Solar Panel Types by Efficiency and Longevity: A Detailed Comparison

Type	Efficiency	Lifespan	Perfect for
Monocrystalline	18–22%	25+ years	Homeowners with limited roof space or those prioritizing efficiency and longevity.
Polycrystalline	15–17%	20–25 years	Budget-conscious users with ample roof space.
Thin-Film	10–13%	10–20 years	Large buildings, factories, and unconventional surfaces like car roofs or windows.

5 Factors to Look for While Installing a Solar Panel in Australia

Choosing the right panel is just half the job, where installation quality and system design play a huge role in overall performance. 

So, here we’ve listed what to consider before installing a solar panel on your property:

1. Sun Exposure and Roof Orientation

Proper sun exposure is a significant factor for maximizing energy production. In Australia, a north-facing roof typically captures the most sunlight.  

Also, ensure your roof is free of large trees, chimneys, or other shading.

2. Solar Panel Efficiency

Higher solar panel efficiency means more power, which ultimately leads to faster return on investment (ROI). This is especially important if your roof area is limited or you live in a rented property.

3. Durability and Warranty

Look for panels that offer 25-year performance warranties and 10–15-year product warranties.  

These warranties can provide long-term peace of mind and potentially save you significant repair or replacement costs.  

4. Installer Credentials

Once you decide to install solar, choose Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installers.  

They’ll help make sure your system follows Australian rules and let you know about rebate eligibility criteria.  

5. Proper Installation and Aftercare

Lastly, the installer will mount the solar panels on your roof and connect them to a solar inverter.  

After the installation, the system will need to be inspected by a certified electrician. Then, a monitoring app will track how much electricity your system produces and how much you use.

Some Other Hidden Factors That Might Impact Your Solar Setup!

While planning a solar installation, most people focus on the obvious elements like panel type, system size, and cost.  

However, beyond these core considerations, there are several lesser-known factors that can quietly influence the efficiency, longevity, and overall success of your solar setup.   

This includes: 

• Hail Rating of the Panel 

This rating indicates how well solar panels can withstand hail impacts. Panels are typically tested by firing ice balls at them to simulate hail.  

A higher hail rating means better durability in hail-prone areas, reducing the risk of cracks and performance loss. Crystalline panels can handle hail hitting speeds up to 50 mph, while thin-film panels are thinner and less resistant. 

• Temperature Tolerance of the Panel 

Solar panels become less efficient at high temperatures. Temperature tolerance, often measured as a temperature coefficient, tells you how much performance drops per degree above 25°C.  

Lower coefficients mean better performance in hot climates. So, here are the temperature coefficients for different panel types: 

• Monocrystalline: -0.3% to -0.4% / °C  
• Polycrystalline:  -0.4% to -0.5% / °C 
• Thin-film: -0.2% to -0.3% / °C 

• Fire Rating of the Solar Panel 

Solar panels and mounting systems must meet fire safety standards. The fire rating is usually classified in Class A, B, or C, reflecting the system’s resistance to fire spread and ignition.  

Class A is the most fire-resistant, which is crucial in wildfire-prone regions like Australia. 

• Light-Induced Degradation (LID) 

LID (Light-Induced Degradation) is a common issue in crystalline solar panels, where they lose about 1–3% of their performance during the first few hours or days of sun exposure.  

It happens when sunlight reacts with tiny amounts of oxygen left in the silicon during manufacturing.  

This reaction slightly disrupts the silicon structure, reducing the panel’s efficiency. 

How to Choose the Right Solar Panels for Your Property?

Every home has different setups, so the solar panel installation process also varies from home to home. Here’s a stepwise checklist to help tailor the perfect setup: 

Step 1: Assess Your Energy Needs 

Before choosing solar panels, look at how much electricity your home uses. Check your electricity bills to calculate your average daily usage in kWh 

If you’re planning to expand or add things like an electric vehicle or a home addition, consider how that might increase your energy needs in the future. 

Step 2: Evaluate Roof Size and Position 

In Australia, your roof’s position and condition matter greatly for solar energy generation. Therefore, while installing the panel, you should consider: 

• Roof orientation, as south-facing roofs typically capture the most sunlight.

• Proper tilt and shading for minimal shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings.

• Larger roofs offer more installation space, while older roofs may need repairs, so check the roof size and condition first. 

However, if you have limited space, go for high-efficiency monocrystalline panels, and Polycrystalline might be a better value for plenty of space. 

Step 3: Set a Budget 

Solar Power System prices vary widely from place to place. But with our 440W Tier-1 Panels and 5kW Wi-Fi Inverter in a 6.6kW Solar Power System, you can enjoy the benefits of solar power without a hefty price tag. 

• For 6.6 kW System: 

Original Price starts from $3,690.00 

Cyanergy’s VIC Offer Price starts from $890.00 

• For 10.12kW System 

Original Price starts from $5,770.00 

Cyanergy’s VIC Offer Price starts from $2,970.00 

• For 13kW System 

Original Price starts from $7,130.00 

Cyanergy’s VIC Offer Price starts from $4,330.00

Step 4: Find a Trustworthy Installer & Factor in Rebates 

Federal STC rebates and various state-based incentives can save you thousands off your upfront cost, so look for a certified, experienced installer who can help you claim them.

So, Which Solar Panel Type Should You Use?

Honestly, there is no specific answer to this question. The panel type and effectiveness depend on several factors, including your installation location, budget, and aesthetic preferences.  

However, here we’ve shared a quick guide based on different situations to make your purchase decision easier:  

Different Scenarios	Recommended Type
Limited roof space or rental property	Monocrystalline
Tight budget with big roof space	Polycrystalline
Flexible portable solutions	Thin film
Need long-term high output	Monocrystalline
Off-grid or rural installations	Thin-Film or Hybrid

Some of the Best Solar Panels in Australia (2025 Edition)

When choosing the best solar panel brands in Australia, performance, durability, and warranties matter most. 

1. SunPower
• Efficiency: Up to 22.8%
• Warranty: 40 years (industry-best!)
• Why Choose: Premium performance and extreme durability

2. REC Solar
• Efficiency: Up to 21.9% 
• Warranty: 25 years
• Why Choose: Excellent value for performance, strong Australian support

3. Q CELLS
• Efficiency: Up to 21.4%
• Warranty: 25 years
• Why Choose: Robust tech with good performance in varying light conditions

4. Jinko Solar
• Efficiency: Up to 21%
• Warranty: 25 years 
• Why Choose: Jinko’s solar panels are affordable and widely used across Aussie homes

5. LONGi Solar
• Efficiency: 20%
• Warranty: 25 years
• Why Choose: Solid mid-range performer, good balance of cost and quality 

For any queries, contact Cyanergy. Here, our solar experts will provide the best solution based on your preferences.  

Remember, with the right panel type, a trusted installer, and a bit of planning, you can enjoy decades of clean, affordable electricity. 

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The post Ultimate Guide To Understanding Every Type Of Solar Panel appeared first on Cyanergy.

Ultimate Guide To Understanding Every Type Of Solar Panel