General Info
How do solar panels work?
Solar panels absorb the sun’s energy and convert it to direct current (DC) electricity. This DC current is then passed through a solar panel inverter to transform it to alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the type of electricity that most homes and businesses are able to use. The excess you don’t consume is typically able to be sent back to the grid.
What are the different types of solar panels?
Whilst every solar panel brand and product has unique specifications, Cardinal Solar uses products which are tier 1, high efficiency solar modules.
How long do solar panels last?
Typically, solar panels are incredibly durable products with a life expectancy of at least 25 years. The products we select at Cardinal Solar are known for their durability and ability to withstand the harshest of Australia’s weather conditions. This is what makes them such a great investment.
Do solar panels work when it’s cloudy/at night?
The power produced by solar panels is dependent on sunlight. This means that when the weather is cloudy your system may produce slightly less energy. However, due to high electricity costs and the added incentive of rebates, solar still works out as very worth it — even if you live in a more cloudy environment.
At nightime, there will be nil energy production but you can borrow back from the grid, if need be.
Do solar panels work in a blackout?
Should it be connected to the grid (which is usually the case in most urban and suburban settings) your solar panel system will shut off in the event of the blackout. This is to ensure that emergency workers and repair people aren’t injured from your panels sending power back to the grid in the course of their duties.
There are certain solar panel inverters that can be purchased that, when paired with a solar battery, can provide backup power in the event of a blackout.
Do I need to install solar batteries with my solar power system?
Solar panel systems that include solar batteries, known as solar-plus-storage, are increasingly popular. However, they can be priced. Fortunately, batteries are not necessary for most solar homeowners.
If you are connected to the grid, your system does not need a battery. Excess power goes back into the grid and you can draw back should you ever need more electricity than your panels are able to generate.
At this stage, Cardinal Solar recommends exhausting your roof with solar to make use of rebates available. We focus on future-proofing your system for emerging technologies which are power thirsty. In the future, battery technology will become more reliable and cost-effective.
What solar energy rebate and incentives are available?
Throughout Australia there are many different types of rebates. In Queensland, your solar panel rebate comes in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates, otherwise referred to as STCs. These are financial incentives that vary according to factors such as the size of your solar panel system and your location.
Should I ask for a solar monitoring system with my solar panels?
If you are interested in receiving detailed information about how much energy your solar panel system is producing, ask us about solar monitoring system options. Cardinal Solar uses inverters that include free programs to track system performance.
