Energy saving in Summer

6,349 (18.5% of) Georges River homes now have solar.

These residents are doing their bit for the environment, saving 3 tonnes of Co2-e on average per family each year. They’re also reaping the financial benefit, The NSW State Governments ‘Energy Saver” program calculates the average Sydney household with a 4kW solar system installed on their roof can save up to $900 a year, paying itself off in less than 5 years.

With the cost of solar becoming more affordable and electricity bills on the rise, now is the time to consider solar.

If you would like to do your bit for the environment and start reaping the financial benefits of installing solar, here are some solar facts to get you started.

• It is important to use a Clean Energy Council

Accredited Installer to install your system. The

Clean Energy Council is the peak body for the clean energy industry in Australia and manages the accreditation process for Australian installers.

You can use their website to find local installers, consider seeking 3 quotes to compare quality and value. • The efficiency of solar panels has improved dramatically in the last 10 years, you may not need as many panels and they no longer all need to all face north. • Your solar system should be sized specifically to your household’s energy usage. When seeking a quote ask the installer how they calculated the system size. • The solar installer should come and view your home before you accept a quote, this is so they can confirm if any additional costs are expected, before you commit. • If you install solar, you’re eligible for a

Government rebate called “small scale technology certificates”. Your retailer will manage these for you and the quote provided will most likely already include the saving. • In most cases installing solar is an exempt development and doesn’t require a Development

Application with Council, unless you live in a heritage home. Your installer should tell you if a development application is required.

A solar for low-income households offer is available for the Georges River area. If you’re a pensioner, you may be eligible for a free 3 kW solar system. Review the NSW Government ‘Energy Saver’ website for more information.

There are many easy and cheap ways for you to keep your home cool in summer, reducing your reliance on the air conditioner:

• If there is a breeze, open windows on opposite sides of the house. Cool breezes work best in narrow or open plan layouts. • Consider window awnings, shutters, pergolas or even planting a few trees, as shading can block up to 90% of the heat from direct sunlight. • Insulation is critical to passive cooling, you could consider adding additional insulation to your home. • In Sydney air conditioning use can be reduced by up to 75% with ceiling fans • Keep internal doors shut and only cool the room/s you are using. • Set your air-conditioner to the warmest setting that still achieves comfort – each degree cooler will increase your energy needs by 10%. In general, summer temperatures should be set between 25°C and 27°C.

If possible consider solar for you home.