Published

2 months ago

July 1, 2025

Alice Rush

Installing a solar panel system can be a significant investment. A solar panel system can cost Australian homeowners around $5,000 to $14,000. Government and state rebates and incentive programs can help reduce this cost.

But homeowners still pay a substantial amount to enjoy lower electricity bills. Fortunately, there are various options available to make solar energy more affordable.

Knowing about all types of solar panels will give you the freedom to choose from a variety of options.

Solar panel solutions fit every budget, from cost-effective polycrystalline panels to premium and elegant monocrystalline cells.

Here is the ultimate guide to all types of solar panels in Australia, helping you find the most suitable panels for your home and financial needs.

In this blog post:

What Are Solar Panels?

Solar panels are devices that capture and convert sunlight into usable electricity. They use two semi-conductive materials. Usually, silicon is sandwiched between a metal or glass.

As sunlight passes through the semiconductive material, electrons get dislodged from the atoms. And it results in a small electrical current. The current is captured and used to power your home or stored in a solar battery. This process is also known as the photovoltaic effect.

Looking Back on Solar Panels

The history of solar panels dates back to 1839, when French scientist Edmond Becquerel first observed the photovoltaic effect. In 1883, Charles Fritts developed the first solar cell, leading to further experimentation with solar-capturing technology by scientists worldwide.

The breakthrough came in the 1950s when Bell Labs discovered silicon was a far more efficient semiconductor than the previously common selenium used in solar panels. Since then, solar panels have undergone continuous improvements with remarkable innovations.

What Are The Main Types of Solar Panels?

Solar panel technology has seen many advancements. And now it’s available for all average Australian households. Nowadays, a wide range of more budget-friendly panels are available. Let’s get to know all of them today!

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar cells are also known as modules. These represent the top tier in solar technology. They are made from a single sheet of monocrystalline silicon crystal using an expensive manufacturing process.

These panels are created from a single bar of pure silicon, then cut and shaped into 32 to 96 silicon wafers. And these wafers are solar panels. However, due to the cutting process, a massive amount of silicon is wasted. And it makes production costly but efficient.

Monocrystalline panels are black. These panels are highly efficient, have higher wattage, longer lifespan, and are the most expensive option. They can capture about 19% to 22% of incoming photons.

There are various options among monocrystalline panels, including Passivated Emitter/Rear Cell (PERC) panels, Heterojunction Solar Cells, and Bifacial Panels.

Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell Panels

PERC panels represent an improvement over standard monocrystalline panel technology. They add a layer of reflective material to the back of the panel, which allows the silicon to capture more photons.

This design has various minor benefits. They reduce electron recombination and heat. PERC cells are slightly more efficient and have a longer lifespan. These panels absorb around 21% to 23% of incoming photons.

Heterojunction Solar Cells

Heterojunction cells combine two solar panel technologies to increase efficiency. These panels add a layer of amorphous silicon that absorbs more wave frequency and complements the crystalline silicon to boost efficiency.

However, these cells require unique manufacturing and are considerably expensive. Nevertheless, the extra cost comes with a significant efficiency boost, as they absorb between 23% to 26% of incoming photons.

Bifacial Panels

Bifacial panels are more efficient than standard monocrystalline panels but require more effort. They have two solar-absorbing faces. The second face is positioned at the back of the panel to absorb reflected light. Otherwise, that would be wasted.

However, they are not suitable for flat surfaces, such as roofs. Homeowners can install these panels on a section of their property, typically on the ground. When used properly, these panels can achieve an efficiency of up to 27%.

The most efficient bifacial panels are made from monocrystalline materials. However, polycrystalline bifacial panels are also available in the solar market.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline solar cells, also known as multicrystalline panels, offer a more budget-friendly approach.

These solar cells are created from multiple shards of silicon fragments that are melted down and poured into small square wafer moulds. The panels are dark blue, speckled in colour.

Polycrystalline panels have a lower price tag because the production process creates less silicon waste. Consequently, it makes them more accessible and cheaper to manufacture.

However, these silicon solar cells have a shorter lifespan and lower heat tolerance. They also have a lower efficiency rating. These can capture only between 13% and 17% of photons.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar cells are an umbrella term encompassing several types of solar panels. These panels are typically thin, flexible, affordable, and commonly used in industrial or commercial applications.

Some homes may also use thin-film solar panels on their roofs if they have unusual shapes or cannot support the weight of standard panels. Thin-film solar panels typically have an energy efficiency rating of 7% to 18%. However, it depends on the specific type.

Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Panels

Cadmium telluride is the most common thin-film panel on the market, accounting for approximately 5% of the global solar panel market. These panels can achieve an efficiency rating of 9% to 15%.

They are made from cheaper materials such as cadmium telluride, cadmium sulphide, or magnesium sulphide. Unfortunately, these low-cost materials are also toxic and can harm the environment and human health.

Amorphous Silicon (A-Si) Panels

Amorphous silicon panels utilise a technology similar to that of standard silicon panels, but with greater flexibility. Instead of using crystalline silicon wafers, these panels use a thin silicon strip with a texture resembling rubber.

