Published

2 years ago

December 20, 2023

Alice Rush

Washington, D.C. – It’s never too late to start changing our future, especially when it comes to diversifying and building equity and inclusion in the e-mobility space. In my position as the Electric Transportation Equity Manager here at the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE), my purpose is to resource creativity, knowledge, and experience to ethically advance the regional integration of electrification benefits. Everyday my work is grounded in finding pathways for diverse innovation and participation, autonomy, ownership, and accessibility of electric mobility and its implementation in communities. This work aims to enhance existing equitable electric transportation policies and programs as well as further SACE’s mission of ensuring clean, safe, and healthy communities throughout the Southeast.

Actively developing my skills in implementing equity measures is an important part of staying informed, aware, and inspired to keep pushing the needle forward on a just transition to electric mobility in the Southeast. Attending the 2023 National E-Mobility DEI (NEMDEI) Conference in Washington, D.C. allowed me to jump right into the latest conversations and frameworks around diversity, equity, and inclusion in the e-mobility space.

The NEMDEI Conference, created in 2020 by EVNoire and Forth, is an annual convening of diverse professionals in the mobility sector focused on equitable electrification. EVNoire, a mobility intelligence group, is an award-winning and nationally recognized expert in e-mobility best practices and promoting equity in e-mobility. They also founded EVHybridNoire, a nonprofit that has the largest network of diverse electric vehicle drivers and enthusiasts in the nation. The conference’s second founder, Forth, is a nonprofit organization committed to expanding fair access to electric transportation by implementing demonstration projects and advocating for progressive policies, as well as producers of the national Roadmap Conference.

The conference was born from EVNoire’s and Forth’s realization of the need for a nationwide platform exemplifying equity in e-mobility programs, policies, and practices. This year’s conference did just that by providing valuable insights from a wide range of voices within the e-mobility ecosystem.

Here are five learnings that stood out at this year’s NEMDEI conference.

Getting the Pulse on the Electric Transportation Transition from Young Leaders

This year’s conference was filled with captivating panels. One that stuck out in particular was titled “Young Leaders in E-Mobility.” This panel brought together six diverse e-mobility leaders early in their careers or currently in college programs to share their perspectives and perceptions on the state and direction of the e-mobility space. One of the strong sentiments shared between the leaders is the urgency they feel about addressing the climate crisis. That convenient excuse of ‘we have to hope the people after us do better’ doesn’t make sense anymore. As Maria Alejandra Segura Betancourt, a Sustainable Transportation Education and Partnerships Associate at Argonne National Laboratory, put it, there are no more cans to kick down the road for the next generation to handle.

When it came to thinking about innovative solutions to the challenges of e-mobility implementation, each leader in the panel offered their own knowledge and ideas, including:

creating e-mobility projects that disrupt systems that hinder communities’ pathways to upward mobility
focusing the conversation of the e-mobility movement around addressing social and environmental needs and see where e-mobility aligns and less on just selling new, shiny electric cars
eliminating inaccessible technical language
using our privilege to make sure the door is not closed to anyone

An Ethical and Compassionate EV Workforce Transition

Another impactful panel was the “E-Mobility Workforce & Economic Inclusion” session. E-mobility leaders well versed in workforce & economic development took the stage to offer fresh perspectives on job opportunities in the EV industry. The switch to cleaner energy doesn’t just mean a change in vehicles, it also means a major changeup in the workforce.

As we strive for a just transition to clean electric transportation, we must consider the best ways to link workforce training opportunities with communities, and also ensure we address the needs of workers currently employed in internal combustion engine and petroleum-related roles. These jobs and livelihoods may become unstable during the switch to electric transportation, and so dialogue, care, and planning on the front end are crucial to protect those who rely on these industries. When we recognize and affirm everyone’s value and experience in the transportation industry, we can more efficiently and more equitably work to remove barriers to realize a just transition to the new green economy. We cannot separate the wellness of people from the wellness of the planet: as one of the speakers, Kianna Scott from ChargerHelp! emphasized, “The energy transition is also a people transition.”

