Published

1 year ago

April 30, 2024

Alice Rush

Launching a New Solar Venture in the Georgia Mountains

Is there really such a thing as infinite energy? Well, not exactly, but with the sun expected to shine for the next five billion years, it’s safe to say that Olivia Amyette has placed a good bet on clean solar power playing a starring role in the energy mix for the foreseeable future.

Olivia is the founder and owner of Infinite Energy Advisors, a new Cleveland, Georgia-based solar company focusing on solar installation. Olivia’s family story and experience entering the solar industry sharpened her focus on the need for more equity and inclusion in the solar workforce, and she hopes this will be the first of a network of centers that will help develop a diverse and qualified workforce to help Georgia meet its largely untapped potential for rooftop solar while lowering reliance on fossil fuels one building at a time.

Olivia’s business has two components: Infinite Energy Advisors and the Solar Knowledge Institute. Infinite Energy Advisors is a “one stop solar shop” that provides design, installation, and related services to solar customers. The new facility will also host the first on-site comprehensive training center in the Solar Knowledge Institute (SKI), which aims to expand solar workforce options for the next generation.

Olivia cuts the ribbon at Infinite Energy Advisors in Cleveland, Georgia.

A Focus on Family

Olivia’s family and heritage have shaped her entry into the solar sector. Olivia’s maternal grandparents are from Vietnam and Ecuador, and both came to the United States speaking no English. Her mother was born in Vietnam, but raised in Georgia, where Olivia’s dad is from. When she graduated from Georgia Tech, Olivia had several good job offers to choose from that would have taken her far from home, but she made up her mind instead to pursue a career that would allow her to put her family first.

My grandfather was my best friend and the smartest person I knew. He was an immigrant from Ecuador and he did everything. I decided that it would be better to find a career path where I could stay home and take care of him for what would ultimately be his last moments with us. The solar industry has given me closure that I would not have had if I had pursued the other offers.

Olivia’s extended family and friends gather at the ribbon cutting. Left to right, sitting: Trong Valdivieso and Becky Tolson; standing: Jackie Tolson and Maria Valdivieso

Overcoming Barriers

As she became interested in the solar industry, Olivia noticed the lack of diversity that is common in the solar industry across the country and within Georgia. Nationwide, the solar industry is 69% male and 73% white, according to the Interstate Renewable Energy Council. An earlier report also identified gaps in pay and advancement for women and people of color. Olivia’s own experience as a young woman with Hispanic and Asian roots entering a predominantly white and male industry demonstrated the barriers that people of color and women face. She saw an urgent need to create a pathway for women and people from marginalized communities to enter the solar workforce.

Being a minority and a female, I got a lot of the experience upfront. Getting in on the industry is hard. People don’t want to tell you anything. People don’t want you to grow and be their competition. I even had someone in the industry say to me ‘I don’t want a girl coming in and messing things up.’ I looked around and tried to see who I could network with and learn how they overcame these kind of barriers, but I could not find another minority female. When I did find another Hispanic person in the industry, they weren’t getting paid well and were working crazy hours. People think they can get away with it when their employees are from the Hispanic community.

Olivia’s experience is not surprising given the historic trends in the building industry as a whole and the current demographics of the solar industry, but she is part of a growing cohort of women and minorities who are breaking into solar. Since 2015, the Georgia Solar Association has recognized and supported women in the solar industry in Georgia through their Women In Solar Energy (WISE) program, which recognized Jonelle Minefee of SolarTyme in 2021. Two of the three installers for the innovative Georgia BRIGHT solar leasing program, Better Tomorrow Solar and Smart Home Solutions, are also owned by women of color. While disparities persist, Olivia joins a growing cohort of women who are paving the way for a more equitable future in the solar industry.

Olivia hopes that SKI can play a role in developing a more welcoming path into the solar industry. SKI is in the process of establishing a solar apprenticeship program, which will be available at low or no cost to trainees. Through the apprenticeship program, Olivia intends to make good on what she calls the federal Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) “magnificent focus” on bringing benefits to disadvantaged communities. The IRA stipulated for the first time ever that for solar projects larger than one megawatt to receive the full 30% federal tax credit, installers must utilize apprentice labor and meet prevailing wage requirements.

A Perfect Fit in the North Georgia Mountains

Cleveland, Georgia and the surrounding White County is a small community on the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains. Just beyond the city of Cleveland, the main roads enter the twists and turns of the Chattahoochee National Forest, which holds the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. Cleveland is a rural community with an economy based mostly on agriculture, industrial manufacturing, and tourism. As a small town, Cleveland is just like any other community in wanting to provide its young people with the skills to thrive in a growing job industry. When Olivia, who grew up closer to Atlanta, began to look around for a location to open her first facility and pilot training center, she said she was attracted to Cleveland because of the local school district’s existing vocational training programs. “There was nothing like that where I went to school–I thought that kind of thing only existed on television!” said Olivia.

In fact, White County Schools have had a robust career technical training program for decades, which prepares students to work in the local industrial manufacturing, health, and construction sectors that make up an important part of the local economy. Combined with a warm welcome from the White County Chamber of Commerce, Olivia said her family has fallen in love with the community as she has prepared to open her facility.

“The Southern hospitality here is real,” she says, “We’ve had clients bake us cookies and welcome us inside.” She looks forward to continuing to grow her relationship with the school district and welcoming local students into her training program.

