Published

6 months ago

June 13, 2025

Alice Rush

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which panels perform best in Australia’s diverse climate?

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

And most importantly, are they really worth the cost?

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

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

So, tag along to learn more details!

In this blog post:

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

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

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

How Solar Panels Work: A Simple Breakdown!

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

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

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

Are They Worth It for Australians?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Premium Efficiency and Longevity

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

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

What are the Pros?

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

Sleek, modern look.

Lower long-term cost per watt.

Best for homeowners with limited roof space.

Incredible longevity and efficiency.

Talking about Cons:

Monocrystalline panels are expensive.

The manufacturing process results in silicon waste.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Reliable and Cost-Effective

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

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

What are the Pros?

More affordable than Monocrystalline panels.

Leaves less waste during production.

Offer decent performance for residential use.

Easier manufacturing process.

Talking about Cons:

Less efficient.

Require more space than Monocrystalline panels.

Lower the aesthetic appeal of homes.

Thin-Film Solar Panels: Lightweight and Versatile

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

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

The types include:

Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) Panels

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

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

Amorphous Silicon (A-Si) Panels

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

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

Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Panels

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

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

Bifacial Solar Panel: Power from Every Angle!

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

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

Concentrated PV Cell (CVP)

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

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

Solar Panel Types by Efficiency and Longevity: A Detailed Comparison

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

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

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

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

1. Sun Exposure and Roof Orientation

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

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

2. Solar Panel Efficiency

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

3. Durability and Warranty

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

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

4. Installer Credentials

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

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

5. Proper Installation and Aftercare

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

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

Some Other Hidden Factors That Might Impact Your Solar Setup!

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

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

This includes:

Hail Rating of the Panel

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

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

Temperature Tolerance of the Panel

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

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

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

Fire Rating of the Solar Panel

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

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

Light-Induced Degradation (LID)

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

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

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

How to Choose the Right Solar Panels for Your Property?

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

Step 1: Assess Your Energy Needs

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

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

Step 2: Evaluate Roof Size and Position

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

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

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

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

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

Step 3: Set a Budget

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

For 6.6 kW System:

Original Price starts from $3,690.00

Cyanergy’s VIC Offer Price starts from $890.00

For 10.12kW System

Original Price starts from $5,770.00

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

For 13kW System

Original Price starts from $7,130.00

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

Step 4: Find a Trustworthy Installer & Factor in Rebates

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

So, Which Solar Panel Type Should You Use?

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

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

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

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

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

SunPower

Efficiency: Up to 22.8%

Warranty: 40 years (industry-best!)

Why Choose: Premium performance and extreme durability

REC Solar

Efficiency: Up to 21.9%

Warranty: 25 years

Why Choose: Excellent value for performance, strong Australian support

Q CELLS

Efficiency: Up to 21.4%

Warranty: 25 years

Why Choose: Robust tech with good performance in varying light conditions

Jinko Solar

Efficiency: Up to 21%

Warranty: 25 years

Why Choose: Jinko’s solar panels are affordable and widely used across Aussie homes

LONGi Solar

Efficiency: 20%

Warranty: 25 years

Why Choose: Solid mid-range performer, good balance of cost and quality

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

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

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

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

Ultimate Guide To Understanding Every Type Of Solar Panel

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

19 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.