Stepping into the Future with Autonomous Vehicles

Dr. Allanté V. Whitmore was the sole speaker on deck for the session, “The Future of Autonomous Vehicles.” Dr. Whitmore, the U.S. Director of the Autonomous Vehicle Initiative for Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), shared in-depth knowledge on autonomous vehicles (AVs) and future visions and concerns for implementing them. To make sure everyone was on the same page, Dr. Whitmore wanted to make a clear distinction: when you’re talking about AVs, you are always also talking about electric vehicles.

In terms of implementation, Dr. Whitmore does not see AVs being the solution to the electric vehicle transition, but she sees it as part of the solution. Whether it’s using AVs for accessibility purposes or moving goods, there is definitely a need AVs can fill so therefore there needs to be dialogue and policy on how AVs will be implemented. Education on the six following levels of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) was also shared in the session:

Level 0 (No Driving Automation)
Level 1 (Driver Assistance)
Level 2 (Partial Driving Automation)
Level 3 (Conditional Driving Automation)
Level 4 (High Driving Automation)
Level 5 (Full Driving Automation)

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Automated Driving Systems 2.0, A Vision for Safety

Currently the systems drivers see on the street, for example Tesla’s ADAS, are level 2 and 3, which still require a human driver attentive at the wheel. Dr. Whitmore noted as AVs become more advanced, more questions will need to be explored and answered. For example, when level 5 AVs are available, what will they look like? Can we get rid of steering wheels or pedals since they would no longer be needed? This session really encouraged and gave space for the audience to start engaging with the thought of a near, yet unfamiliar future.

How Philanthropy Can Bridge Funding Gaps for Equitable Solutions

Connections to private and public funding play a large role in implementing e-mobility technology, and the panel “The Role of Philanthropy in Equitable E-Mobility” drove that point home stronly. Nick Sifuentes, Program Director for Sustainable Cities from The Summit Foundation, emphasized the added support philanthropy can bring when it comes to filling in the gaps government doesn’t reach or cover, particularly when it comes to resourcing grassroots groups. Angelo Logan, Sr. Director for Environmental and Climate Justice for Liberty Hill Foundation, explained that “moving money to frontline groups” can be a way philanthropic involvement can be utilized.

Sifuentes also shared and agreed with Logan’s thought, as he thinks when it comes to funding climate and environmental justice initiatives it’s about to whom the money is flowing, not just about what. This panel solidified the point that social justice issues are environmental issues and that to successfully push holistically for a better environment, we must recognize the social justice elements in the equation as well. Solving the climate crisis is not only about greenhouse gas reduction, as that is not the only piece of the puzzle. Matt Oberhoffner, Program Officer for the Climate and Clean Energy Program for the Heising-Simons Foundation, summarized the need for shared solidarity in climate advocacy and social justice advocacy by saying, “You can never have a tent that’s too big… we need everyone. We don’t want to make it more difficult being in camps. We need to do it together.”

Grounding E-Mobility Development in Bolstering Services that Communities Need

Continuing with the theme of diversity in e-mobility development, the panel titled “Inclusivity within Innovative Electric Transportation” provided a compelling showcase. Michele Lee, Senior Public Affairs Manager at Cruise, shared her personal mission and connection to e-mobility, emphasizing the urgent need for an accessible environment, particularly in transportation. Lee’s personal experience, stemming from an unexpected loss of mobility due to an accident, highlighted the transformative potential of electric vehicles, especially AVs, as a means for wheelchair users to travel and stay connected. An impactful video was shared featuring Theo Braddy, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living, to illustrate how access to reliable transportation can significantly improve the lives of individuals experiencing social isolation, because as Lee commented, “without transportation, you can’t participate fully in community”.