These are incredibly lightweight, versatile, non-toxic, and cheap, but have low efficiency. These panels typically have an 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 top of a base of steel, glass, plastic, and other materials.

They can be installed where standard panels cannot fit. CIGS panels are also used in solar shingles and similar rooftop solar technologies. They have an efficiency rating of 12% to 15%. Ideal lab conditions can be as high as 20%.

Which solar panels are considered the best?

Monocrystalline solar panels are more popular for rooftop solar installations due to their higher efficiency than polycrystalline or thin-film solar panels. However, some buyers may need clarification about their increased costs.

Selecting the best panel type for your home primarily depends on personal preferences, particularly in terms of visual aesthetics. Some may prefer sleek, uniformly coloured panels, while others may opt for colourful, patchy panels with smaller gaps between cells.

Different Types of Solar Panel Efficiency Ratings

Crystalline solar panels stand out as the most efficient among all panel types.

Monocrystalline panels boast an efficiency rating of over 20%.

PERC panels achieve an extra 5% efficiency due to their passivation layer.

Polycrystalline panels typically have an efficiency range of 15% to 17%.

On the other hand, thin-film panels usually exhibit 2% to 3% lower efficiency than crystalline silicon. On average:

CIGS panels have an efficiency range of 13% to 15%.

CdTe falls between 9% and 11%.

A-Si has an efficiency range of 6% to 8%.

The capacity of Different Solar Panels

Monocrystalline cells offer the highest energy capacity because of their single-crystal form. This form enables a higher output rating in a smaller size. Most monocrystalline panels can generate up to 300 watts of power capacity.

Recent advancements in solar technology have allowed polycrystalline panels to narrow the gap. A standard 60-cell polycrystalline panel can now produce between 240 and 300 watts of power.

Due to their uneven sizes, thin-film panels still require a standardised measure of power capacity. The efficiency of one thin-film panel may differ from that of another based on its physical size.

How to Select the Right Solar Panel for Your Home?

Selecting the best solar panel for your home can seem overwhelming. However, here are some tips and tricks you can follow when choosing the types of solar panels:

Efficiency: Look for solar panels with higher efficiency ratings as they generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. Understand the different types of solar cells and their efficiency levels.

Cost: Consider your budget while choosing solar panels, but remember that a higher upfront cost may result in more significant long-term energy bill savings. Polycrystalline panels offer a more budget-friendly option for cost-conscious buyers than monocrystalline panels.

Warranty: Ensure the solar panel has a reliable warranty, ideally at least 25 years, to cover any potential defects or malfunctions.

Durability: Select panels that can withstand harsh weather conditions, including hail, wind, and snow. Solar panels with tempered glass and aluminium frames are more durable than those with plastic components.

Certification: Look for installers and sellers certified by recognised authorities, such as the Clean Energy Council (CEC), to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.

Seek Professional Advice: Research thoroughly and consult Cyanergy. We are a certified solar panel installer. With the guidance of many solar experts, we can help you save money and effectively reduce your carbon footprint. Get a free solar quote now!

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the most suitable solar panel type for your home, ensuring optimal energy generation and long-term sustainability.

What Are The Best Solar Panel Brands In Australia?

When considering solar panel brands, you might think of the concept of “tiers.” Tier 1 represents the highest-rated panels, and Tier 3 indicates low-quality products.

There is no universal ranking system. Various organisations, like financial analysis firms, independently rank solar panel brands.

Examining the source that claims to offer “tier 1” panels is essential because these organisations often have similar assessments.

The tier system generally reflects the investment potential of a solar panel brand rather than the actual quality of its panels.

The rankings take into consideration factors such as the company’s involvement in large-scale projects, manufacturing capacity, research, and development.

Here are some commonly featured Tier-1 solar panel brands in Australia:

Canadian Solar

Jinko

LONGi

QCells

REC Group

Sunpower

Trina Solar

Contact Cyanergy to explore our affordable solar packages and discover our selection of Tier-1 solar panels.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Ultimate Guide On All Types of Solar Panels In Australia appeared first on Cyanergy.

Ultimate Guide On All Types of Solar Panels In Australia

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

4 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

August 15, 2025

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

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

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

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

###

ABOUT ACORE

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

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

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

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

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

4 days ago

August 15, 2025

Alice Rush

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this blog post:

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Energy Independence

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

Maximized Savings

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

Better Return on Investment ROI

Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates?

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

Lower Carbon Footprint

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

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

Peace of Mind

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

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

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

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

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

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

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

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

Your Daily Energy Usage

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

Your Solar System Output

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

Your Nighttime Power Usage

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

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

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

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

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

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

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

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

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

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

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

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

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage.

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

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

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

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage

Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining.

You don’t have to care about power outages anymore

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

Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak

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

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

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system:

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

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

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Takeaway Thoughts

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

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

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

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

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

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

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

5 days ago

August 14, 2025

Alice Rush

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

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