Solar PV cells are the latest panels that use a natural resource to create power. The Photovoltaic (PV) cells are installed on your roof and use energy from the sun to create electricity. This electricity can run both appliances and provide lighting for your home.

The solar powered cells are one or two layers of semi-conducting material (in most cases it is silicon), which then uses the light to create an electric field across the layers, causing the electricity to flow. The PV cells do not need direct sunlight, but the greater light intensity the greater electricity flow.

Costs-
Prices of solar panels systems will vary considerably depending on the type and size of system you wish to have installed. The structure of your home will also have an impact on the price range.

As a rough guide, a typical PV system will cost somewhere between $5,000 to $20,000, most average systems being around 1.2 and 3kWp. Payback periods can be lengthy but the major benefit of having this system is that they don’t generate any greenhouse gas to create electricity and save about 455kg of carbon dioxide emissions per kWp per year.

Grants-
Currently you can get grants of up to $8,000 for 1kW or greater solar PV cells to be installed. Each grant will be subject to a household annual income of $100,000 and will differ from home to home.

Savings-
The savings will differ depending on the level of on site consumption and/or value of export tariff.

Maintenance-
Cells connected to the grid will require little maintenance but will still need regular checks by a qualified professional to ensure the wiring and components are working to their full potential. Stand-alone systems will need less maintenance on other components such as batteries.

Who is it for?
You can get a PV system generally if you have a sturdy north facing roof with no trees or building that would overshadow it or if the roof surface has shade for parts of the day. The roof must also be strong enough to hold the heavy PV systems.

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