This presentation not only demonstrated a clear use case for AVs as a solution for communities lacking mobility technologies but also prompted a broader discussion on how e-mobility development can address fundamental needs and services. Beyond the short interactions at charging stations by EV users, planners need to consider the overall daily mobility experiences of communities. Failing to strategically place electric infrastructure and e-mobility programs based on community habits and movement patterns not only diminishes accessibility but also impedes widespread use. This is why integrating discussions about the essential needs and preferences of communities into the e-mobility development and implementation conversation becomes crucial to successful adoption. This holistic approach to the electric transition aims to create an environment that is not only more clean and advanced but also promotes a livable and inclusive space, mitigating the risk of e-mobility infrastructure becoming underutilized and ineffective technology graveyards.

An impactful electric transition is one in which disruptive e-mobility projects are mindfully crafted and align with social and environmental needs.

This year’s conference gave many valuable takeaways, and showcased that projects cannot only focus on the implementation of e-mobility, but must also focus on the people impacted, especially including those who produce the technologies. Linking workforce training with community needs and addressing concerns of workers in traditional roles affected by the shift to electric transportation must be prioritized if we aspire to lead and enact a just and holistic transition. Every lesson from the conference highlighted the interconnectedness of technological advancements, climate action, workforce development, justice work, and diverse stakeholder inclusion in building a sustainable and just future.

Overall, the transformative potential of e-mobility to address community needs and wants is exciting and important. Every planner, advocate, and industry player in the e-mobility space needs to point their north stars toward culturally relevant adoption in order to avoid obsolete, harmful, or inefficient outcomes.

For more information and to stay updated for next year’s registration, visit https://www.emobilitydeiconference.com/

The post Insights from the 2023 National E-Mobility DEI Conference appeared first on SACE | Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

Insights from the 2023 National E-Mobility DEI Conference

Renewable Energy

Marinus Link Approval, Ørsted Strategic Pivot

Published

16 hours ago

August 11, 2025

Alice Rush

Weather Guard Lightning Tech

Marinus Link Approval, Ørsted Strategic Pivot

Allen discusses Australia’s ‘Marinus Link’ power grid connection, a $990 million wind and battery project by Acciona, and the Bank of Ireland’s major green investment in East Anglia Three. Plus Ørsted’s strategic changes and Germany’s initiative to reduce dependency on Chinese permanent magnets.

Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard’s StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes’ YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us!

Good day, this is your friend with a look at the winds of change sweeping across our world. From the waters around Australia to the boardrooms of Europe, the clean energy revolution is picking up speed. These aren’t just stories about wind turbines and power cables. They’re stories about nations and companies making billion dollar bets on a cleaner tomorrow.

There’s good news from Down Under today. Australia and Tasmania are officially connecting their power grids with a massive underwater cable project called the Marinus Link.

The project just got final approval from shareholders including the Commonwealth of Australia, the State of Tasmania, and the State of Victoria. Construction begins in twenty twenty six, with completion set for twenty thirty.

This isn’t just any cable. When finished, it will help deliver clean renewable energy from Tasmania to millions of homes on the mainland. The project promises to reduce electricity prices for consumers across the region.

Stephanie McGregor, the project’s chief executive, says this will change the course of a nation. She’s right. When you connect clean energy sources across vast distances, everyone wins.

The Marinus Link will cement Australia’s position as a leader in the global energy transition. But this is just the beginning of our story from the land Down Under.

Here’s a story about big money backing clean energy. Spanish renewable developer Acciona is moving forward with a nine hundred ninety million dollar wind and battery project in central Victoria, Australia.

The Tall Tree project will include fifty three wind turbines and a massive battery storage system. Construction starts in twenty twenty seven, with operations beginning in twenty twenty nine.

But here’s what makes this special. The project has been carefully designed to protect local wildlife. Acciona surveyed eighty two threatened plant species and fifty six animal species near the site. They’ve already reduced the project footprint by more than twenty four square kilometers to protect high value vegetation areas.

