What is solar energy?

Solar energy is renewable energy generated by photovoltaic (PV) panels that convert sunlight into electricity. Solar panels installed on your roof can significantly reduce or eliminate your electricity bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

What are Tier 1 solar panels and how do I know which brands are good?

Solar panel manufacturers are ranked into three tiers. Tier 1 solar panels are produced by large, well-established manufacturers with strong reputations and proven track records.

Because these firms have generally been in the market for many years, you’re safer investing in their products compared to Tier 2 or Tier 3 brands.

MAC Trade Services only uses Tier 1 panels. When you get a quote, ask for proof of the Tier 1 status, either the criteria on which the installer is basing that claim or information about the manufacturer itself.

A trustworthy retailer will provide that information and help you make an informed choice.

What are Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)?

STCs are government incentives aimed at reducing the upfront cost of installing your solar system or other small-scale renewables under 100 kW.

These certificates apply to residential-size systems and some smaller commercial systems.

The number and value of STCs you receive depends on the system size and your location in Australia.

To be eligible for STCs, your solar system must be installed by a retailer with accreditation from the Clean Energy Council.

The installer handles all the required paperwork and STC arrangements.

How do I know if my property is suitable for solar?

Many different types of properties can be suitable for solar, including houses, units, and some apartments.

What matters most is how solar could be installed and what benefits it would deliver for your situation.

Things we usually look at include:

• whether there’s space available for panels, such as a private roof, shared roof, or common area
• sun exposure and shading throughout the day
• the condition of the existing electrical setup
• how electricity is used at the property, for example individual or shared meters

In some cases, solar may not be practical, for example if there’s very limited roof space, heavy shading, or if major electrical upgrades would be needed.

Even in more complex setups, our team will talk you through the options and any limits, so you can decide whether solar makes sense for you.

How does solar save me money?

Solar helps you save money by reducing how much electricity you need to buy from the grid.

When your solar panels generate electricity during the day, your home can use that power first instead of paying retail electricity prices.

The more of your own solar energy you use, the less you pay on your bill.

If your system produces more electricity than you’re using at the time, the extra energy can be exported back to the grid, and you may receive a credit on your bill from your electricity retailer.

Adding a battery can increase these savings by:

• storing solar energy during the day, and
• letting you use that stored energy later, such as in the evening when electricity usually costs more.

Over time, these savings can add up and help offset the upfront cost of installing solar and a battery, if you choose one.

How much you save depends on things like:

• how much electricity you use
• when you use it, day versus night
• the size of your solar system
• whether you add a battery

If you’re not sure what savings to expect for your situation, we can help explain what solar might look like for you before you decide.

How much can I save with solar panels?

How much you save depends on your home, your energy use, and how you use electricity.

Many households see a noticeable drop in their electricity bills after installing solar, especially if they use more power during the day when solar is generating.

Rather than guessing, our consultants can give you an estimate based on your specific situation.

How long do solar panels last?

Quality solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years or more.

Most come with a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing they’ll still produce at least 80 to 85% of their original output after 25 years.

What size solar system do I need?

System size depends on your electricity consumption, roof space, and budget.

Common residential sizes are:

• small homes or low usage: 3–5 kW
• average homes: 6–8 kW
• large homes or high usage: 10–13 kW

Our team will analyse your energy bills and recommend the optimal size.

Will I still have electricity bills with solar?

Usually yes, but they’re often much lower.

You’ll still be connected to the grid, so you may use grid electricity at times when your solar isn’t generating much power.

If you add a battery, you can use more of your own solar energy later in the day, which can reduce your bills even further.

What is a solar feed-in tariff?

A solar feed-in tariff is a credit on your electricity bill for any extra solar energy your system sends back to the grid.

If your panels generate more electricity than you’re using at the time, that excess power is exported and your energy retailer pays you for it.

Feed-in rates vary between retailers and plans.

Do I need council approval to install solar panels?

In most cases, residential solar installations do not require council approval.

There are some exceptions, such as heritage-listed properties or certain locations.

MAC Trade Services will advise if council approval is needed for your specific situation.

Will I need an electrical upgrade for solar?

Sometimes, especially in older properties.

Some homes may need a switchboard upgrade or minor electrical work to safely connect a solar system.

If any extra work is needed, we’ll explain why, what’s involved, and any additional costs before proceeding.

How long does solar installation take?

Most home solar installations are completed in one to two days.

Some installs can take longer if the system is more complex or electrical upgrades are needed.

After installation, your energy provider may also need to update or change your meter before the system can be switched on.

What happens to my solar system if I move house?

In most cases, the solar system stays with the property.

It can be an added feature for future buyers and may help increase the home’s appeal.

While it is technically possible to remove and reinstall a system, most people choose to leave it in place.

What maintenance do solar panels require?

Solar panels are low maintenance and designed to last for many years.

To keep them working at their best:

• occasional cleaning can help, especially in dusty areas
• a professional check from time to time is recommended

What is the warranty on solar panels and inverters?

Solar systems come with long-term warranties for peace of mind.

Typically solar panels include:

• a 10 to 15 year product warranty
• a 25-year performance warranty

Inverters usually have a 5 to 10 year warranty, with some options to extend this.

Are there rebates or incentives for solar?

Yes, the main incentive comes from the Australian Government.

Most households can access an upfront discount through the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) scheme.

In some cases, additional state-based incentives may also be available.

MAC Trade Services will help check what applies to you and include any available incentives.

Can I add more panels to my solar system later?

Often yes, but it depends on your setup.

This depends on:

• how much capacity your inverter has
• how much roof space is available
• how your current system is configured

If you think you might want to expand later, it’s often more cost-effective to install a slightly larger system upfront.

Our team can help you choose an option that works now and in the future.