According to White County Chamber of Commerce President Beth Truelove, Infinite Energy Advisors was a perfect fit for the county as well. As she put it:

This is an exceptionally great fit for us because of where we are in relationship to the natural preservation that we already have through our forests, the way our agriculture industries protect the land, and the fact that we are at the head of the Chattahoochee River. To have this here is really symbolic. It’s just a big part of our culture here. The farmers really care for preserving our land. The way we preserve the forest, the water, and the land – and now we are just adding clean energy to it. This is a great marriage for us.

Olivia (L) talks with Beth Truelove (R) before the addressing the crowd.

The Deciding Factor

In the background of Olivia’s family life and the unique advantages of the local community, recent federal law has paved the way for Olivia to launch her solar business. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has super-charged the solar industry by creating, growing, and expanding tax credits and grant programs for solar energy. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the solar industry saw over $100 billion in new private sector investments in 2023, and SEIA expects to see more growth over the next decade that the tax incentives are in place.

If it wasn’t for the IRA, we wouldn’t be doing this training program at all. The demand for solar wouldn’t be there. The tax credits are the deciding factor for people who want to get solar. The IRA communicates to people that solar is for everyone.

Olivia also sees a unique opportunity within the IRA to focus on diversity in the solar workforce. Between the apprenticeship requirements and the Justice 40 initiative, which directs benefits of climate investments to disadvantaged communities, she says the IRA is providing an incentive to companies to focus on programs that benefit diverse and disadvantaged communities. Regardless of politics, she believes these incentives will help everyone see the advantage of the federal investments in the IRA.

Even companies that aren’t really intentional about inclusion, the IRA gives them a financial reason to care. As someone said to me, ‘You can be red or you can be blue, but we all know green.’

What’s Next?

Infinite Energy Advisors is already building relationships and gaining a foothold in Cleveland. The local manager of Georgia-based Zaxby’s restaurant attended the ribbon cutting for the new facility, since his restaurant will be catering the center’s training programs. Long-term Cleveland resident and master electrician Dirk Reaume was there as well, positioned between the mock rooftop, where trainees get experience installing solar panels, and the practice solar inverter. He has helped Infinite Energy Advisors incorporate solar and battery systems with customers who have whole-house generators. He is excited to be learning about a new industry, and says solar “just makes sense” to people.

Master Electrician Dirk Reaume attends the ribbon cutting event.

And, Cleveland is just the first stop for Olivia’s projects. She has already begun talks with a school in Gwinnett County, Georgia to bring their work study students for a shadowing experience, and she plans to design her training program to provide certification that will be useful for trainees across the nation. With SKI offering online portions of her program across many states, her intention is to help the industry grow with an empowered workforce, not just build out her own installation business. SKI’s training programs will include NABCEP certification and sales training, and she intends to partner with leading manufacturers to provide courses at a reduced cost or for free.

For minority communities, the number one barrier is access: money, transportation, cultural acceptance of the job. We want to be really intentional about having everyone welcome. When people graduate from the program, if someone asks them to have a certain certification, the likelihood that they will have it is good. That will empower people to have a choice of where to work.

Investments Sparking More Industry Growth

Infinite Energy Advisors’ new facility and ambitious plans are part of a broader trend that could transform solar in the South over the coming years. Beyond the tax incentives in the IRA, the Biden Administration announced $7 billion in Solar for All grants to 60 nonprofit organizations and state agencies across the nation on April 21. This program will bring over $150 million to Georgia for innovative programming aimed at making solar more accessible for low-income residents, with similar awards in Florida, the Carolinas, and Tennessee, and an additional regional award that will add even more funding.

Solar for All is a companion program for the new financing opportunities through the National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator, which together comprise the $27 billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. These programs are expected to slash climate emissions and save low-income Americans by lowering household energy costs, while creating access to capital for low-income communities to expand clean energy options and net zero building. Infinite Energy Advisors and the Solar Knowledge Institute are examples of the kind of innovative, community focused program that Americans can expect as a result of the combination of tax incentives and funding opportunities that make up the Inflation Reduction Act. Communities all around the Southeast, like Cleveland, can expect to see opportunities to lead in bringing clean energy and its benefits to their residents.

Olivia with Drew McCluskey of IronRidge, one of her manufacturing partners.

Join Olivia in Becoming a Member of the Clean Energy Generation

Olivia is one of over 700 people across the Southeast who have joined the Clean Energy Generation – a movement of people around the Southeast who are working on bringing clean energy to our homes and throughout our communities. From handing out flyers at a community event, to switching to electric vehicles for home and work, to starting a new solar training program in a rural community, our members are demonstrating how communities throughout the Southeast can get the full benefits of investments in climate and clean energy. Since launching the Clean Energy Generation, SACE has highlighted efforts large and small that our members are making toward clean energy in their homes and communities. Please let us know that you’re in, and sign up here to be part of our regular Clean Energy Generation email updates and monthly member meetings.

Join the Clean Energy Generation

The post Olivia Amyett: Solar with a Family Focus in Northeast Georgia appeared first on SACE | Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

Olivia Amyette: Solar with a Family Focus in Northeast Georgia

Renewable Energy

Marinus Link Approval, Ørsted Strategic Pivot

Published

18 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.”

###

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.