This massive investment will create construction jobs and long term maintenance positions in the region. It will also provide clean electricity to power hundreds of thousands of homes while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

When companies invest nearly a billion dollars in clean energy, they’re betting on a cleaner future. And Australia isn’t the only place where that smart money is flowing.

The Bank of Ireland is making headlines today with its largest green investment ever. The bank has committed eighty million pounds to East Anglia Three, an offshore wind farm that will become the world’s second largest when it begins operating next year.

Located seventy miles off England’s east coast, East Anglia Three will generate enough clean electricity to power more than one point three million homes.

John Feeney, chief executive of the bank’s corporate division, calls this exactly the kind of transformative investment that drives innovation and accelerates the energy transition.

This follows the bank’s earlier ninety eight million pound commitment to Inch Cape wind farm off Scotland’s coast. The Bank of Ireland has set a target of thirty billion euros in sustainability related lending by twenty thirty. They’ve already reached fifteen billion in the first quarter of this year.

When major financial institutions back clean energy this aggressively, they’re signaling where the smart money is going. But what happens when even the biggest players need to adjust their sails?

Denmark’s Orsted is recalibrating its strategy amid changing market conditions. The company is considering raising up to five billion euros to strengthen its financial position while scaling back some expansion plans.

Orsted has reduced its twenty thirty installation targets from fifty gigawatts to between thirty five to thirty eight gigawatts. But don’t mistake this for retreat. The company is focusing on high margin, high quality projects while maintaining its leadership in offshore wind.

The company’s Revolution Wind project in Rhode Island and Sunrise Wind in New York remain on track for completion in twenty twenty six and twenty twenty seven. These projects will deliver clean electricity to millions of Americans.

CEO Rasmus Errboe is implementing aggressive cost cutting measures, including reducing fixed costs by one billion Danish kroner by twenty twenty six. The company plans to divest one hundred fifteen billion kroner worth of assets to free capital for core projects.

Sometimes the smartest strategy is knowing when to consolidate and focus on what you do best. For Orsted, that’s building the world’s most efficient offshore wind farms. And speaking of strategic thinking, Europe is planning ahead for energy independence.

Germany is leading a European push to reduce dependence on Chinese permanent magnets. The German wind industry has proposed that Europe source thirty percent of its permanent magnets from non Chinese suppliers by twenty thirty, rising to fifty percent by twenty thirty five.

Currently, more than ninety percent of these vital rare earth magnets come from China. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy is backing this diversification effort, working with industry associations to identify alternative suppliers.

The roadmap calls for turbine manufacturers to establish contacts with new suppliers by mid twenty twenty five, with production facilities potentially operational by twenty twenty nine.

Karina Wurtz, Managing Director of the Offshore Wind Energy Foundation, calls this a strong signal toward a new industrial policy that addresses geopolitical risks.

This isn’t just about reducing dependence on one country. It’s about building resilient supply chains that ensure the continued growth of clean energy. When an industry plans this thoughtfully for its future, that future looks very bright indeed.

You see, the news stories this week tell us something important. From Australia’s underwater cables to Germany’s supply chain strategy, the world is building the infrastructure for a clean energy future. Billions of dollars are flowing toward wind power. Major banks are making their largest green investments ever. Even when companies face challenges, they’re doubling down on what works.

The wind energy industry isn’t just growing. It’s maturing. It’s getting smarter about where to invest and how to build sustainably. And that means the winds of change aren’t just blowing… they’re here to stay.

