Published

2 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

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

5 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

5 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

6 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.