And now you know… the rest of the story.

https://weatherguardwind.com/marinus-link-orsted/

Renewable Energy

Joint Statement from ACP, ACORE, and AEU on DOE Grid Reliability and Security Protocol Rehearing Request

Published

3 days ago

August 8, 2025

Alice Rush

Grid Infrastructure
Policy
Press Releases

Joint Statement from ACP, ACORE, and AEU on DOE Grid Reliability and Security Protocol Rehearing Request

August 6, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 6, 2025 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP), American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), and Advanced Energy United, released the following statement after submitting a joint rehearing request to urge the Department of Energy (DOE) to reevaluate their recent protocol issued with the stated goal of identifying risk in grid reliability and security:

“As demand for energy surges, grid reliability must rely on sound modeling, reasonable forecasts, and unbiased analysis of all technologies. Instead, DOE’s protocol relies on inaccurate and inconsistent assumptions that undercut the credibility of certain technologies in favor of others.

“Americans deserve to have confidence that the government is taking advantage of ready-to-deploy and affordable resources to support communities across the country. Clean energy technologies are the fastest growing sources of American-made energy that are ready to keep prices down and meet demand.

“Providing a roadmap that offers a clear-eyed view of risk is critical to meeting soaring demand across the country. The Department of Energy report missed the opportunity to present all the viable types of energy needed to address reliability and keep energy affordable. We urge DOE to reevaluate and enable those charged with securing and future-proofing our grid to meet the moment with every available resource.”

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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 Joint Statement from ACP, ACORE, and AEU on DOE Grid Reliability and Security Protocol Rehearing Request appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/joint-statement-from-acp-acore-and-aeu-on-doe-grid-reliability-and-security-protocol-rehearing-request/

Renewable Energy

5 Ways To Finance Your Solar Panels In Australia

Published

4 days ago

August 8, 2025

Alice Rush

While it’s widely known that solar power can dramatically cut your long-term electricity costs, the initial investment in a home solar panel system can be a major barrier for Australians.

A high-quality residential system, such as a 6.6kW setup, can easily exceed $6,000, and for most households, that’s not spare change.

However, luckily, in Australia, there’s a smart way to bridge this financial gap. That’s by choosing solar financing options!

Unlike traditional forms of debt, solar financing can actually pay for itself over time, making the installation process easy and affordable for all groups of people.

Moreover, by structuring the system properly, a well-sized and efficient solar system can generate significant savings on your energy bill. But not all financing options are created equal.

The difference between a solar system that boosts your savings and one that drains your wallet often comes down to the financing terms you choose.

Therefore, at Cyanergy, we’re here to walk you through 5 of the most effective ways to finance your solar panels in Australia. This will help you take control of your energy future, without creating any financial stress.

In this blog post:

How Much Does a Fully Installed Solar System Cost in Australia?

In Australia, the cost of a fully installed residential solar system in 2025 generally ranges between $3,500 and $10,000, depending on system size, component quality, and your geographical location.

However, on average, the cost is $10,000, and people paid from $7,000 to $20,000 for their 10 kW systems.

So, what causes the price differentiation of solar panels?

The quality of panels and inverter brands, such as SunPower, Q Cells, or Fronius, may come at a higher cost.
Installer rates and reputation matter for cost variation.
Location is a factor, as urban areas often get more competitive quotes than regional or remote areas.
The type of roof and its installation complexity may increase the cost.
Optional battery storage adds $7,000–$15,000, depending on capacity.

5 Common Methods For Solar Financing for Australians in 2025

Solar panel financing helps homeowners get the benefits of solar without paying the full cost up front. Instead, you pay in installments through loans, leases, or other payment plans, making solar more affordable over time.

Don’t worry! It’s not just another debt; it’s a smart way to take control of your energy bills because a well-financed solar system can save you more money than the amount you spend on the investment.

So, when you want lower power bills and enjoy more energy independence, going solar makes sense.

But as soon as you start looking into the numbers, it can feel overwhelming. A quality solar system isn’t cheap. And for many Aussie families, it’s a big financial decision.

Then come all the financial terms, such as zero-interest, buy now, pay later (BNPL), green loans, and solar leasing, which also leave residents even more perplexed.

Find them confusing, too?

So, let’s break down 5 ways to finance your solar panels in Australia to help you make the smartest, stress-free decision for your home and your wallet.

1. Cash Payment

Investing in a solar power system can be highly profitable if you are debt-free and have available cash. Solar systems offer tax-free returns that surpass the current interest rates offered by banks or the government.

For those who consume a significant amount of electricity during the day, a 6.6kW system costs $6,500. Typically, it recoups its cost within approximately five years, resulting in a 12% annual return.

Even if you are away during the day, the returns may not be as impressive, but still exceed bank interest rates.

Cash option is the Best For:

Homeowners with upfront capital.

Those who are cash-rich and debt-free.

Residents seeking maximum long-term savings.

Investors who are interested in a higher return on interest ROI with minimal risk.

How It Works:

Paying for your solar system outright is the simplest and often most cost-effective way to finance your panels. Here, you pay the full amount upfront, and from that point onward, all the energy savings go directly into your pocket.

Pros of Cash Payment Method:

No interest or monthly repayment hassles.

Full ownership from day one of panel installation.

Maximizes return on investment.

Eligible for federal and state incentives.

Cons of Cash Payment Method:

High upfront cost of $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on solar panel size and battery storage capacity.

2. Green Loans and Solar Loans

Green loans are personal loans offered by financial institutions that prioritize environmental and community support. They come with low-interest rates and are ideal for financing solar panels, energy-efficient windows, heat pumps, and air conditioning.

These loans have flexible repayment periods ranging from 1 to 7 years and typically involve minimal setup fees, low ongoing fees, and no early repayment penalties.

These loans are suitable for:

Homeowners who want ownership but prefer not to pay up front.

Borrowers with good credit history.

How It Works:

Many Australian banks and credit unions offer green loans specifically for energy-efficient home upgrades, including solar systems.

For example, if you borrow $5,000 over five years at a 5% interest rate, your monthly repayments would be around $94. Your electricity bill may be reduced by $100 or more monthly, potentially offsetting the cost entirely.

Pros of Green Loans & Solar Loans:

Lower interest rates than personal loans.

Flexible repayment terms of typically 1–7 years.

Allows you to own the system.

It can be used for batteries and other energy upgrades.

Cons of Green Loans & Solar Loans:

Requires a good credit rating.

Still involves debt and interest, even though the rate is relatively low.

3. Solar Leasing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

System of Solar Leasing in Australia

Solar leasing is a payment plan where residential and commercial customers in Australia make monthly payments to a solar supplier for a solar PV system installed on their property.

Under a solar leasing plan, the system is leased directly from the solar company, and the customer repays the system’s cost over a period of five to ten years. However, interest is charged during the repayment period.

This results in a slightly higher overall cost compared to the upfront payment.

How Does Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Work?

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financing option where a company owns and maintains a solar system installed on a homeowner’s property. The homeowner only purchases the energy generated by the system.

PPAs are gaining popularity due to their low, upfront costs, with homeowners paying a predetermined rate based on the solar energy generated on their property.

The rates are typically fixed for the duration of the agreement, which can range from 15 to 20 years.

Works Best For:

Households without upfront capital.

Those who want to avoid maintenance responsibility.

Renters or tenants.

Pros of Solar Leasing and PPA:

Little to no upfront cost.

Lower energy bills from day one.

The provider covers all the maintenance and repairs.

Cons of Solar Leasing and PPA:

You don’t own the system.

Long-term contract commitments

Lower total savings compared to owning.

4. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) for Solar

BNPL options enable you to spread your solar panel payments over time without incurring interest, typically over 6 to 60 months.

With some companies, you can get up to $30,000 for solar or battery storage systems, with repayment plans ranging from 6 months to 5 years.

How BNPL Works?

Here, the customer chooses a solar system. Then, the BNPL provider pays the solar company upfront. The customer then repays the BNPL provider in installments.

However, ensure you understand the repayment terms thoroughly. Some BNPL offers can become costly if you miss payments or don’t clear the balance within the interest-free period.

Perfect Options for:

Budget-conscious homeowners.

People looking for short-term finance without interest.

Pros of BNPL:

Interest-free periods depending on conditions.

Quick approval and no deposit are required.

Can bundle solar with other cheaper home battery programs.

Cons of BNPL:

Admin fees, late payment or other additional hidden fees may apply.

After the interest-free period, higher rates may kick in.

Limited availability in some regions.

5. Government Rebates, Incentives, and Feed-In Tariffs

The Australian Government offers a range of financial incentives that can significantly reduce the cost of going solar. These financing methods reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, making solar energy more affordable.

Best For:

All homeowners and small businesses

Some of the Best Rebates and Incentives for Solar Energy in Australia

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

This federal scheme provides STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates), which are essentially rebates applied at the point of sale. Most installers factor this into their quote. Depending on your location and system size, STCs can save you $2,000 to $4,000 upfront.

State-Based Rebates and Incentives

Several states offer additional rebates or loans to their residents. For example:

Victoria: Solar Homes Program offers rebates of up to $1,400, plus interest-free loans.

New South Wales: Solar for Low Income Households trial and interest-free loans.

South Australia: Subsidies for battery storage via the Home Battery Scheme

ACT: Interest-free loans through the Sustainable Household Energy Saving Scheme.

Feed-In Tariffs (FiTs)

When your solar system produces more electricity than you use, the excess is fed back into the grid. Your electricity retailer pays you a feed-in tariff, typically 5- 15c per kWh. These ongoing savings can help you repay your loan or lease more quickly.

Pros of Solar Rebates:

Reduces the initial cost of installing a solar panel.

Long-term energy bill savings.

Incentives are available to most Australians.

Cons of rebates and incentives:

Government policies and rates can change.

FiTs vary greatly by retailer and location.

Differences Between Solar Financing Options

Solar Leasing VS Buying: Which is more beneficial for you?

Well, both leasing and buying solar panels allow homeowners to benefit from utility savings and reduce their environmental impact. However, deciding between leasing and owning solar panels is a crucial consideration, and it depends on your specific situation.

For instance, leasing solar panels provides a more accessible option for customers who may not have the necessary upfront funds to purchase them.

The homeowner does not own the panels through leasing, as a third party owns them. That means the leasing company owns the equipment.

On the other hand, purchasing solar panels requires an upfront investment. Additional credits or reimbursements may be available based on state or manufacturer incentives at the time of purchase.

However, you can also seek free quotes from Cyanergy for accurate pricing information.

Which Option is Right for You?

Choosing an appropriate financing method can save you thousands of dollars annually on your energy bills. The choice ultimately depends on your financial position, property ownership status, and long-term goals.

So, here we’ve done a quick comparison of different types of financing options to make your selection process easier:

Financing Option	Upfront Cost	Ownership	Monthly Repayments	Long-Term Repayments	Potential Risk Level
Cash Payment	High	Yes	None	Highest	Low
Green/Solar Loan	Low to Medium	Yes	Yes	High	Medium
Solar Lease & PPA	Low	No	Yes	Medium	Medium
BNPL	Low	Yes	Yes	Medium to High	Medium
Government Incentives & FiTs	Not Required	Yes	No	High	Low

Wrap Up

Over the decades, people have been using solar power to illuminate their homes, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and shielding themselves from rising electricity prices.

Even though solar power ensures your energy freedom and lowers your energy bills, the way you pay for it matters a lot.

Remember, selecting a specific finance option can make solar an affordable and worthwhile investment, but choosing the wrong one can turn savings into more stress.

So here’s what you can do next!

Review your budget and power bills. Determine whether you can pay cash or require a loan. Avoid rushing into lucrative but deceptive offers. Always compare full quotes with repayment details before agreeing to anything.

Ready to make the switch?

Contact Cyangery today and begin your journey with Solar Energy. We are here to find you the best deals on solar packages in Australia.